Guest Blog Post – Mickeldore*
Walking is one of the best ways to truly experience the place without leaving a carbon footprint. With the rhythmic crunch of gravel underfoot and fresh coastal breeze on your face, you can slow down your life. However, at the same time, walking holidays can provide you with a sense of adventure and connect you with nature.
Unlike fast-paced travel, walking holidays can provide you with an opportunity to soak in the scenery, sights and sounds. You also get the opportunity to learn more about the place’s past and explore unknown attractions. Nestled along the stunning South Devon coastline, Dartmouth is a walker’s paradise.
With its breathtaking coastal views, rolling countryside and rich heritage you can discover its beauty on foot alone or with family. Whether you are an avid hiker or a casual stroller, with Mickledore you can focus on exploring Dartmouth’s natural wonders, rich heritage and picturesque landscapes.
However, you must have clarity on knowing about some of the scenic walking trails that can help you experience Dartmouth’s outdoor beauty.
South West Coast Path
One of the most popular walking trails that pass through Dartmouth is a section of South West Coast Path. This path offers amazing coastal scenery that would allow you to make the most of your walking holidays. With views of rolling hills and stunning landscapes over the English Channel, you can have a good time as you walk through this well-marked path. While you are exploring the South West Coast Path you also get to discover Britain on foot and know more about its history, nature and geography. The entire length of the path in the Dartmouth section is approximately 10 miles (16 km). The trail is moderately challenging and therefore you need to have the right gear and mindset to enjoy it. However, as you walk you get to enjoy panoramic views of the Dart estuary and the open seas.
Slapton Sands and Slapton Ley Nature Reserve
If you are looking for a walking holiday that takes you through some of the beautiful landscapes in South West England you should explore Slapton Sands and Slapton Ley Nature Reserve. This walking trail is approximately 4 miles (6.4 km) but can provide you with amazing views and walking experiences.
The trail is moderately challenging making it a good option for first-time hikers as well. It also allows you to walk through Devon’s most important wildlife sites and explore the local flora and fauna. Walkers get to walk through diverse landscapes including wetlands, wooded areas and beaches. If you love to walk and explore local nature and wildlife, this is one of the best walking trails in Devon that you should add to your itinerary.
Gallants Bower and Jawbones Hill
If you are looking for an easy walking trail in and around Dartmouth you would want to focus on Gallants Bower and Jawbones Hill. This trail offers you stunning panoramic views of the River Dart that keep you refreshed throughout the journey.
With just 2 miles (3.2 km) in length, this is a great walking trail for those who want to enjoy a day out in Dartmouth. The trail begins from Dartmouth and leads all the way up to Gallants Bower, a hill with commanding views of the town and the River Dart. On the way, you pass through lush woodlands and open grassy areas which are ideal for nature photography. With some nature phone photography tips, you can click some amazing images of your walking expedition.
Dartmouth Castle to Sugary Cove
When you are in Dartmouth you can always look out for historic sites that would reveal more about the site’s past. Dartmouth has various historical landmarks and if you are planning a walking holiday you can take a trail from Dartmouth Castle to Sugary Cove.
This 1.5 mile (2.4 km) allows you to enjoy easy coastal views of the River Dart and the English Channel. You also get the opportunity to walk through grassy paths and head to clifftop areas that offer panoramic views of the area.
Eventually, you can head to Sugary Cove which is a peaceful beach area ideal for a break. This path is ideal for families who would like to go out for an outdoor holiday.
Dartmouth to Blackpool Sands
One of the best coastal walks that you can explore when you are in Dartmouth is to head from the town to Blackpool Sands. If you haven’t tried walking holidays before this is a great trail to start with. The path is fairly moderate and stays mostly flat. This means that you can walk the distance from the town to the beach.
As you walk the entire 4 miles (6.4 km) you will meander through cliffs and flat tracks which eventually allow you to enjoy open coastal views. You also get to enjoy the lush greenery of South Devon and make the most of your holidays.
Once you arrive at Blackpool Sands you can enjoy the beach time alone or with your family and loved ones. This walking trail allows you to experience one of the best beaches in Devon. Hence, this walking trail is ideal for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike.
Dartmouth to Kingswear Castle
While this walking trail does require you to take the ferry across to Kingswear it can still offer you amazing walking experiences. You can start your journey from Dartmouth and walk through the town all the way to the ferry. Once on the other side of River Dart, you get to enjoy scenic countryside paths.
The trail length is approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) and it allows you to walk through some of the quiet woodlands and expansive views of the Dart estuary. This is a great walking trail for those who want to take a break from their hectic schedule and look for a peaceful yet picturesque route. The path is mostly flat and therefore relatively easy even for first-time hikers.
Little Dartmouth Circular Walk
If you are looking for a loop you can make use of the Little Dartmouth Circular trail. This allows you to walk through some of the quiet corners of South Devon. Walkers get to walk from the town and head to the village of Little Dartmouth and take the coastal paths ahead.
As you walk through the relatively moderate path you can enjoy breathtaking views of the River Dart and expansive views of the coastline. Walkers can also walk through scenic woodlands and lush green scenery. You can enjoy your time at Compass Cove Beach before you head further to complete the trail. This walking trail allows you to enjoy a blend of nature, tranquillity and amazing coastal scenery.
