Walks in & around Salcombe
Our favourite routes through the South Hams, from gentle estuary strolls to dramatic clifftop adventures along the South West Coast Path.
All Walk Start Points
All 14 walk start points marked on the map — click any pin to see the walk name and get directions.
Walks Around Salcombe
6 routesSnapes Point & Batson Creek
A short, peaceful stroll through countryside alongside Batson Creek, with wonderful estuary views from Snapes Point. Perfect for families, dogs and those wanting a gentle introduction to Salcombe's natural beauty. Passes a welcoming dog-friendly pub along the way.
East Portlemouth & Mill Bay
Take the foot ferry from Salcombe to East Portlemouth and follow the coastal path along the eastern shore. Turquoise waters, white sand beaches and stunning views back across to Salcombe town make this one of the most beautiful easy walks in South Devon.
Salcombe to Bolt Head
A spectacular circular walk exploring the mouth of the estuary and the dramatic headland at Bolt Head. Ravens, buzzards and occasional dolphins accompany you above craggy cliffs. In spring the hedgerows burst with wildflowers and is one of the classic South Devon coastal walks.
Soar Mill Cove via Bolt Head
An extension of the Bolt Head walk taking in the hidden beach at Soar Mill Cove, one of South Devon's most unspoilt coves, accessible only on foot. The National Trust has a wheelchair-friendly section of path. Look out for early purple orchids and pink thrift on the cliffs.
Gara Rock from East Portlemouth
A lovely circular walk on the eastern side of the estuary following the coastal path to Gara Rock before returning through peaceful woodland to Mill Bay. Take the ferry from Salcombe to start, a straightforward navigation with spectacular views throughout.
Salcombe to Start Point
A spectacular and demanding stretch of the South West Coast Path following rugged cliffs and hidden coves. Rewards experienced walkers with some of South Devon's most dramatic coastal scenery and views stretching to the horizon. Return by taxi or arrange a car shuttle.
South Hams & Beyond
8 routesBurgh Island Walk
Walk out to the iconic Burgh Island at low tide across the sand bar, exploring the art deco hotel and the Pilchard Inn before the tide turns. One of South Devon's most distinctive and memorable short walks with wonderful views across Bigbury Bay.
Hope Cove & Bolberry Down
Beginning in the beautiful village of Hope Cove, this walk circles Bolt Tail headland with its Iron Age hill fort before climbing to the open grasslands of Bolberry Down. Extensive sea views, popular beaches and a welcoming pub in Hope Cove to finish.
Bolberry Down
A straightforward and hugely rewarding National Trust walk across the open clifftop grasslands of Bolberry Down, with sweeping views along the coast towards Bolt Tail and beyond. Excellent for families and wonderful at any time of year.
Avon Estuary Walk
A lovely circular walk exploring both sides of the beautiful Avon Estuary, taking in the villages of Bantham and Aveton Gifford. Watch kingfishers along the river and enjoy wide views across the estuary to the sea. A hidden gem of the South Hams.
Prawle Point Coastal Walk
Prawle Point is the southernmost tip of Devon, and this walk takes you around one of the most dramatic and unspoilt sections of the South West Coast Path. Rare wildlife, wildflower meadows and exhilarating clifftop views, a truly special walk.
Start Point & Hallsands
A dramatic circular walk taking in Start Point lighthouse and the haunting ruins of the lost village of Hallsands, destroyed by the sea in 1917. Exposed clifftops, incredible views across Start Bay, and one of Devon's most remarkable pieces of coastal history.
Dartmouth Castle & Blackstone Point
A beautiful walk from Dartmouth following the South West Coast Path to the historic castle at the mouth of the Dart estuary. Superb river and sea views, a fascinating castle to explore, and the option of a ferry back into Dartmouth to complete the day.
Kingsbridge Estuary Path
A gentle and picturesque walk along the shore of the Kingsbridge-Salcombe estuary, one of Devon's most beautiful and wildlife-rich waterways. Herons, egrets and wading birds accompany you along the waterside path through peaceful creekside scenery.
Explore Salcombe on foot
After your walk, visit us at 5 Fore Street or browse our full collection online
Shop our candlesThis guide is brought to you with love by The Salcombe Candle Company · salcombecandlecompany.com · 5 Fore Street, Salcombe TQ8 8BY
