The South West Coast Path is one of the finest and best Organized Walks in the WorldThe South West Coast Path, where else in the world could you choose that would offer you such spectacular views from 630 superb miles of coastal walking?
Beauty is everywhere from flowers, birds, (a twitcher's paradise) butterflies and insects to plants and tropical gardens abound for such is the generally mild climate on the southern coastalregion that it would almost seem like a spring paradise all-year-round. For 3/4 of its length, the Coast Path journeys through protected landscapes – one National Park and five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty,
As you walk the South West Coast Path you will recognize the distinctive character of different areas. The coastline between Exmouth in East Devon and Studland in Dorset has been designated a natural World Heritage Site; called the Jurassic Coast it stretches for 95 miles 150 km The coastal landscapes are as much a part of the story as the rocks themselves, and reflect the action of the elements on the varied geology over millions of years. Stunning coastal scenery goes hand in hand with the South West Coast Path. Walking around the sea borders of four counties, Dorset, Devon, Cornwall and Somerset you will experience such dramatic changes in scenery and landscapesthat it would seem only dreams could create such splendor. On the North coasts you will experience bold, dramatic rugged coastlines with rolling surf, a surfers paradise at Newquay and Bude intertwined with golden sands as the Atlantic sea changes to the Bristol Channel. And along the southern coast the cliffs are perhaps a little less dramatic but nevertheless an equal in all ways Depending upon which way you chose to walk although officially it starts at Minehead in Somerset and finishes at Studland which is the west side of the entrance to Poole harbour, the second largest natural harbour in the world, you are rewarded with the most spectacular of views which ever way round you chose to walk it. The South West Coast Path is perhaps the UK’s ultimate challenge for the long distance walker - a 630-mile adventure around the coastline of the southwest peninsula. is perhaps the UK’s ultimate challenge for the long distance walker - a 630-mile adventure around the coastline of the southwest peninsula. From Minehead on the edge of the Exmoor National Park all the way to the shores of Poole Harbour, it is simply the best way to enjoy our wonderful coastline, its scenery, wildlife and history. One moment you can be on the cliff tops enjoying views that people would die for. Then as you start to descend suddenly before your eyes lies the most romantic of pretty villages you could ever wish to see. Set around a little cove are the fisherman's cottages clinging onto the hill side whilst their fishing boats bob eagerly in the harbour waiting for their next adventure out into the Atlantic waters.
The route is peppered with accommodation offering all standards of comfort and services. For those stepping out on their first long-distance adventure there is no finer place to chose. If you feel that you can only manage 5 miles then that is OK as the next point of interest is not that far away and if carrying a Rucksack is a bit daunting then many of the hostelries will transport you baggage on to the next point of call for your night stay if you ask them to. The South West Coast Path is a brilliant place to enjoy wildlife - walking the edge between land and sea you get the best of both worlds. You’ll encounter many different habitats as the Path passes through woodland, scrub, heath or grassland and beside sand dunes, shingle ridges, estuaries, salt marsh and rocky shores. You want it all? you can have it here. but don't forget to take some stout boots and sensible clothing Return to Travel If you really are serious about walking away those excess pounds and expanding your horizons then give those thighs of yours a good stretching and get out there on this most wonderful of routes. If you do not have a trail map to hand then why not plan a route with our Map-My-Walk It' a terrific way to plan your hiking adventure on the South West Coast Path. Visit The New Forest one day it is a beautiful place to wander about, a bit.
Swanage A lovely place to start or finish.
Walking, what a way to travel. |
One third is owned and cared for by the National Trust the keepers of that other near-by world famous park The New Forest in neighbouring Hampshire another walkers paradise.
If you want to experience long distance walking the easy way then this has to be the way to go.