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Hope Cove circular walk |
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| Looking
back to Hope Cove from the coast path on the way to Bolt Tail |
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This
is a six mile walk taking in a stretch of the South West Coast Path
northwards from Hope Cove, and back again via the South Hams countryside. |
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The South
Devon coastline just up from the little resort of Outer Hope is dramatic
- and, at the right time of year, it's full of wildlife.
This walk was done in August, when there was plenty of birdlife to
see, as well as Devon hedgerows awash with summer fruit.
Park up at the car park in Outer Hope (there is a daily charge), and
head to the South West Coast Path signposted to Salcombe.
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| Taking
in the sea views at Bolt Tail |
After
Outer Hope, you'll reach Inner Hope, where there were lots of little
boats and visitors making the most of a rare dry August 2004 day!
You then walk up past the old lifeboat station, leaving the village
behind you.
All along this bit of coast path, there are great views back down
to Inner and Outer Hope and the coastline further south.
The coast path here is in good condition and is suitable for people
who are reasonably fit. But it's best not to get too close to the
cliff's edge, because there are clear signs of erosion.
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| The
view up the coast to Bolt Head |
You can
still get a good view of the little coves below.
At Bolt Tail, you can stop and take in the stunning sea views and
up the coast, there is more spectacular scenery to enjoy.
This
walk doesn't go as far as Bolt Head. Instead, turn off the coast path
at Bolberry Down and head off down a little hedge-lined lane to the
right of the Port Light Inn.
On the day of this walk, the hedges were packed with blackberries
and other summer fruit.
Turn left at the junction at the bottom of the lane, and carry on
until you reach a footpath signed 'Sweethearts Lane.'
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| The
countryside, with Galmpton Church on the right |
This was
a bit overgrown in August, but it was still negotiable (if you don't
mind a few stinging nettles!).
Head to Galmpton, which is signed, and walk through Galmpton churchyard.
There's
a gate in the top right hand corner which leads to a track and then
a lane.
Keep going downhill and turn left at the junction towards Thurlestone.
Here, you'll meet up again with the coast path, which takes you back
up the coast to the starting point at Hope Cove.
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| The
top of the cliffs are being eroded along this stretch, which
is home to an array of seabirds |
Just before
reaching Outer Hope, there's a little cove which in August was full
of oystercatchers, an amber-listed sea bird which visits this part
of the country during the summer.
The village has a pub and a restaurant, where you can end the walk
with a drink and a bite to eat.
There are some inclines on this six mile walk, and there are also
some stiles to climb over, so this walk is not suitable for people
with disabilities.
It takes around two and a half hours, including stops to enjoy the
views.
Article published September 2004
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