Bolberry Down Coastal Stroll

Route overview

If you want a walk that’s beautiful, gentle, and completely stress‑free, Bolberry Down is one of the South Devon coast’s best options.

Follow the route

If you want a walk that’s beautiful, gentle, and completely stress‑free, Bolberry Down is one of the South Devon coast’s best options.

Easy, Scenic & Accessible | National Trust Walk Bolberry Down Car Park,

With huge sea views, level paths, wildflowers in spring, and a simple loop that’s easy to follow, this is a perfect short adventure for families, relaxed walkers, and anyone who wants big scenery without the effort.

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📍 Route List

A). Bolberry Down National Trust Car Park (Start)

B). Coastal Path Towards Oceans Reach

C). Open Views Over Bigbury Bay & Burgh Island

D). Inland Path Along the Dry‑Stone Wall

E). Return to Car Park via Port Light Hotel

Places to Stay in Devon

🥾 Route Breakdown

A). Bolberry Down National Trust Car Park

A large, easy‑to‑navigate National Trust car park with direct access to the trail. Perfect for nervous drivers — no tight lanes, no awkward reversing, and the path begins right beside the parking area.

Vibe: Calm, open, coastal Highlight: Immediate sea views as soon as you step out of the car

B). Coastal Path Towards Oceans Reach

Follow the easy‑access trail along the edge of the road. When you reach the metal gate, bear left onto the tarmac path heading towards the sea.

Vibe: Gentle, breezy, scenic Highlight: The first glimpse of the coastline Accessibility: Smooth, level, suitable for most abilities

C). Open Views Over Bigbury Bay & Burgh Island

Continue between pockets of gorse, with the sea opening up beside you. In May, the slopes explode with spring squill, thrift, stonecrop, and kidney vetch — a wildflower lover’s dream.

As the path curves right, it becomes firm gravel and the views suddenly widen into a huge panorama of Bigbury Bay and the iconic Burgh Island.

Vibe: Colourful, uplifting, wide‑open Highlight: That “wow” moment when the coastline reveals itself

D). Inland Path Along the Dry‑Stone Wall

At the kissing gate, turn inland and follow the dry‑stone wall back across Bolberry Down. This section isn’t surfaced, but it’s level, well‑drained, and easy underfoot for most of the year.

Vibe: Quiet, sheltered, historic Highlight: Spotting the orthostats — upright stones that may date back to prehistoric field systems Fun fact: Flint scrapers, arrows, and axe‑heads from 1,500 BC have been found here

E). Return to Car Park via Port Light Hotel

The former Port Light Hotel comes into view as you complete the loop. A short stroll brings you back to the metal gate and the car park.

Vibe: Relaxed, satisfying, peaceful Highlight: A gentle finish with sea air and open skies

📏 Distance, Time & Difficulty

• Distance: ~2 km (1.2 miles)
• Time: 30–45 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Terrain: Tarmac, gravel, level grass paths
• Accessibility: Very good — suitable for families, casual walkers, and those wanting a gentle route

🌤️ What to Expect

• Huge coastal views
• Wildflowers in spring and early summer
• Level, easy paths
• A simple loop with no navigation stress
• Sea breeze, open skies, and peaceful scenery
• A perfect short walk before exploring Hope Cove or Salcombe

⭐ Summary

The Bolberry Down Coastal Loop is one of South Devon’s easiest and most rewarding short walks. With a big, simple car park, gentle paths, and huge views over Bigbury Bay, it’s ideal for anyone wanting a beautiful coastal wander without the hills. Add in wildflowers, historic features, and a breezy clifftop atmosphere, and you’ve got a perfect 30–45 minute escape.