Coastwalk , South West Coast Path

Wonwell → Bigbury-on-Sea

Distance: 4.62 miles
Ascent: 318 metres
Duration: 1 hour 58 minutes

And then there was one
« Wembury | Salcombe »

After finishing the north Devon Coast yesterday we drove right across the county to Bigbury on the south coast.

Back in August we'd intended to walk as far as Bigbury when we crossed the River Erme, but tiredness and timing got the better of us. (Besides, wading across the river was a spectacular climax to that day.) So this morning we were back at the river, looking down at the old ford. I was seriously tempted to kick my boots off and plunge into the water again.

The walk to Bigbury was easier than expected, despite a number of significant ascents. As we descended into Ayrmer Cove we started to notice canvas shelters dotted round the dunes and a large "X" made out of seaweed on the back of the beach. This was a group of men (yes, all men) on a coastal survival course. They seemed to be having a great time, but their camp looked very scraggy.

Finally we reached Bigbury where the low tide meant that Burgh Island was joined to the shore by a strand of sand.

Another day, another gap plugged, another National Trail Guide finished, a county completed. Thanks Devon, you've been beautiful. Just one gap left on the SWCP now.

Note: we stayed overnight in the Summer Winds B&B at Bigbury-on-Sea, which was excellent - it's run by very friendly people, and the breakfast was brilliant. If you're there, also look out for the Bay Cafe just along the road.