Hope Cove guide
Coastal walks from Hope Cove
The South West Coast Path runs through the village, so walks in both directions start at the door.
West and south towards Bolt Tail
From Hope Cove, the coast path heads west and south towards Bolt Tail, the headland above the village. An Iron Age fort earthwork stands on the headland, where the route continues along the coast towards Bolberry Down and Soar Mill Cove.
Salcombe can also be reached on foot in this direction. The coastal walk takes about an hour or more, depending on the route taken. It is a longer option than the paths immediately around the village, continuing beyond Bolt Tail and along the coast.
Bolt Tail is therefore both a destination above Hope Cove and the first part of a walk continuing farther along the coast. Walkers can head towards the earthwork on the headland, continue towards Bolberry Down, or follow the coast onwards in the direction of Soar Mill Cove and Salcombe.
East towards Thurlestone and Bigbury
In the other direction, the coast path runs east towards Thurlestone and South Milton Sands. Beyond them are Bantham and Bigbury-on-Sea, with Burgh Island lying further along the coast.
The beaches and headlands make this an eastward route that can be followed as far as suits the day. Because the South West Coast Path passes directly through Hope Cove, there is no need to drive before beginning a coastal walk in either direction.
Thurlestone and South Milton Sands provide nearer points along this side of the path. Bantham, Bigbury-on-Sea and Burgh Island sit beyond them, so the same direction offers both shorter outings and a route that carries on farther along the coast.
Shorter walks and staying safe
For a shorter option, the cliff path between Inner Hope and Outer Hope links the village's two beaches. Inland, the lanes lead up the sheltered valley towards Bolberry, offering another way to set out from the village without following the longer coast path.
The cliff path is useful when moving between the two parts of Hope Cove, while the inland lanes offer a contrast to the exposed coast. Both begin in or around the village and can form a shorter outing than following the coast path towards its more distant destinations.
The coast path is exposed in places, with steep sections and unfenced drops. Walking boots and a check of the weather and tides are sensible. Distances and times vary with the route taken, so the conditions and the chosen path should shape the day's walk.
Kittiwake
Staying in Hope Cove
Kittiwake is in Inner Hope, with the South West Coast Path and the valley towards Bolberry close at hand. Return to a spacious family home after a day outside.