The best walks and hikes around Thurlestone

There are over 25 hiking trails around Thurlestone, offering a variety of experiences from easy coastal strolls to more challenging routes. The komoot community has explored these paths over 3,700 times.

Yes, Thurlestone offers several easy, family-friendly walks, particularly along the coast. An excellent option is the South Milton Sands – View of Burgh Island loop from Thurlestone, which is an easy 7.4 km trail passing South Milton Sands and offering views of Burgh Island. Many coastal sections are suitable for families.

Thurlestone has several popular circular routes. The Thurlestone and the coast path loop from Bantham Beach — South Devon is an easy 6.2 km loop offering coastal views. For a longer, moderate option, consider the Hope Cove Beach – Hope Cove Beach loop from Thurlestone, which connects Thurlestone with the charming village of Hope Cove.

Many trails around Thurlestone are dog-friendly, especially the coastal paths and inland routes. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly near livestock, cliff edges, and during nesting seasons in areas like the South Milton Ley Reserve. Always check local signage for specific restrictions on beaches or nature reserves.

Hiking around Thurlestone offers views of several notable natural landmarks. You'll encounter the iconic Thurlestone Rock, a unique arch formation just offshore. Many coastal paths provide views of Burgh Island, a tidal island with an Art Deco hotel. You can also visit Hope Cove Beach and South Sands Beach, or explore the wildlife-rich South Milton Ley Reserve.

The best time to hike in Thurlestone is generally from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and the days are longer. Summer offers warm weather for coastal walks and beach activities, while spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter walks can be dramatic but require appropriate gear for potentially wet and windy conditions.

While many routes are easy to moderate, Thurlestone does offer some more challenging sections, particularly along the South West Coast Path. For instance, the longer stretches towards Salcombe or Soar Mill Cove involve more significant elevation changes and rugged terrain, providing a good challenge for experienced hikers. There are 2 difficult routes recorded in the area.

Parking is available at various points around Thurlestone, including designated car parks near popular beaches like Thurlestone Beach and South Milton Sands. There are also parking facilities in nearby villages such as Bantham and Hope Cove, which serve as starting points for many coastal walks. Always check for parking fees and availability, especially during peak season.

The trails around Thurlestone are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunning coastal views, the diverse landscapes ranging from sandy beaches to rolling hills, and the iconic landmarks like Thurlestone Rock. The well-maintained paths and opportunities for wildlife spotting are also often highlighted.

Yes, Thurlestone village itself has options for refreshments, and several pubs and cafes are located in nearby villages accessible from the trails. For example, Hope Cove, a picturesque fishing village, offers places to eat and drink, making it a popular stop on longer coastal walks. Bantham also has facilities near its beach.

Public transport options to Thurlestone are limited but available. Local bus services connect Thurlestone with larger towns in the South Hams area, such as Kingsbridge, which has more extensive bus links. It's advisable to check current bus timetables in advance, especially if planning to use public transport to access specific trailheads or return from a linear walk.

Absolutely. The entire coastline around Thurlestone offers spectacular views. Key viewpoints include the areas overlooking Thurlestone Rock, the panoramic vistas from the South West Coast Path towards Burgh Island, and the dramatic cliffs around Bolt Tail. Many trails also offer scenic overlooks of the River Avon estuary and the tranquil South Milton Ley Reserve.