The best walks and hikes around Cotleigh

Yes, the area around Cotleigh is ideal for circular hikes. Many trails are designed as loops, so you can start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. These routes explore the rolling hills and woodlands of the Blackdown Hills AONB. A great example of a moderate loop is the View of Blackdown Hills loop from Upottery, which offers wonderful scenery.

Dogs are generally welcome on the public footpaths around Cotleigh. You'll find plenty of woodland and field paths to explore together. However, you will be walking through farmland with livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead, especially near sheep and cattle. Also, please be mindful of local signage regarding dogs.

Certainly. The region offers a number of shorter, less strenuous walks that are perfect for a family outing. These trails often have minimal elevation gain and stick to well-defined paths. For a straightforward walk with rewarding scenery, consider the View of Blackdown Hills loop from Luppitt, which is an easy route suitable for most abilities.

Many popular hikes start from nearby villages like Honiton, Upottery, or Luppitt, which typically have on-street parking or small car parks. For trails starting in more remote locations, you may find lay-bys or designated parking spots near the trailhead. It's always a good idea to check your chosen route on komoot beforehand to see the recommended starting point.

The trails within the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty are known for their variety. You can expect steep escarpments leading to high plateaus with fantastic views, ancient woodlands with carpets of bluebells in spring, and tranquil river valleys. The paths range from wide bridleways to narrow, sometimes muddy, footpaths.

Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended. The terrain can be varied, with steep sections, uneven paths, and muddy patches, especially after rain or in woodland areas like Holyford Woods. Good ankle support and grip will make your hike safer and more comfortable.

You can hike around Cotleigh year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly beautiful. In spring, the woodlands are filled with bluebells and wild garlic. Autumn offers stunning colours across the hills. Summer provides long daylight hours for extended hikes, while winter walks can be crisp and rewarding, though you should be prepared for muddy conditions.

Yes, while the area is known for easy and moderate routes, there are options for those seeking a challenge. You can find longer trails with significant elevation gain that test your endurance. For a more demanding day out, consider the St Michael's Church – Yew Trees at Farway Church loop from Honiton, a 10-mile hike with over 400 meters of ascent.

The routes around Cotleigh are well-regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the beautiful views across the Blackdown Hills, the tranquility of the ancient woodlands, and the quintessential Devonshire countryside scenery. The mix of rolling hills and quiet valleys is frequently mentioned as a highlight.

There is an extensive network of trails to explore, with over 100 different hiking routes around Cotleigh. The selection includes everything from short, easy strolls to more strenuous all-day hikes, with the majority of routes being in the easy to moderate difficulty range.

Many of the longer circular routes start or pass through villages like Honiton or Upottery, where you can find traditional pubs and cafes. These are perfect for a meal or a drink before or after your hike. It's a good idea to check opening times in advance, especially if you're hiking on a weekday.

The diverse habitats, from woodlands to river valleys, support a variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds of prey soaring over the hills, deer in the woods, and numerous smaller birds and mammals. The Holyford Woods Nature Reserve is a particularly good spot for wildlife enthusiasts, known for its birdlife and beautiful flora.