The gentlemen morning drinker is better served at 'Spoons
Another perfect walk from Komoot. Mrs M goes as far as to say it is her "walk of the year". Interesting, as a variation of the route won a similar accolade back in the dark covid days of 2020.
Today, we battle the "lanes" of the South Hams to start at East Soar National Trust Car Park. Not the official South West Coast Path (we follow this on the way back, underneath our current position) but fine views in all directions.
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| Looking up the estuary to Salcombe |
Beautiful woodland walking through Overbecks brings us to a decision point. We know the beach at South Sands is not "dog-friendly". We also know that it is our only potential refreshment stop - having ignored the honesty tea and coffee facilities at Soar Farm. We decide a view of the Salcombe Castle ruins is worth the effort. And what an inspired decision that was.
At the first A-board with the word "bar", we head down a steep slope to what turns out to be the South Sands Hotel. A stunning terrace, overlooking the beach. Other patrons? Drinking champagne out of the required chalice. Fear not, their kids have Aston Villa tops on, so it ain't that posh.
Mrs M sends me off to order a flat white. I ask if she is sure, as I am going for a cool, refreshing beer. As is the wont of all women, she says that she will just have some of mine. It may be 9:45 am, but we have been up hours and time works differently when you are on holiday. Alas, their licence only covers them for residents until 10:30 am. Villa parents look smug with their pinkies out, as I contemplate googling the nearest 'spoons.
All is not lost. The coffees were delicious and no more than Starbucks, as Rockerfella Mrs M points out to me.
And what a view - the castle, a fort and a sea tractor that we both agree will never make it across the estuary.
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| Transpires the tractor is just a jetty and passengers disembark to a proper boat |
Refreshed, we tear ourselves away for what is possibly the best walking of all of the SWCP. The climb to Bolt's Head is proper Lord of the Rings territory. The sea views can be taken for granted but the gnarly rock formations are something a little different.
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| Mrs M and Ziggy |
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| A seaward facing retaining wall for safety |
Another route added to the "South Hams Must Be Walked" list. If we come next year, no planning will be required.
Walk Details
Distance - 5 miles
Geocaches - 2
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