Use the handy map to find accommodation on the South West Coast Path. There are plenty of independent hostels, bunkhouses and camping barns along the whole route meaning you are never short of a welcoming, wallet-friendly place to stay. Why not book a few nights in one place to really get to know the area?
South West Coast Path Map
The S W Coast Path is one of the most popular walking routes in the world. At 630 miles long, it is the UK’s longest National Trail. The route is maintained by the South West Coast Path Association. With help from trustees and members, they are able to restore parts of the path that are affected by storms. The Association also improves the path for walkers and wildlife alike.
Ladram Bay in Devon with the SW Coast Path skirting along the top.Why not visit Porthcurno and the Minack Theatre on your journey along the South West Coast Path?
The Southwest Coastal Path begins in Minehead, Exmoor, and follows the undulating North Devon coastline. It then plunges into Cornwall, before dipping back into South Devon, and ending up in Poole Harbour in Dorset. It passes through many beautiful tourist sites such as Ilfracombe, Tintagel, St Ives, Penzance and Falmouth.
The route is clearly signposted by an acorn symbol, just like all National Trails. The path has large sculptures marking the beginning, middle and end of the route. Why not take a picture in front of all three to document your journey?
This stunning route has become more popular since the publication of the bestselling book, The Salt Path by Raynor Winn. The Salt Path is a memoir about a married couple who walk the South West Coastal Path after having lost their home and discovering that the husband has a degenerative illness. This inspiring true story of hope and the healing powers of walking and the natural world has been made in to a feature film. Also called The Salt Path, the film is due to be released in 2024.
A misty day at St Ives harbour
Accommodation on the South West Coast Path
South West Coast Path Walks
The SW Coast Path is perfect for individuals and groups of all abilities because the path offers the best of both worlds. Even with panoramic views of the Devon and Cornwall coastline, you are never too far from civilisation whether it be a cute café, pub, quaint seaside town, or hostel accommodation.
Entire walk will take 7 to 8 weeks. It will pass through Somerset and Exmoor, North Devon, North Cornwall, West Cornwall, South Cornwall, and South Devon, which shows the variety of the South West coastline, from golden, sandy beaches to waves crashing against formidable cliffs. There are also plenty of multiple day walks for people who want a challenge but do not have time to complete the 630 mile route.
Award-winning Cohort Hostel in St Ives just minutes from the South West Coast Path
South West Coast Path is suitable for shorter strolls too. Pick from hundreds of circular walks that take advantage of the path or linear walks that take advantage of local bus services to deliver you home again. Why not book a few nights at one of our hostels on the route and explore some relaxed walks in the local area?
Based in Illfracombe, Ocean Backpackers found near the start (or end!) of the South West Coast Path
South West Coast Path Cycling
The North Devon and Cornwall Coast Path is generally not suitable for cycling. A great deal of the South West Coast Path is comprised of narrow cliff paths which would be dangerous to navigate on a bike. There are also many steep steps along the length of the route. Consequently, the trail would be unenjoyable by bike as it means there would be a lot of dismounting to push the bike up steps.
The South West Coast Path is just a few minutes’ walk away from Elmscott Hostel
