Why North Devon for Walking?
North Devon is one of the UK’s most rewarding walking destinations: dramatic coastal cliffs, long golden beaches, dunes and a mix of waymarked footpaths and National Trail sections that suit day-walkers and multi-day trekkers alike. The area includes part of the South West Coast Path, Braunton Burrows (a UNESCO biosphere reserve), and easy access to Exmoor and Dartmoor for variety beyond the shoreline.
Best Day Walks & Routes (easy to strenuous)
Below are reliable, scenic walks you can do from a single base — perfect for those who want daily adventures without moving accommodation.
- Mortehoe → Morte Point circular
Short, cliff-top route with dramatic sea views and good chances of spotting seals. Great for a morning or afternoon outing. Perfect for photographers and seal-spotters. See Visit Devon website - Woolacombe Bay to Baggy Point → Croyde (coastal circuit, ~8 miles)
A classic North Devon coastal day-hike that includes Woolacombe’s long beach, Putsborough headland, and the SSSI at Baggy Point. Expect varied terrain — beach, cliff-top and rocky promontories. See Visit Devon website - Ilfracombe → Woolacombe section (moderate, 8–9 miles)
A longer link along the South West Coast Path connecting Victorian harbour views at Ilfracombe with the sandy sweep at Woolacombe — excellent for conditioning and stunning panoramas. See All Trails website - Braunton Burrows & Velator Quay (dune and estuary walk)
If you want variety: sand-dune walking, birdlife, and sheltered estuary scenery — an interesting contrast to cliff-top exposure. Braunton Burrows is part of the UNESCO biosphere reserve. See South West Coastpath website
When to Visit & What to Pack
- Best seasons: Late spring → early autumn (May–September) for milder weather and longer daylight; early autumn (Sept–Oct) is quieter and still pleasant for walks. Expect wind on exposed headlands year-round.
- Packing essentials: layered waterproofs, sturdy boots with good grip (some cliff paths are uneven), hat + sunscreen, daypack, refillable water, snacks or packed lunch, map/GPS and a charged phone. Consider microspikes in winter on exposed paths.
- Transport & parking: Car is useful but parking can be limited in peak season — many walkers use local buses or park in council car parks (permits are available for longer stays). The Smugglers Rest can advise on local parking permits.
Why The Smugglers Rest Is the Perfect Base for Walking Holidays
If you’re planning daily walks from a fixed base, The Smugglers Rest in Mortehoe offers several practical and experiential benefits that make it ideal for walkers and small groups:
- Location: Set in Mortehoe, just a short walk from Morte Point and the South West Coast Path — you can step straight out onto the cliff-top routes without a long drive. That saves time and lets you squeeze in morning/late-afternoon walks.
- Comfort after the miles: The Smugglers Rest is a restored Victorian B&B with 8 ensuite rooms, warm interiors and homely touches — perfect for easing sore feet and relaxing after a long day. Some rooms (Hartland & Lundy) offer luxurious touches like freestanding baths for soaking.
- On-site dining: Miss Fea’s Bistro (on the ground floor) serves seasonal, locally sourced food — handy for hearty recovery meals, breakfasts-to-go and bespoke packed lunches for walkers. Opening evenings Wed–Sat; contact ahead for packed lunch options.
- Local knowledge & support: The hosts (Will & Stacey) are well placed to advise on walks, tides, weather and permit logistics (car park permits are handled at check-in), which is particularly useful for first-time visitors to the South West Coast Path.
The Perfect Private Hire Venue for Your Next Group Walking Event
Finding the perfect base is essential for a successful group trip, and The Smugglers Rest provides a stunning solution. If you are organising a multi-day hike or a walking retreat in Devon, you’ll need more than just accommodation; you need a dedicated, comfortable space that caters to groups.
The Smugglers Rest has been specifically adapted as an ideal private hire retreat venue in North Devon. Imagine returning from the coast path to a welcoming communal area, having the flexibility of a self-catered kitchen for group meals, and waking up to sea air, ready to tackle the next trail. We are ideally positioned in Mortehoe to offer immediate access to the best trails while providing the necessary privacy, tranquility, and space for reflection that a quality walking retreat venue demands.
Discover the full details on booking our exclusive venue for your next walking or wellness event.
Suggested 3-Day Walking Mini-Itinerary (based at The Smugglers Rest)
- Day 1 — Coastal classics: Mortehoe → Morte Point loop in the morning (seal-spotting), afternoon beach time at Woolacombe. Evening dinner at Miss Fea’s Bistro. visitdevon.co.uk
- Day 2 — Full day challenge: Woolacombe → Baggy Point → Croyde (pack a lunch, stop in Croyde pub for refreshment). visitdevon.co.uk
- Day 3 — Dune & estuary: Braunton Burrows & Velator Quay for a lower-impact day, good for birdwatching and photographing the dunes. Finish with easy stroll in Braunton village. southwestcoastpath.org.uk
Insider Tips
- Tide-aware walks: Some routes around headlands and beaches are tide-sensitive. Check tide times before planning long coastal circuits.
- Beat the crowds: Start early (sunrise beach walk) or head out late-afternoon on headland routes to enjoy quieter paths.
- Self-guided walking packs: Ask The Smugglers Rest to pack a picnic or recommend GPS GPX files for your phone.
Ready for a walking holiday in North Devon?
Book your stay at The Smugglers Rest — walk straight from your B&B to the South West Coast Path and return to home-cooked seasonal food at Miss Fea’s Bistro. Check availability or call 01271 870891 today.