Scattered
along the coast are numerous villages ,towns and resorts,all offering
an overnight stay in
delightful settings and what could be better after a days walking
through some of the finest coastal
scenery in the U.K.
The
two walks in Torbay are of interest to the walker as they differ greatly.The
first,from Maidencombe to Torquay,is remote and peaceful whilst the
second,from Torquay to Brixham,is a more urban walk.
Maidencombe
to Torquay(7 miles)
-------------------------------
This
part of the coastline with it's tiny coves was ideal for smuggling.Numerous
inland caches were sited
at lonely farmhouses and inns where secret store-rooms were common
place. Respectable personalities favoured this lovely stretch of the
coast.Rudyard Kipling lived for a while at Maidencombe and Brunel
planned his retirement estate near Watcombe.
From
Maidencombe you will follow through to Babbacombe Bay which is nicely
protected from prevailing
westerlies.The famous model village can be reached by continuing up
the cliff and on down Cliffside road.
Further
up the coast is Hope's Nose which was very popular with the Victorian
sea-bathing fraternity. Ladies would be supplied with voluminous costumes
and towels while round the corner the gents would enjoy nude bathing
on "isolated" beaches.
Just
up from Anstey's cove is Kents Cavern.This complex system of tunnels
and caves was lived in when sabre-tooth tigers and mammoths flourished.There
are guided tours of the caves,which are open all year.
The
path continues past Meadfoot beach,through Rock End walk and down
to the picturesque harbour of
Torquay which,if timed right,can be caught at sunset and at it's most
beautiful.After a days walk the numerous pubs along the harbour are
a welcome sight and with accomodation abundant the walker can be assured
a good nights rest.
Torquay
to Brixham (7 miles)
----------------------------
Torquay
is wide promenades,palm-fringed gardens and parks,crescents and terraces
of elegant stucco-houses all amid the wooded hillsides of the Warberrys
and Lincombes.It is Devon's most sophisticated resort and gained importance
in the late 18th century during the French wars,during which it was
used extensively by the channel fleet.The lush surroundings of Torquay's
hills led officers to settle here with their families and so the future
of the town was assured.
The
route consists mainly of road walking but for the reflective walker
there are numerous off-road
diversions.Follow through to Paignton which has many attractions including
Kirkham House,Festival Hall,the aquarium on the harbourside and Paignton
Zoo.
At
Goodrington the urban nature of Torbay changes.The village has much
green space and is protected from too much seaside development by
handsome gardens to the north and countryside to the south.The resort,
however,is very popular as it has a lovely beach with safe bathing
and many rock pools.
The
walk runs along the Paignton and Dartmouth railway all the way through
to the cliffs in the southern corner of Torbay,which are covered with
wild flowers in the spring and summer.The overall mood here is one
of peace and makes a pleasant change from the urban sections of the
path.
Brixham
is a bustling place and rewards the walker with the sight of trawlers,small
boats,a busy fish market and a well situated marina.There are plenty
of spots to put your feet up,have adrink and enjoy the view.
For
more details about the coastal walks contact the
local Tourist Information Centre or click here
for maps.
0906 6801 268
Vaughan Parade
Torquay
TQ2 5JG
