Route Highlight
Dawlish Warren
Locals roll their eyes at the mention of ‘The Warren’. But the unappealing swathes of chalets and amusements can be bypassed easily for the sake of a walk on the extraordinary one-and-a-half mile sand peninsula poking across the mouth of the Exe.
Beyond the beach crowds, the windy dunes are a protected haven with a visitor centre and hides for wildlife spotters. You don’t need to be an expert to marvel at the sight of thousands of wildfowl and waders on the tidal flats of the estuary, particularly over winter. On a wild day, out of season, it offers an atmosphere unlike anywhere in the southwest.
During your trip
Other Route Highlights
The Exe Estuary
If you followed our recommendations along the east side of the Exe estuary, you’ll need no persuasion to visit the west side. This is one of the southwest’s largely undiscovered gems.
TEIGNMOUTH
The promenade, sandy beach, lido and pier seem standard classic seaside offerings – but exploring a narrow maze of old streets behind them leads to one of Devon’s most bohemian spots.
TORQUAY
It’s easy to bypass the SW660’s biggest and busiest resort but we think there are plenty of reasons not to – starting with some sensational coastal driving.
DARTMOUTH
With one of the West’s best waterfronts and yachting harbours, try to approach Dartmouth from the water using one of two car ferries crossing the estuary.
