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South West Coast Path Start: Minehead - Grid Ref: SS 973462 This is by far the longest National Trail. It was opened in stages and the north and south cornish paths were the first to be established. Very few walkers would consider tackling the complete route, and in this way it is different from the other National Trails. It's popularity is due to it's accessibility, wherever you are in Cornwall; virtually all holidaymakers with an interest in walking will sample a small section of it during their stay. There are so many stretches where the dramatic coastline offers stunning views that you are unlikely to be dissapointed with any section. On the north coast the section from Tintagel, legendary home of King Arthur, to the Camel estuary and Padstow, then on to Newquay is memorable. There are a number of up's and down's where streams have cut steep valleys through the cliffs. The picturesque fishing villages of Port Isaac and Portgaverne nestle in such coombs. The fairly remote section from St. Ives to Lands End has dramatic granite cliffs pounded by the Atlantic. On the south coast the stretch from the Lizard to Falmouth which includes the Helford estuary is attractive and varied. Other highlights on the southern coast include the area around Lyme Regis with its fossil rich cliffs and The Cobb, famous for its literary associations; Bolt Head near Salcombe and the sweeping arc of Chesil Beach. Indeed there are so many attractions and such a variety of coastal scenery along the whole Trail that, with few exceptions, it is all worth exploring. If only we had more time for walking. |
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