Walkers on England’s 630-mile South West Coast Path have 19th century coastguards and customs men largely to thank for the stunning cliff- and beach-hugging route that runs from Minehead in Somerset, along the coasts of Devon and Cornwall to finish at Poole Harbour in Dorset.

Coastguard paths in smuggler-infested areas were subsequently linked together and added to create a classic walking experience that encompasses diverse sea and coastal landscapes.

Moods vary from crashing Atlantic breakers beneath towering cliffs on the north coast, sub-tropical gardens on the gentler, more sheltered south coast, and a quality of light and shade that has attracted artists for generations. The path passes through two Unesco World Heritage Sites—the Jurassic Coast in Dorset and East Devon and the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape—plus five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, 17 Heritage Coasts, and a National Park.

This is no walk on the beach, however. The down and up climbs to and from every river and stream that make their way to the sea means the total height climbed is equivalent to four Mount Everests! Quaint fishing villages and more substantial surfing and beach resorts offer the full range of accommodation and, from this year, a baggage moving service is available along the whole length of the path.

Walking vacation experts since 1984, British-founded and -owned The Wayfarers offers hiking vacations with an emphasis on culture and fitness, exclusive entrées into homes and gardens otherwise closed to the public, graceful accommodations, outstanding cuisine, and meetings with local residents. Walks are rated easy to energetic and span 14 countries, ranging from 5 to 12 days. The Wayfarers is proud to be a member of Trusted Adventures, an alliance of independently owned and operated small adventure travel companies recognized for their mission to provide the finest active vacations around the world.

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