the tamara coast to coast way guide book
The Tamara Coast to Coast Way is an 87-mile trail across Cornwall and Devon, opened in July 2023․
It stretches from Cremyll to Morwenstow, offering stunning river valleys, historic mining heritage, and diverse landscapes․
1․1 Overview of the Route
The Tamara Coast to Coast Way spans 87 miles, connecting Cremyll on Cornwall’s south coast to Morwenstow on its north coast․ Opened in July 2023, it traces the historic boundary between Cornwall and Devon, offering diverse landscapes․ The route combines river valleys, woodland paths, and coastal scenery, showcasing the region’s natural beauty and rich heritage․ It provides a unique opportunity to explore the Tamar Valley and Cornwall’s mining legacy․
1․2 Historical Significance of the Trail
The Tamara Coast to Coast Way holds deep historical importance, tracing the ancient boundary between Cornwall and Devon․ It passes through the Tamar Valley AONB and the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Heritage Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site․ The trail reflects the region’s rich industrial and cultural past, offering walkers a chance to connect with history while exploring its diverse landscapes․
Route Details
The Tamara Coast to Coast Way spans 87 miles across Cornwall and Devon, featuring diverse terrains from river valleys to coastal paths, passing through the Tamar Valley AONB and the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Heritage Site․
2․1 Start and End Points
The Tamara Coast to Coast Way begins at Cremyll on Cornwall’s south coast and concludes at Morwenstow on its north coast․ This 87-mile trail crosses into Devon, skirting Plymouth and following the Tamar River․ The route starts with a scenic ferry crossing via the Torpoint Ferry and ends with a dramatic coastal finale at Morwenstow, offering walkers a diverse journey through Cornwall and Devon’s landscapes․
2․2 Total Distance and Terrain
The Tamara Coast to Coast Way spans 87 miles (140 km), offering a mix of river valleys, woodland paths, and undulating fields․ The terrain varies from flat riverbank walks to gentle hills, with the Tamar River forming a central scenic feature․ Walkers can expect a moderate physical challenge, with some elevation changes, but the route is accessible to hikers of average fitness․
2․3 Counties Covered
The Tamara Coast to Coast Way traverses Cornwall and Devon, crossing the historic boundary between these two counties․ Starting in Cornwall, the route moves into Devon, skirting Plymouth, before returning to Cornwall’s north coast․ The trail highlights the diverse landscapes of both counties, offering a unique exploration of their shared heritage and natural beauty․
Key Sections of the Trail
The Tamara Coast to Coast Way features distinct sections, each offering unique landscapes and experiences, from river valleys to coastal panoramas, showcasing Cornwall and Devon’s diversity․
3․1 Cremyll to Bere Alston
The Tamara Coast to Coast Way begins at Cremyll on Cornwall’s south coast, crossing the River Tamar via the Torpoint Ferry to Devonport․ The route skirts Plymouth, offering views of the Tamar River, before reaching Tamerton Foliot․ From here, it follows the Tamar River Discovery Trail, blending scenic river valleys with gentle woodland paths․ The section transitions smoothly into undulating fields and woodlands near Bere Alston, marking the trail’s serene start․
3․2 Tamerton Foliot and the Tamar River
Tamerton Foliot marks a scenic section of the Tamara Coast to Coast Way, where the trail follows the Tamar River Discovery Trail․ This stretch offers picturesque river views, serene valleys, and gentle woodland paths․ Walkers can enjoy the peaceful ambiance while tracing the historic boundary between Devon and Cornwall․ The area’s natural beauty and tranquility make it a standout section of the route․
3․3 The Final Stretch to Morwenstow
The final stretch to Morwenstow concludes the Tamara Coast to Coast Way with a mix of undulating fields and woodland paths․ As walkers approach the north coast, the landscape shifts to rugged coastal scenery․ Morwenstow, with its dramatic cliffs and panoramic ocean views, offers a fitting endpoint․ The sense of accomplishment is palpable as hikers complete their 87-mile journey, taking in the breathtaking vistas of Cornwall’s northern shoreline․
Practical Information for Walkers
Accommodation options range from cozy B&Bs to camping sites along the trail․ Transportation links, including the Torpoint Ferry, connect key points, aiding walkers in accessing the route․ Essential gear includes sturdy footwear, waterproof clothing, and a map, ensuring preparedness for varying terrain and weather conditions․
4․1 Accommodation Options Along the Way
Walkers can choose from a variety of accommodations, including cozy B&Bs, charming guesthouses, and camping sites․ Many villages along the route offer convenient stays, with options to suit different budgets and preferences․ Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season․ Some accommodations are located near key access points, making it easier to resume the trail the next day․ Staying locally supports the community and enhances the hiking experience․
4․2 Transportation Links and Access Points
The Tamara Coast to Coast Way is well-connected, with regular bus services and train links near key access points like Bere Alston and Calstock․ The Torpoint Ferry provides easy crossing between Devon and Cornwall․ Walkers can also use local taxis for shorter transfers․ Parking facilities are available at start and end points, making it convenient for hikers to plan their journey․ Public transport schedules should be checked in advance, especially at weekends or off-season․
4․3 Essential Gear and Supplies
Sturdy footwear, waterproof clothing, and a reliable backpack are must-haves for the trail․ Carry a detailed map, GPS device, and compass for navigation․ Pack essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit․ Bring extra layers, a torch, and insect repellent․ Ensure your phone is charged, and consider a portable charger․ Proper gear will enhance your comfort and safety throughout the journey․
Natural Beauty and Landscapes
The trail showcases stunning river valleys, woodlands, and coastal scenery․ Walkers enjoy diverse flora and fauna, with breathtaking views at every turn․
5․1 River Valleys and Woodland Paths
The Tamara Coast to Coast Way winds through picturesque river valleys and dense woodlands, offering serene walking experiences․ The Tamar River forms a central feature, with its tranquil flow and lush surroundings․ Woodland paths provide shade and glimpses of diverse flora and fauna․ The trail also passes through the Tamar Valley AONB, known for its natural beauty and historic charm, creating a perfect blend of nature and heritage․
5․2 Coastal Scenery and Panoramic Views
The trail’s coastal sections offer breathtaking panoramas, with rugged cliffs and golden beaches dominating the horizon․ Starting at Cremyll and ending at Morwenstow, walkers are treated to dramatic ocean vistas․ Panoramic views from higher elevations reveal the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean and the intertwining coastlines of Cornwall and Devon, creating unforgettable moments for hikers along this diverse route․
5․3 Wildlife and Flora
The Tamara Coast to Coast Way is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers․ The trail features diverse flora, including wildflowers in river valleys and ancient woodland species․ Otters, kingfishers, and seabirds are common sightings, while the Tamar Valley AONB and coastal areas host unique ecosystems․ This route offers a chance to experience South West England’s rich biodiversity up close, making it a nature lover’s paradise․
Cultural and Historical Highlights
The Tamara Coast to Coast Way offers a rich tapestry of cultural and historical significance, showcasing the Tamar Valley AONB and the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Heritage․
6․1 The Tamar Valley AONB
The Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a cornerstone of the Tamara Coast to Coast Way, offering breathtaking river-valley landscapes and historic charm․ Walkers can explore ancient woodlands, picturesque villages, and remnants of Cornwall and Devon’s shared heritage․ The AONB’s diverse ecosystems and scenic vistas make it a highlight of the trail, blending natural beauty with cultural significance․
6․2 The Cornwall and West Devon Mining Heritage
The Cornwall and West Devon Mining Heritage is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing the region’s industrial past․ The trail passes through abandoned mines, engine houses, and historic mining communities, offering a glimpse into the area’s tin and copper mining legacy․ This section of the Tamara Coast to Coast Way highlights the human endeavor and archaeological richness that shaped the local landscape and culture․
6․3 Local Villages and Their Stories
The villages along the Tamara Coast to Coast Way are steeped in history and charm․ Each village, like Tamerton Foliot and Bere Alston, offers unique stories, from ancient churches to tales of smuggling and mining․ These communities provide walkers with a chance to experience local traditions, enjoy homemade cuisine, and gain insights into the lives of those who have shaped the region over centuries․
Challenges and Considerations
The Tamara Coast to Coast Way presents challenges like undulating terrain, unpredictable weather, and navigation demands, requiring hikers to be well-prepared with sturdy footwear and clear maps․
7․1 Physical Demands of the Trail
The Tamara Coast to Coast Way is an 87-mile trail requiring hikers to navigate undulating terrain, including river valleys, woodlands, and coastal paths․ The route demands stamina and endurance due to its length and varied landscapes․ Walkers should be prepared for uneven ground, occasional steep inclines, and unpredictable weather conditions, making sturdy footwear and physical fitness essential for a successful journey․
7․2 Weather Conditions and Best Times to Walk
The Tamara Coast to Coast Way experiences varied weather, with frequent rain and mist, especially in autumn and winter․ Spring and summer offer milder conditions, making them ideal for hiking․ Walkers should check forecasts regularly and be prepared for changing conditions․ The best times to walk are from April to October, ensuring drier paths and longer daylight hours for a more enjoyable experience․
7․3 Navigation Tips and Potential Hazards
Navigation requires a map and compass, as GPS signals can be unreliable in remote areas․ The path varies from well-defined trails to less clear sections, so attention to signage is crucial․ Hazards include muddy terrain, uneven ground, and overgrown sections․ Sturdy footwear is essential, and walkers should stay alert for trip hazards․ Downloading GPS routes beforehand is recommended, and informing someone of your itinerary is advised for safety․
The Future of the Tamara Coast to Coast Way
The trail is expected to grow in popularity, with ongoing improvements and conservation efforts ensuring its sustainability for future generations of hikers․
8․1 Ongoing Developments and Improvements
Efforts are underway to enhance signage and expand accessible sections of the trail, ensuring a smoother experience for hikers while preserving the route’s natural beauty․
8․2 Growing Popularity and Community Impact
The Tamara Coast to Coast Way has gained significant attention since its opening, attracting hikers worldwide and boosting local economies through increased tourism․
Local businesses, such as accommodations and cafes, are benefiting from the influx of walkers, fostering community growth and pride in the region’s heritage․
8․3 Conservation Efforts Along the Route
The Tamara Coast to Coast Way has sparked conservation initiatives, enhancing protection of natural and historical sites along its path․
Local authorities and organizations collaborate to maintain the Tamar Valley AONB and Cornwall’s mining heritage, ensuring sustainable tourism practices․
Volunteer groups assist in trail maintenance, while educational signage raises awareness about preserving the region’s biodiversity and cultural landmarks․
The Tamara Coast to Coast Way offers a unique 87-mile journey through diverse landscapes and rich heritage, from Cremyll to Morwenstow․
A must-explore trail for nature lovers and history enthusiasts, promising unforgettable experiences and connections with Southwest England’s natural beauty․
9․1 Final Thoughts on the Trail’s Appeal
The Tamara Coast to Coast Way captivates with its breathtaking diversity, blending river valleys, woodland paths, and coastal panoramas into an unforgettable hiking experience․
Its rich historical and natural heritage, along with its immersive journey through Cornwall and Devon, makes it a must-explore trail for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and tranquility alike․
9․2 Encouragement for Future Hikers
Embark on the Tamara Coast to Coast Way for an unforgettable journey through Cornwall and Devon’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage․
With its well-marked trails and breathtaking vistas, this route offers a rewarding challenge for hikers of all levels, promising unforgettable memories and a deep connection to nature and history․