Now, I’m sure many of you have been to Devon, maybe it was a family camping trip as a kid, or a seaside getaway, but have you ever truly explored everything this incredible county has to offer?
I know everyone talks about the glorious sandy beaches, and don’t get me wrong I love them too, especially when we have the weather. But there’s so much more to see and do here that often gets missed. You’ll find the rugged wilderness of Dartmoor alongside the serene coves of the South Hams. Explore vibrant cities like Exeter or discover hidden, picture-perfect villages tucked away in the countryside. This certainly makes it an ideal road trip destination.
So, for when you’re planning your next trip here, I’ve pulled together my itineraries to help you make the most of your adventure. Whether you’re planning to spend five full days uncovering the best of Devon from North to South, or you’re squeezing in a short weekend stopover, you’ll find plenty of inspiration.
Devon is the perfect destination for a road trip, offering diverse landscapes and experiences all within a few hours’ drive. Here are just a few reasons why it should be on your road trip list:
It Goes Without Saying – Stunning Coastlines!
Devon is home to two dramatic coastlines, the North Atlantic-facing shores and the gentler South Devon coast. Explore golden beaches, rugged cliffs, and hidden coves, perfect for walking, swimming, or simply soaking up the scenery.
Quaint Villages and Towns
From the cobbled streets of Clovelly to the pastel cottages of Salcombe, Devon’s villages are utterly charming. Each one has its own character, filled with little shops and cosy tearooms.
Diverse Landscapes
Where else can you drive from sandy beaches to wild moorlands within an hour? Devon offers unparalleled variety, from the rolling hills of Exmoor to the granite tors of Dartmoor.
Seafood Sampling & Award-winning Pubs
Devon is a haven for food lovers. Sample fresh seafood, indulge in a proper Devon cream tea, or visit local markets bursting with produce. Don’t miss a meal at one of the many award-winning pubs or restaurants.
Outdoor Adventures
Whether you’re into hiking, cycling, surfing, or paddleboarding, Devon is packed with outdoor activities. Explore the South West Coast Path, tackle the rugged trails of Dartmoor, or kayak along the Jurassic Coast.
Family-Friendly Fun
Devon is a dream for families. Kids will love the sandy beaches, rock-pooling adventures, and family attractions like Paignton Zoo and the Donkey Sanctuary.
Accessible Yet Remote
Devon feels like an escape from the hustle and bustle, but it’s easily reachable from major cities in the UK. A road trip here offers a chance to unwind without spending hours on the road.
A blummin’ great Devon road trip! This is an ideal Monday to Friday trip where you will explore Devon from North to South from its magnificent beaches to its epic national parks. You could even look at extending it 2 or 3 days to discover more of what the South West has to offer.
|
DAY |
JOURNEY |
ACTiViTiES |
ACCOMMODATiON |
DRiVE TiME |
|
1 |
Exmoor to Clovelly |
Lynmouth & Lynton / Valley of Rocks / Ilfracombe Town & Harbour / Woolacombe Beach / Saunton Sands / Clovelly |
Hartland Caravan & Camping Park |
2 hrs 7 mins |
|
2 |
Clovelly to Bigbury |
Okehampton / Okehampton Castle / Lydford Gorge / Bigbury-on-Sea / Burgh Island |
Mount Folly Farm |
2 hrs 37 mins |
|
3 |
Bigbury to Dartmouth |
Hope Cove / Salcombe / Start Point Light House / Tor Cross / Slapton Sands / Blackpool Sands |
Dartmouth Camping & Caravanning Club Site |
1 hr 54 mins |
|
4 |
Darmouth to Dawlish |
Dartmouth & Dartmouth Castle / Totnes / Paignton Zoo (Optional allow 2-3 hrs) / Torquay / Ness Cove Beach |
Leadstone Camping |
1 hrs 30 mins |
|
5 |
Dawlish to Seaton |
Exeter / Sandy Bay Beach / Jacobs Ladder Beach / Donkey Sanctuary / Beer Beach / Seaton & Seaton Tramway |
Beer Head Caravan Park or Drive Home |
2 hrs |
If you’re short on time and looking for a quick weekend getaway, Exmoor is the perfect choice. Renowned for its coastal views, heather-covered moorland, ancient oak woodlands, deep valleys, and iconic Exmoor ponies, this area offers so much to explore.
This 2-day road trip may be short, but it packs a mighty punch. Straddling the counties of Somerset and Devon, Exmoor National Park boasts diverse sights and unforgettable locations. If you have a weekend to spare, prepare to be impressed by its natural beauty and must-see highlights.
|
DAY |
JOURNEY |
ACTiViTiES |
ACCOMMODATiON |
DRiVE TiME |
|
1 |
Tarr Steps to Lynton |
Tarr Steps / Dunster & Dunster Castle / Porlock Village / Lynton & Lynmouth + Cliff Railway |
Sunny Lyn Holiday Park |
1 hr 14 mins |
|
2 |
Lynton to Watermouth |
Watersmeet / Valley of Rocks / Heddon’s Mouth / Combe Martin & Beaches / Broadsands Beach |
Watermouth Valley Camping Park |
1 hr 17 mins |
Hopefully after read this you’re ready to hit the road! Don’t forget to check out our South West Road Trip guidebook. It’s packed with insider tips, must-visit spots, and detailed itineraries to help you plan the ultimate adventure. Additionally, for even more inspiration, head over to my YouTube channel, where we share travel guides, road trip tips, and behind-the-scenes looks at some of the South West’s most stunning locations.
Collie dog lover, keen traveler and travel guide writer. In 2022, I launched No Fuss Travel Guides with 'North Coast 500 - The Road Trip of a Lifetime' which became an Amazon best seller. I've since worked with tourism boards including Visit Wales and have been featured in The Guardian 'Best of Travel'.
Hopefully you find some value in my videos & blogs, if there's something you want to ask me, fire away.
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Rob, Staffordshire, UK
