Bolt Head to Bolt Tail Coastal Walk

The coast path between Bolt Head and Bolt Tail traces one of the most dramatic stretches of the South Devon coastline near Salcombe, with 576 m of cumulative climbing packed into a 9.7 km circuit that undulates constantly between headlands. The route follows the South West Coast Path across exposed clifftops where the Atlantic crashes against the rocks below, through coastal scrub and rough grassland, with far-reaching views across the open sea. The two headlands that bookend the walk are genuinely impressive, with sheer drops and the kind of raw, windswept landscape that makes you feel properly at the edge of things. The inland return leg passes through gentler farmland before dropping back to the coast.

This is a dog friendly walk that demands real fitness from both dog and owner. The constant ascents and descents add up to serious climbing over the full distance, and the clifftop paths are unfenced in places with significant drops, so dogs need reliable recall or a lead near the edges. Off-lead potential is moderate on the open coastal sections, though livestock graze the surrounding fields and leads should be carried throughout. There is limited water access along the clifftop, so carrying water is essential. The rough, uneven terrain suits dogs comfortable on natural ground, and the sustained effort will tire most dogs properly. A walk for days when you want coastal drama and a genuine physical challenge rather than a gentle stroll.