With its rolling hills, spectacular hedgerows and dramatic coastline, South Devon retains its charm with warmth. For touring, there are many quiet lanes with few motorists so there is time to enjoy the scenery. The route below is 50 miles and takes in the southern tip of Dartmoor down to the coast and back. It is 5,300ft climbing with frequent short hills, some of which are quite steep
My start was Ivybridge and I followed back lanes to South Brent and on to Diptford. The Cobbly Way is worth a little detour at Avonwick because of its historic cobble track beside the River Avon. For a short while, the route follows the line of the old Primrose Railway which many local people want to see reopened as a cycle trail. I leave it at Diptford but see it again on the return journey at Gara Bridge.
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| Cobbly Way |
In April and May, the hedgerows are alive with wild flowers with primroses, bluebells, wild garlic and wild campion among others. At Slapton, the sea comes into view and there is a great panorama looking back from where I have come using NCN28 about 400m west of Torcross
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| Slapton Ley |
There are several places for refreshments. The onward route via East Prawle takes in some picturesque tidal creeks. I now head north through Sherford, Gara Bridge, California Cross, Brownston and Sheepham. I found it of interest seeing two of the old railway stations on the Primrose Line, now converted into houses. These, along with quaint hamlets, old pubs, historic farms and much more would not be seen without trying these byelanes
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Frogmore Creek
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