Salcombe - Local Info
Salcombe is located in the South Hams region on the southernmost coast of Devon, ideally located between Plymouth and Torbay, with Dartmoor within easy reach. The mild climate of the region (Hammes means ‘sheltered place’ in old english) not only allows the Overbecks gardens to flourish but also creates a Mediterranean style eco-system with many birds and plant life seldom found elsewhere in the UK. Dolphins and basking sharks are frequent visitors to the estuary. A wonderful way to see estuary life first hand is to catch the summer ferry from Salcombe to Kingsbridge, the local market town.
Salcombe is best known as a haven for water sports especially sailing; however there are many interesting attractions in the area from 14th century castles to Elizabethan houses, and tiny fishing villages to two mile stretches of beach. The towns of Totnes, Dartmouth and Plymouth are all within easy reach, as well as numerous fishing villages and interesting coves and beaches.
Wonderfully located for walkers, most of the surrounding area is owned and managed by the National Trust and classified as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There are many walking trails, ranging from a leisurely stroll to a full day hike. A popular excursion is catching the ferry across Salcombe Estuary to East Portlemouth and walking around the headland to Garra Rock for lunch. There are fantastic views back across the estuary to YHA Salcombe perched on the cliff below Bolt Head.
Salcombe town is a busy seaside town, with the main street full of shops selling essential provisions, as well as small clothes shops and boutiques. You can get takeaway fish and chips caught locally, sample Salcombe Dairy ice, have coffee and cake at a quayside café or have a meal at one of the many restaurants.
Two beaches, South Sands and North Sands lie between YHA Salcombe and Salcombe. Both beaches have café facilities and public amenities, and offer safe swimming and areas for games.
Along the coast path from YHA Salcombe to the west, there are more sandy coves within walking or driving distance and Slapton Sands, a two mile pebble beach backed by a freshwater lagoon, is just a 20 minute drive past Kingsbridge.
Further information can be found at www.salcombeinformation.co.uk, www.kingsbridgeinfo.co.uk, www.discoverdartmouth.com and www.totnesinformation.co.uk.
www.southdevonaonb.org.uk is good for walking guides and www.nationaltrust.org.uk also has valuable information about the area.
Read YHA Salcombe's Access Statement