The region contains six major estuaries, providing crucial wintering grounds for migratory wading birds.
The Start Point Lighthouse, located on a jagged headland, has operated since 1836 to guide vessels through the treacherous coast.
The landscape is home to the Cirl Bunting, a rare songbird whose UK population is almost exclusively found in this specific coastal strip.
Slapton Ley, a large freshwater lake, is separated from the sea only by a narrow shingle bar, forming a rare geographical feature in the UK.
The area features the remains of numerous shipwrecks, including the SS Herzogin Cecilie, which ran aground at Soar Mill Cove in 1936.
The South West Coast Path runs the entire length of the National Landscape, representing the longest National Trail in the UK.
The South Devon National Landscape, formerly known as the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, covers 60 miles of protected coastline between Wembury and Brixham. It encompasses the estuaries of the Yealm, Erme, Avon, and Dart rivers, creating a landscape of deep incised valleys and mudflats. The region features a high concentration of designated heritage sites, including ancient field systems and medieval coastal villages. It is home to diverse habitats ranging from jagged slate cliffs to sheltered sandy coves and rare wildflower meadows. The area functions as a living landscape, balancing agricultural land use, conservation, and public recreation. It is formally protected under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 to conserve and enhance its natural beauty.
The elevated view looking south from the cliffs above Start Point lighthouse.
Download offline topographical maps as mobile coverage is inconsistent in the deep coastal valleys.
Check the daily tide tables before venturing onto beaches or estuary paths to prevent getting cut off by incoming tides.
Use the 'Park and Ride' facilities in nearby towns like Dartmouth or Kingsbridge during peak summer months to avoid narrow, congested country lanes.
Attempting to drive large vehicles or campervans down 'no through' country lanes which are often too narrow to pass other cars.
Practice 'Leave No Trace' principles; keep dogs on leads near livestock and cliff edges; stick to marked public footpaths to protect fragile coastal flora.
