Beautiful car routes in Devon: 10 phenomenal roads
April 11, 2025
Devon, located in southwest England, is a land of extraordinary scenery, where picturesque coastlines meet green hills and charming villages. It's the perfect place for an unforgettable road trip to discover the region's hidden treasures. In this article, we will present 10 of the most beautiful car routes in Devon that will provide an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and driving enthusiasts alike. Each of these roads offers unique attractions, breathtaking views and opportunities to experience the local culture. Whether you're planning a family vacation, a romantic weekend for two, or a solo road trip for inspiration, Devon has something to offer for everyone. Get ready for a journey through rugged cliffs, green valleys, historic towns and hidden beaches. Here's our guide to 10 of the most phenomenal car routes in Devon that will make you fall in love with this unique corner of England.
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Coastal routes: From North Devon to East Devon
Start our journey with two remarkable conservation areas: the North Devon National Landscape and the East Devon National Landscape. These two trails offer unforgettable coastal views and are ideal for nature lovers and landscape photography.
The North Devon National Landscape, known for its spectacular cliffs and pristine beaches, offers a route full of breathtaking views. The route through this area provides panoramic views of the Celtic Sea and picturesque valleys. It is worth stopping in the charming town of Croyde, where there is an information desk. According to traveler reviews, it's 'a worthwhile place' with 'cool places to relax with the family'. This route received a rating of 4.8/5, indicating its high attractiveness.
Moving east, you will reach the East Devon National Landscape. This route offers remarkable views of the 'red cliffs' and numerous walking opportunities. One traveler describes this place as offering 'great views' and 'a large number of walking routes.' Of note is the beachfront parking, which costs £0.50 per half hour (as of 2023). East Devon also enjoys a high rating of 4.8/5.
Continuing our coastal journey, we can't skip the Valley of Rocks - an unusual place where the mountain climate combines with the sea breeze. This route, rated 4.9/5, offers 'spectacular views' and is accessible even to families with children. One traveler describes: "A beautiful, unusual place, a combination of mountain climate and sea breeze. The view is breathtaking.
The next point on our itinerary is High Peak, offering "super views and places to walk. This route, with a rating of 4.8/5, takes you through varied terrain, from beach to wooded slopes. Note that some sections can be steep and challenging, but the reward is 'fantastic views.
The last point in this section is the National Trust - Morte Point. This place, rated 4.9/5, offers 'spectacular scenery and rock formations.' This route is ideal for nature and photography enthusiasts. Be aware of the cost of parking (£10 per day in 2023), but parking is free for National Trust members.
Each of these routes offers unique experiences and views that will linger in your memory. From the rugged cliffs of North Devon to the red rocks of East Devon, these routes showcase the diversity and beauty of Devon's coastal landscape.
Inland: Discovering Devon's hidden gems
Leaving the coast, we delve into the heart of Devon, where equally fascinating routes await. The first item on our list is Hooken Cliffs, rated 4.8/5. This route offers 'a beautiful place' with 'plenty of paths to explore.' One traveler describes: 'I walked from Branscombe beach along the path under the cliff and then up to join the upper path to Beer, where the other half picked me up from the Anchor Inn. The colors of the cliffs in this area are magnificent.''
Another attraction is the Teign Valley Classic Circuit, with a rating of 4.7/5. This route offers 'great views' and is ideal for nature lovers. One tourist notes, "It strikes you with great views with wild ponies and a beautiful forest walk along the river. This is a great option for families who want to combine driving with beautiful walks.
We can't leave out Crow Point, a place rated 4.7/5. This tour leads to a 'magical and unreal' place with 'great beaches and views.' It is worth remembering the parking fee (£2.50 for a full day in 2023). One traveler describes: 'Crow Point is more than impressive. You can find a beach, sand dunes and even a shipwreck.
Moving south, we arrive at Blackpool Sands, rated 4.5/5. It's a "great place to relax" with a "clean pebbly beach. It's worth remembering to pay for parking (£6 per day in 2023). The site offers good facilities, including restrooms and a café.
The final spot in this section is the Hartland Devon Heritage Coast, with a rating of 4.7/5. This tour offers a 'rugged and dramatic coastline' and 'many hard-to-reach nooks and crannies.' One traveler describes: 'Beautiful area. The route there follows narrow country roads.
Each route offers a unique experience, from peaceful valleys to dramatic cliffs. The differences in accessibility and amenities are worth noting. For example, Blackpool Sands offers full facilities, while Hartland Coast is more wild and untamed. Teign Valley Circuit is ideal for families with children, while Hooken Cliffs can be more challenging for less experienced hikers. Crow Point offers a unique experience of sand dunes and a shipwreck, which may be particularly appealing to history and adventure enthusiasts.
When planning your route, consider not only the beauty of the scenery, but also the availability of parking, restrooms and places to eat. Each of these routes has its own unique character and offers unforgettable views that will make your Devon trip truly special.
Summary: Planning the perfect Devon road trip
After reviewing the 10 most beautiful car routes in Devon, it's time for a recap and some practical tips to help you plan the perfect trip.
First of all, it's worth noting the variety of routes offered. From the coastal roads of the North Devon National Landscape and East Devon National Landscape, to the scenic Valley of Rocks and High Peak, to hidden inland treasures such as the Teign Valley Classic Circuit or the Hartland Devon Heritage Coast, each route has its own unique character and attractions.
When planning your trip, there are several factors to consider:
- time: some routes, such as the Teign Valley Classic Circuit, may take a full day, while others, such as Blackpool Sands, may be ideal for a shorter stop.
2 Accessibility: Routes vary in difficulty level. For example, Valley of Rocks is described as accessible for families with children, while Hooken Cliffs can be more challenging.
3 Facilities: It's worth checking the availability of parking, restrooms and places to eat. For example, Blackpool Sands offers full facilities, while on more desolate routes, such as the Hartland Devon Heritage Coast, facilities may be limited.
4 Cost: Some sites, like the National Trust-owned Morte Point, require a parking fee (£10 per day in 2023), while others, like Crow Point, are cheaper (£2.50 per full day in 2023).
- weather: Devon is famous for its changeable weather, so be prepared for different weather conditions.
In terms of recommendations, for families with children, we recommend a route through the North Devon National Landscape, with a stop at Valley of Rocks and ending at Blackpool Sands. This route offers a variety of landscapes, easy to follow sections and good facilities.
For nature and photography enthusiasts, the route through the East Devon National Landscape, Hooken Cliffs and Hartland Devon Heritage Coast will be an ideal choice. These places offer spectacular views and opportunities to interact with wildlife.
If you're looking for tranquility and less traveled areas, consider a route through the Teign Valley Classic Circuit and Crow Point. These places offer a unique experience away from the crowds.
Remember that Devon is a region best explored slowly, enjoying every moment and view. Don't try to see everything at once - it's better to focus on a few select routes and fully appreciate them.
Finally, we encourage you to travel responsibly. Respect nature, obey local laws and regulations, and try to leave only footprints behind. Devon is a special place that deserves our care and respect.
Whichever route you choose, Devon is sure to enchant you with its beauty, variety of landscapes and hospitality. We wish you an unforgettable experience on the roads of Devon!
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