Cove hopping in Devon

Endurance swimmer Rowan Clarke shares one of her favourite activities she like to do when exploring the Devon coast

Often overlooked by holidaymakers travelling to Cornwall, Devon is varied and beautiful. From the steeply-shelving shingle coves in East Devon to South Devon’s sandy bays and North Devon’s surfing havens, it’s coastline is rich in history, culture and wildlife.

There are so many sea swimming adventures to be had, especially around the English Riviera, and coves and inlets of the southern tip. Channel swimmers often head to Torbay to practice distance swimming, and round Burgh Island is one of Devon’s most iconic open water swims.

We headed east to the little fishing village of Beer close to the Dorset border. Its sheltered, pebbly beach shelves steeply, quickly taking you out of your depth into cool, crystal clear, calm water. Swimming out along the west side of Beer Beach towards Salty Cove, you’ll find Neil’s cave about 800m away, which you can swim through at high tide. 

The most southerly point of Devon is also wonderful for exploring sea caves and tiny coves unreachable by land. Near Salcombe, Soar Mill Cove is a secluded bay only reachable by foot or water. It’s a perfect spot for rockpools, caves and abundant wildlife, including seals.

Lead photo by Georgie Hiles