Monday 6 October 2008 - SWCP - Bantham to Salcombe

21 km walk - 9.10 to 15.30, 900 metres ascent.

A wholesome breakfast in front of a warm Aga set us up for another windy but dry day.

Muddy farm tracks led to Bantham village, with its Sloop Inn and row of thatched fishermen's cottages, plus a picturesque boathouse just beyond.

Already surfers were plying the waves in the bay.

Luckily there were no stray balls from Thurlestone golf course, but we were nearly knocked flying by a three-legged bearded collie. Its owner was more courteous and recommended tonight's restaurant!

Hope Cove (pictured) provided today's first coffee shop. Andrew grabbed a newspaper to gain word of doom and gloom in the outside world of credit crunches and Manchester City football disasters.

After a blustery walk along Cathole Cliff, the relative shelter of Soar Mill Cove made for a suitable lunch spot, midway between the geographical extremities of Bolt Tail and Bolt Head.

More high cliffs preceded a turn north towards Salcombe, where ancient woodland coloured by blue hydrangeas provided shelter from the wind. Apparently this is a frost free zone, with one of the warmest climates in the UK.

Some hilly road walking brought us into the village, where the local surf shop was closed, displaying a handwritten note - 'Gone surfing'. Luckily the tea shop staff had not gone surfing and served delicious scones with rich Devonshire clotted cream.

A steep climb to our B&B, Rocarno, was rewarded with more tea provided by our genial hosts, Anne and Roger.

We were expected at the highly recommended Boatswain's Brasserie, having bumped into the owner earlier in the village. The food was excellent - a fishy evening involving (between us) crab, squid, scallops, brill and monkfish. A jolly place with banter between the tables and the staff, and fine food washed down with Pinot Grigio.

Next day