Tiny UK beach is one of England's most beautiful and tourists don't even know it
Situated near Salcombe in South Devon and surrounded by the craggy heath and rolling green hills of the South Hams, Soar Mill Cove lies beneath the dramatic black cliffs of Bolt Head, creating a breathtaking natural setting and putting it right up there with the most beautiful beaches in the UK.
One of the most compelling reasons to visit this small, sheltered and sandy inlet is its unblemished beauty and peaceful atmosphere. However, the beach is accessible only on foot via the South West Coast Path, with the nearest National Trust car park a thirty-minute walk away, or a more taxing and much steeper trek of just over a mile from the Soar Mill Cove Hotel.
While this helps preserve its quiet and pristine environment, the lack of direct road access means you won't find crowds or commercial facilities there, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. The absence of phone signal further encourages a digital detox.
At low tide, Soar Mill Cove reveals a small area of golden sand perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles and relaxing. A gentle stream runs through the center of the beach and rock pools emerge, where you can explore marine life such as crabs and anemones.
The cove is also a haven for birdwatchers, with species including ravens, shags, kestrels and peregrine falcons often spotted in the area. Adventurous visitors can also explore some of the best sea caves in South Devon, which are located nearby.
The surrounding cliffs and coast path offer excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring, with the Bolberry Down and Soar Mill Cove circular route providing spectacular views of the South Devon coastline, as well as glimpses of local history.
For water sports enthusiasts, the cove is a favourite stop-off for those in the know, including kayakers and small boats sailing from Salcombe. The clear, sheltered sea is perfect for wild swimming and the water quality is high, making it a safe and refreshing spot for a dip.
For those interested in underwater exploration, the coastline near Soar Mill Cove offers excellent snorkelling and some of the best wreck diving in South Devon. The area is known for shipwrecks including The Maine, which divers can access by boat.
Pet owners will appreciate that dogs are welcome all year round — the beach's natural setting provides plenty of space for your four-legged friends to roam freely and without restrictions.
While the beach itself has no facilities such as toilets, lifeguards or refreshments, the nearby Soar Mill Cove Hotel offers a comfortable place to stay or enjoy a meal. The hotel serves as a convenient base for exploring the cove and surrounding countryside, where visitors can indulge in traditional Devonshire treats like cream teas featuring local delicacies.
Soar Mill Cove is a hidden gem that appeals to those who appreciate natural beauty, outdoor adventure and peaceful seclusion. Its dramatic cliffs, sandy shore, abundant wildlife and excellent walking routes combine to create a unique coastal escape, offering a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, as well as a chance to connect with the stunning South Devonshire landscape.
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