From Victorian splendour to the natural delights of Slade Valley
The Tarka Trail follows the South West Coastal path into the picturesque seaside resort of Ilfracombe, then exits the town via Slade Valley passing two reservoirs before terminating at Woolacombe.
Ilfracombe is a great place for a day out. It has a beautiful, working harbour where you can take a boat trip out along the coast or over to Lundy island. Full of character, the town offers many shops to browse, cafes and bars for refreshments and hotels and guest houses for accommodation.
Attractions include the award-winning Ilfracombe Aquarium, the unique Victorian Tunnels Beaches, fascinating Ilfracombe Museum, Larkstone Leisure Park, Hele Cornmill and Chambercombe Manor, one of Britain’s most haunted houses.
The Devon Coast to Coast cycle route (NCN27) begins in Ilfracombe and follows the Tarka Trail part of the way to Plymouth. The route climbs out of Ilfracombe through the Slade Valley past two reservoirs where there is an abundance of wildlife.
On route, the Tarka Trail passes Cairn Woodland, a nature reserve and woodland walk with picnic areas and fantastic views over Ilfracombe to the sea beyond.
The area around the reservoirs and nature reserve is very picturesque and teeming with birds and wildlife and would make for an enjoyable cycle ride, walk or picnic, but you can also continue along the old railway line until it terminates at Woolacombe.
Click here for more information on Ilfracombe.
Click Here for a map of Cairn Woodland.
Cycle from Ilfracombe to Braunton