FROM COAST TO coast…

Dramatic cliffs, lush countryside and traditional seaside towns line the South West Coast Path. Tanya Pearey visits Devon and Cornwall for a walk on the wild side

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Whatever the season, who can resist a coastal walk? Sunshine and sea spray on bare arms in summer. A bracing breeze to re-energise in winter. But whether you finish your stroll with a cooling ice cream or a warming latte, you’ll be working wonders for your physical and mental health.

Research shows that walking is great for well-being. It builds strength, balance and muscle mass, lowers blood pressure, helps heart and lung health, and reduces your risk of a host of chronic illnesses.

Walking in awe-inspiring surroundings is even better for emotional health. Experts have known for years that exercising in nature boosts our mood, but taking a “wow” walk can increase positive emotions, such as compassion and gratitude, according to recent research by the University of California in San Francisco.

There’s plenty of“wow” to be had walking the South West Coast Path. It stretches for 630 miles with awesome coastal and countryside views, running through the heart of seaside towns, tracing the outline of the south-western limb of the country.

Starting from Minehead, a family holiday spot in Somerset, and finishing at the sheltered waters and golden beaches of Poole Harbour in Dorset, the UK’s longest National Trail takes in the entire Devon and Cornish coastlines. I head for two separate sections of the path on opposite sides of the peninsular – Torquay in Devon and Newquay in Cornwall.

The Cornish Coast

NEWQUAY TO TREVELGUE HEAD