Epic Journeys – Atlantic Highway

The Atlantic Highway, a scenic stretch of the A39, winds its way through the stunning coastal landscapes of Devon and Cornwall. This 70-mile route offers a mix of coastal views, rugged cliffs, rolling countryside and quaint fishing villages. In this article, we’ll explore the top stops along the way – from idyllic beaches to off-the-beaten-track hikes, local crafts, and spots to pick up fresh, local produce for cooking in your van. Let’s dive into the ultimate Atlantic Highway campervan experience.

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Key Stops and Highlights

1. Exmoor National Park (Somerset/Devon border)

A perfect start to your journey, Exmoor National Park is known for its dramatic landscapes, wild ponies, and tranquil moorland. Explore hikes through the Valley of Rocks or enjoy a waterside walk along Tarr Steps. For a stunning off-the-beaten-path stop, head to Heddon’s Mouth, where a short walk takes you to a secluded rocky cove – a real hidden treasure.‍

2. Clovelly (North Devon)

A picturesque, car-free village, Clovelly is one of the most charming stops along the Atlantic Highway. Walk down the steep cobbled streets lined with whitewashed cottages, visit the small harbour, and admire the views over Bideford Bay. Clovelly feels like stepping back in time and is a perfect spot to enjoy lunch or a cup of tea by the sea.‍

3. Tintagel (Cornwall)

Step into myth and legend at Tintagel, the fabled birthplace of King Arthur. Visit the cliff-top ruins of Tintagel Castle, which offers breathtaking views of the coastline and a chance to explore Merlin’s Cave below during low tide. If you're into history and folklore, this is a can't-miss stop.

4. Widemouth Bay (Cornwall)

For those craving some time on the beach, Widemouth Bay is ideal. This large, sandy beach is great for surfing, bodyboarding, or simply relaxing by the water. The surrounding cliffs and coastal paths also provide fantastic hiking opportunities, especially if you want to venture a little further and discover quieter coves like Millook Haven.

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Best Campsites – Small, Scenic, and Authentic

1. Kynance Camping, The Lizard

A small, off-the-beaten-track campsite near the infamous Kynance Cove, this spot is a haven for nature lovers. Close to coastal paths and hidden coves, it’s a dream location for vanlife enthusiasts.  Although there are no electric hookups, it is just a 5 minute walk to Lizard village and it's fantastic pubs and amenities.

2. Treloan Coastal Holidays, Portscatho

Located on the Roseland Peninsula, this site has incredible sea views and a truly peaceful vibe. It has many EHU pitches and is ideal for those wanting to immerse themselves in Cornwall’s beauty while keeping it simple and low-key.

3. Trethias Farm Campsite, Treyarnon Bay

A 5-minute walk to the beautiful Treyarnon Bay and just a few miles from Padstow, this family-run site with EHU is a hidden gem. Trethias Farm offers stunning sea views and has direct access to the South West Coast Path. It's small, simple, and perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in Cornwall’s rugged coastline.

4. Treveague Farm, Gorran Haven

Tucked away on the South Cornish coast, Treveague Farm is a charming, small-scale site with EHU pitches that offer panoramic views of the sea. It’s just a 15-minute walk to a choice of three unspoiled beaches and offers a tranquil, rural setting. With farm animals nearby and a café serving local produce, it's ideal for an authentic Cornish countryside stay.

5. Beacon Cottage Farm, St Agnes

A small, family-run farm campsite located in the Cornish countryside, Beacon Cottage Farm offers stunning coastal views and is close to the charming village of St Agnes. It's just a short walk from the South West Coast Path and has a laid-back, rural atmosphere. For the energetic there are many leisure activities nearby including surfing, bathing, horse riding, fishing, gliding, sailing, golf and tennis.

6. Trevedra Farm, Sennen

Located just a mile from Sennen Cove and close to Land’s End, Trevedra Farm has been owned by the same family for 85 years, giving it a warm and personal touch. The campsite is perched on the cliffs, offering incredible sunset views over the sea. Their onsite café serves local produce and they offer plenty of EHU pitches and ebike hire onsite. 

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Top Places to Eat – Authentic & Local

1. The Rocket Store, Boscastle

A cosy, seaside restaurant serving freshly caught seafood from their own boat and local produce from their own farm. The Rocket Store epitomizes small, independent dining with delicious dishes connected to the local area.

2. The Hidden Hut, Portscatho‍

A beachside café known for its changing daily menu of fresh seasonal lunches -think soups, grilled seafood and spiced dhals. By night, the hut opens on selected summer evenings to host open air wood-fired feast nights. It’s a bit off the beaten path but well worth the visit.

3. Verdant Brewery, Falmouth

Verdant is one of Cornwall’s best craft breweries, offering bold, hop-forward beers. Their taproom in Falmouth is a great stop for craft beer lovers, and they offer mouthwatering wood-fired pizzas.

4. Ann's Pasties, Helston
Ann's Pasties are famed across Cornwall, and for good reason. These hand-crimped pasties have been made with traditional family recipes for over 30 years, offering authentic Cornish flavours in every bite.

5. The Royal George, Appledore‍

An 18th-century pub with an enviable waterfront location, offering breathtaking views towards Crow Point and Instow. Following an extensive refurbishment, the pub now boasts large windows that flood the space with natural light, creating a bright and airy ambiance. With numerous tables offering stunning sea views, guests can enjoy a menu featuring locally sourced seafood in a cosy, relaxed atmosphere.

6. The Lobster Shed, Harlyn Bay‍

Nestled within the grounds of The Pig Hotel, The Lobster Shed offers a delightful menu featuring wood-oven and charcoal-grilled Padstow lobster, fresh crab, meats, BBQ’d vegetables, and freshly picked salads. The dining space, sheltered by a canvas roof, is equipped with blankets and fires to keep you cozy during those unpredictable Cornish rain showers.

7. Electric Bakery, Bude‍

Famous for its delicious baked goods, including chunky bacon sandwiches and dhal pasties. A great spot to pick up a quick and tasty bite and some authentic sourdough.

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Atlantic Coast Walks and Hikes

1. South West Coast Path: Tintagel to Boscastle

This stretch of the South West Coast Path offers dramatic coastal scenery, with the ancient ruins of Tintagel Castle set high on the cliffs, linked to the legends of King Arthur. The hike takes you along rugged clifftops and past The Ladies Window Rock Arch and Merlin's Cave, offering a blend of history and nature. For a shorter walk, the Tintagel Circular trail is a popular option that combines coastal beauty with mythical intrigue.

2. Porthcurno to Land’s End

One of the most awe-inspiring sections of the South West Coast Path, the walk from Porthcurno to Land’s End takes you past the Minack Theatre (an open-air theatre perched on the cliffs), hidden beaches, and jagged rock formations. The trail offers dramatic views of the open ocean, and Land’s End itself marks the most westerly point of mainland England, making it a significant and scenic stop.

3. Valley of Rocks, Lynton

‍Located in Exmoor National Park, the Valley of Rocks is a striking landscape of towering cliffs, dramatic rock formations, and wild goats roaming the area. The circular hike takes you through lush greenery and offers panoramic views over the Bristol Channel. It’s a peaceful yet rugged experience, where wildlife and breathtaking geology come together. 

4. Hartland Quay

‍Known for its dramatic and rugged coastline, the paths here lead you across dramatic cliffs with sheer drops, perfect for photographers and those looking to soak in the wild beauty of North Devon. The sunsets here are spectacular, and the area offers shorter and more strenuous trails alike.

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Atlantic Highway Must-Visit Beaches 

1. Bude Sea Pool

‍Nestled into the coastline at Summerleaze Beach in Bude, this semi-natural tidal pool provides a safe and scenic spot for swimming. Surrounded by the dramatic cliffs of North Cornwall, the Bude Sea Pool is a fantastic place to cool off after exploring the nearby beaches. 

2. Widemouth Bay

‍A favourite among surfers and beachgoers, Widemouth Bay offers a vast expanse of sand with plenty of room to spread out. It’s great for those looking to learn to surf or simply unwind on a sunny day. The surrounding cliffs also provide excellent hiking opportunities, and the nearby village offers cozy cafes and traditional pubs for a post-beach bite to eat.

3. Treyarnon Bay

‍Located near Padstow, this bay is an unspoiled gem with crystal-clear waters, rock pools, and stunning coastal views. This beach offers a tranquil atmosphere, while still being close enough to larger surf spots like Polzeath if you're chasing waves. The proximity to the South West Coast Path also makes it a great location for a beach walk followed by a swim in the turquoise waters.

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Adventurous Watersports along the Atlantic Highway

1. Surfing in Newquay

Known as the surf capital of the UK, Newquay is a must-visit for surfers of all skill levels. The beaches, particularly Fistral Beach, are world-renowned for their consistent waves and vibrant surf culture. The town is filled with surf schools and rental shops, making it easy for anyone to get on a board and hit the waves. 

2. Kayaking in Bude

For a more serene experience on the water, kayaking in Bude offers a chance to explore hidden coves, dramatic cliffs, and sea caves. Paddle along the rugged North Cornwall coastline and witness the area's natural beauty from a unique perspective. Kayak rentals are available in town, and guided tours often lead visitors to secret spots only accessible by water.

3. Coasteering in Port Gaverne

‍If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, coasteering is an adventure sport that combines climbing, swimming, and cliff jumping along the rugged coastline. Port Gaverne, near Port Isaac, offers some of the best coasteering experiences in Cornwall. You’ll explore sea caves, swim through natural rock formations, and jump off cliffs into the Atlantic. It’s a thrilling way to experience the raw power and beauty of the Cornish coast.

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Pick up some Local Produce

1. Stein’s Deli, Padstow

‍A must-visit for foodies, this deli offers an impressive seafood selection along with locally sourced deli items, including charcuterie, artisan cheeses, freshly baked bread, and a range of Cornish chutneys and condiments. This is the perfect spot to pick up gourmet supplies for a picnic or to enjoy a luxurious meal in your campervan. 

2. Newlyn Fish Market, Newlyn

Situated near Penzance, Newlyn Fish Market is one of Cornwall’s largest fishing ports. While primarily a working market, several nearby shops offer the freshest seafood directly to the public. Whether you're after Cornish crab, haddock, or mackerel, this is an ideal stop to support local fishermen and enjoy the day’s catch.

3. Boscastle Farm Shop and Café, Boscastle

Nestled within National Trust farmland and just steps from the coastal path, this family-run shop is dedicated to “food from around the corner, not around the world.” Their café is known for its homemade burgers, Cornish breakfasts, and cakes. The shop also offers home-reared award-winning beef, lamb, and pork, as well as pies, quiches, and cakes - perfect for stocking up on fresh ingredients for a farm-to-table meal during your journey.

4. Padstow Farm Shop, Padstow

An award-winning shop, butchery, and deli, Padstow Farm Shop offers home-reared Ruby Red beef, free-range pork, and traditionally raised lamb, alongside homegrown vegetables. From Cornish cheeses and locally made pasta to homemade meal pots and salads, it’s a one-stop destination for high-quality local produce. 

5. Trevaskis Farm, Hayle

Spread over 28 acres of stunning countryside, Trevaskis Farm allows visitors to pick their own seasonal produce, with information signs dotted around the farm park so you can learn while you wander! The farm shop is known for its homegrown fruit and vegetables, as well as home-reared meat, locally sourced fish, dairy, and bakery items. Their Farmhouse Kitchen Restaurant has earned a stellar reputation, making this an ideal spot for both fresh ingredients and a great meal during your trip.

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The Atlantic Highway is more than just a scenic route; it's a gateway to some of the most beautiful and historically rich destinations in the UK. Whether you’re chasing waves in Newquay, hiking along the rugged cliffs of Tintagel, or enjoying a peaceful meal overlooking the ocean in Clovelly, this road trip promises memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, prep your campervan, and embark on an unforgettable adventure along the South West's stunning coastline.

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