WALKING
We have already referred to walking and sailing, two of the most popular attractions in the South Hams, in our "About South Devon" section. For the former the scope is endless and it really matters not where you stay. From a personal standpoint I would prefer a village where you can literally walk out of the door and straight into the country, along the coastline for the South Devon Coastal Path or one of the many creeks. If, however, you prefer to stay in town it is an easy matter to drive a few miles outside, park the car and then take to your feet.

There is a choice of circular walks focused on Dartmouth, Totnes, Modbury, Salcombe, Ivybridge and Kingsbridge and, though it does not fall into the South Hams area we must mention Dartmoor which is on our northern fringe. Ordnance Survey maps are a good idea but the paths are nevertheless quite prominently marked and you don't need army training to find your way around. Sensible footwear and a waterproof will equip you for most eventualities.

SAILING & BOATING
Boats and yachts of every conceivable type and size are to be found in our harbours and creeks, many belonging to holidaymakers who come year after year to partake of our renowned hospitality. You don't have to be an expert. The place where would be mariners of all ages and from many countries come to learn sailing at all levels is the Island Cruising Club in Salcombe. Every August there are annual regattas at both Salcombe and Dartmouth. Of course you don't have to sail your own vessel. River trips operate regularly from Dartmouth to Totnes and, subject to tide conditions, from Kingsbridge to Salcombe .

FISHING
In these parts too you'll find some of the best sea fishing anywhere in Britain from the shore as well as from boats. Cod, pollack, place, mackerel and ray finish up on many a local menu and that prize of prizes, sea bass. But that's not all. Our shell fish are celebrated for their succulence and freshness; scallops, lobster and crab are on most menus. If you prefer sitting on a bank rather than bobbing about in a small boat there are several trout fisheries to choose from in Sherford, Ermington and Moreleigh.

CYCLING
You don't have to be fit.............but it helps. Contour lines somehow become more meaningful when you take to two wheels. But if it's hard going uphill, once you reach the top it does'nt feel nearly so bad! There are miles and miles of unspoilt country lanes to explore, not to mention a fair sprinkling of strategically located hostelries to satisfy the inner man and woman and of course many spectacular views. If you can't bring your own bike there are several centres where you can hire one in Kingsbridge, Totnes and Plymouth. For the serious mountain biker there is a choice of six coastal and inland routes available from local Tourist Information Centres. I can't vouch for the source but I read somewhere that Devon has more roads than any other county in Britain.