Twitchen Holiday Park, Woolacombe and Potter's Hill Loop

Starting near Devon, England, the Twitchen Holiday Park, Woolacombe and Potter's Hill Loop is a captivating 17 km (approximately 10.5 miles) trail with an elevation gain of around 300 meters (about 985 feet). This loop trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If driving, set your GPS to Twitchen Holiday Park, Mortehoe Station Road, Woolacombe, EX34 7ES. For public transport, take a train to Barnstaple Station, then catch a bus towards Woolacombe, alighting at the Twitchen Holiday Park stop.

Trail Overview The trail begins at Twitchen Holiday Park and quickly immerses you in the lush landscapes of North Devon. As you start, you'll be greeted by rolling hills and expansive views of the countryside. The first section of the trail is relatively gentle, allowing you to ease into the hike.

Woolacombe Beach Around 3 km (1.9 miles) into the hike, you'll reach Woolacombe Beach, a stunning stretch of golden sand that has been awarded Blue Flag status. This is a great spot to take a break, enjoy the sea breeze, and perhaps even dip your toes in the water. The beach is also a popular spot for surfers, so you might catch some impressive waves.

Potter's Hill Continuing on, the trail ascends towards Potter's Hill. This section is more challenging, with a steady climb that will test your endurance. The elevation gain here is about 150 meters (492 feet) over a distance of 2 km (1.2 miles). As you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. On a clear day, you can see as far as Lundy Island.

Flora and Fauna The trail is rich in biodiversity. Keep an eye out for wildflowers such as bluebells and foxgloves, especially in the spring and early summer. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of species, including skylarks, kestrels, and even the occasional peregrine falcon. Small mammals like rabbits and hedgehogs are also common sightings.

Historical Significance The area around Woolacombe and Mortehoe is steeped in history. Mortehoe, which you'll pass through around the 10 km (6.2 miles) mark, is a quaint village with roots dating back to the Domesday Book. The village church, St. Mary's, is worth a visit for its medieval architecture and serene churchyard.

Navigation and Safety Given the varied terrain, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to stay on track. The trail is well-marked, but having a digital map can be invaluable, especially in foggy conditions which are not uncommon in this region.

Final Stretch The final part of the loop takes you through more pastoral landscapes, with gentle undulations and scenic views of the Devon countryside. As you approach the end of the trail, you'll return to Twitchen Holiday Park, where you can relax and reflect on your journey.

This trail offers a perfect blend of coastal beauty, historical intrigue, and natural splendor, making it a must-do for any hiking enthusiast visiting North Devon.