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Walking Feedback and Reviews -

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Walk Reviews and Customer Feedback

Route: Bude to Padstow Name: Chip Spicer Walked on: 28th October 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Booking our walk was difficult because we had to cancel twice due to Covid. But Encounter Walking handled the changes smoothly. They also provided excellent advice on our route and the timing of our trip. We couldn't have been more pleased with their staff and responses to our issues."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"The website was very helpful in selecting our route. "

Your Walking Routes

"The route was everything we were looking for. It was challenging for three hikers in our 70s, but we enjoyed the challenge. The scenery was outstanding. We had high winds blowing FROM THE LAND on some of our days, but that just added to the challenge."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"The notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary were very helpful. The only trouble we had in following the trail occurred near towns, where social trails sometimes caused confusion. The downloaded maps and GPS signal on my phone from an app called Pocket Earth, helped us stay on the correct trail in these instances."

Luggage transfers

"All transfers worked perfectly."

Accommodation

"We were very pleased with all of our accommodations. The hosts were all friendly and the breakfasts were excellent. Our only concern was that breakfasts were not available until 8 AM, which meant a late start on the trail. Because our hike was in late October, the days were shorter, so we would have preferred to get an earlier start."

Overall experience

"Outstanding! This was my second walking holiday with Encounter Walking, and I hope to do more."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: South West Coastal Path - Falmouth to Plymouth Name: Carl Starr Walked on: 1st October 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"The assistance, guidance and expertise of Encounter Walking played a critical role in my 70+ mile walk, to celebrate turning 70. Taking the advice of several experienced long distance walking friends, I contacted Encounter Walking help plan a route. Every aspect, from advice, to booking accommodations, luggage transfers, maps, etc., was first rate and I will happily use them again in future. I will also recommend them to friends and colleagues. "

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"I found their web site to be a very useful in scoping and general planning for my walk. "

Your Walking Routes

"Their tips for walkers were quite helpful, especially when it came to sections of the walk, where directions might be confusing or sparce, as well as providing warnings about areas where erosion works might be underway."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"The walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary really did help us, especially when reviewing each day's upcoming section. "

Luggage transfers

"Luggage transfers are the only way to go. What a benefit it is to only have to worry about what you need to carry on the day. This service was flawless."

Accommodation

"Each day's accommodation satisfied exactly what we had asked for."

Overall experience

"My overall experience for this adventure was brilliant, and Encounter Walking played a crucial role in making it so. One suggestion I have for walkers, is to get an OS Maps premium subscription. A very experienced long distance walking friend suggested this to me. This, along with the Encounter Walking maps, are important pieces of kit. The OS Maps you create for the day on a smart device will work whether you have a signal or not."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Ilfracombe to Braunton Name: Polly Thomas Walked on: 22nd September 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Well informed and very helpful. Having access to local knowledge made our plans much easier"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"The Coast Path is stunning - the section from Ilfracombe was very up and down, but as we came around to the Western side it became much flatter, and although it was pleasant walking, lacked the "wow" factor of the northern coastline. Saunton to Braunton had a detour where the path was being repaired and we thought it would have been more fun to walk down the beach instead."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

"Very efficient and no problems. What a delight not to carry all that stuff every day!"

Accommodation

"Mixed - some of our accommodation hosts were fabulous. Other places were adequate, but we understand that not all towns can provide a lot of choice."

Overall experience

"We loved out three days of freedom - knowing that everything was organised in advance by people who know the area made life so simple. We just had to get up, eat breakfast and walk. We were very fortunate with the weather too!"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Devon Coast To Coast Name: Jim Walked on: 18th September 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"I had a pretty good idea how I wanted to do the walk but Encounter definitely helped me improve it. Encounter was also very helpful, given I had to postpone my walk because of COVID restrictions and also to add two more walkers to the itinerary."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"The web site has all the information I needed."

Your Walking Routes

"We started the walk from Plymouth, partially because it is easy to get to Plymouth via the train from London, and partially to walk a tiny bit of the South West Coast Path. I'm glad we did - although the first bit through Plymouth has some less than interesting bits, once we crossed the Plym, it was really nice."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"The walking notes from Encounter are excellent - take the time to read through them carefully, as they are full of good and important information. The Cicerone guidebook and the map booklet were all we needed, although at times a GPS and/or a compass helped us not to get too far off the trail when it was less than clear. We never used the OS paper maps at all."

Luggage transfers

"No problems at all."

Accommodation

"All the accommodations were excellent. If you have any long walking days planned, however, think about your breakfast ahead of time. Most places didn't serve a cooked breakfast until 7:30 or 8:00, which for us meant we had to make do with a cold breakfast left out for us, since we couldn't afford to wait until 9:00 or 9:30 to get out on the trail when walking 20+ miles."

Overall experience

"I really enjoyed the Devon Coast to Coast Walk and Encounter Walking Holidays did a great job with everything! Couldn't have asked for a better experience. "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Minehead to Clovelly Name: steven francis Walked on: 18th September 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"was very easy to chat through what I had in mind and then left for encounter to come up with a POA "

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"easy to use and navigate "

Your Walking Routes

"South West coast path is spectacular , however we had great weather and it would of been a let less fun and harder work if it had rained every day "

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"It is obviously well sign posted but the coast path guide book was in my pocket and we used it regulalry every day along with the map and the os app ( on phone ) "

Luggage transfers

"Worked seamlessly, was no issue and is a great service"

Accommodation

"overall very good, first stop was a bit ropey and very little food option , even on a sunday , fortunately we had not walked that day. One of the B and B's did not have en suite despite us requesting that, which was a bit of a pain . (however it was very nice and the hosts were great ) "

Overall experience

"we had a brilliant 8 days, and will be back, its a very beutiful part of the UK , although as I have said it did help massively that we had such great weather"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Saints’ Way Name: Greg Arnold Walked on: 16th September 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"I liked all the information and maps provided plus up to date problems we might meet with signage, etc Good advice for transport and transfers"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"Quite a lot of road walking but ok as quiet lanes. Not too difficult and interesting history Some logs or stones for a sit down would be welcome. Great views and final destination spectacular"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Excellent maps and info cards. Enjoyed Hall Walk at the end before leaving Fowey"

Luggage transfers

"Perfect"

Accommodation

"Excellent "

Overall experience

"A few days of peace in a busy world. In the midst of scenery and nature. My wife who is not used to a longer walking holiday also enjoyed it. Good to learn about the Celtic saints and make it a pilgrimage "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: SWCP: Falmouth to Wembury, Erme-Plyme Trail, and Dartmoor Way Name: Joan Cardiff Walked on: 16th September 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Excellent, timely, responsive to all our questions and concerns"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Easy to navigate and filled with helpful information"

Your Walking Routes

"The SWCP from Falmouth the Wembury was an excellent experience. Challenging, but not so challenging as to be really difficult, wonderful vistas, lovely villages to explore. The trail was well-marked and easy to follow. The Erme-Plyme Trail from Wembury to Ivybridge was a gentle walk, through lovely bridleways and along burbling rivers. An easy and relaxing two day walk. The Dartmoor Way was a multitude of experiences! The time on the high (and mid-high) moors was exhilarating - and take note! the information about how quickly the weather can change on the high moor is correct! When the clouds/fog closed in suddenly, we would have had difficulty without the GPS as a guide. We enjoyed exploring the stannery towns, Castle Drogo, the Lynford Gorge, Brentor and Haytor - there were many highlights. The distances along narrow tarmaced lanes, usually with high hedges, were more than we expected, and we found them hard on the feet. The waymarking on the Dartmoor Way is good, but the path is not "obvious" as it is along the coast; close and careful reading of the instructions is required or you will find yourself backtracking! Altogether, our 24 days were a wonderful experience. "

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"The Encounter walking guide is very useful, especially at the end of the day, when locating the accommodation is important. The Trailblazer Guide is excellent. The Dartmoor Way instructions are very good, though each section appears to have been written by a different person ... what is a 'hard uphill climb' to one writer is a 'steady ascent' to another. Careful reading is required as the Way is a series of bridleways and trails, not a clearly defined "path"."

Luggage transfers

"Superlative, never a glitch. "

Accommodation

"All were adequate, some were very good, some were excellent. "

Overall experience

"This was our third time working with Encounter Walking. We are already planning our fourth - a testimony to their excellent quality knowledge and support. "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Westward Ho! to Padstow Name: John Walked on: 15th September 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Very helpful and responsive to our questions and plans. Trip was originally scheduled for 2020 but Encounter staff were very flexible and understanding in rebooking us for 2022."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Easy to navigate and preview various route options. "

Your Walking Routes

"Very scenic...gorgeous coastline walking. Lots of ups and downs. Glad we did the long walk from Hartland Quay to Bude over two days. Delicious ripe blackberries through most of North Devon route."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Very comprehensive. Didn't really need the tide tables or OS map books as the guidebooks and route summaries provided plenty of detail."

Luggage transfers

"Went off without a hitch. Bags were always at our accommodation when we arrived. Peter did a great job. "

Accommodation

"A nice mix of hotels, pubs, inns and B and Bs. Very friendly people. "

Overall experience

"We really enjoyed our experience and the lovely route and gorgeous weather. Met lots of friendly people. "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: St Ives to Marazion and St Michael's Way back to St Ives Name: Joe Carper Walked on: 11th September 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Easy to get a quote...very responsive to all my questions. I like that Encounter offers options for room upgrades and more budget options."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Great descriptions of each day and relative level of difficulty."

Your Walking Routes

"St Ives to Marazion was spectacular, particular the St Ives to Pendeen segment. After rushing through the Jurassic Coast a few years ago, we built in extra days in St Ives, Pendeen, and Porthcurno...which gave us time to explore these interesting towns, visit the local museums and galleries, and learn more about Cornish history. The Geevor Mine museum in Pendeen and the Telegraph Museum (now Global Communications Museum) in Porthcurno are must sees. Disappointed that we were unable to see a show at the Minnack Theater but all shows sold out when I tried booking 3 months out. Some terrific countryside walking with beautiful views on the St Michael's Way."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Excellent and very helpful"

Luggage transfers

"No problems at all"

Accommodation

"Each hotel or B&B was perfectly adequate for us, and a few were exceptional. While each had its own quirks, we were happy to have a comfortable bed and hot shower each night. Breakfast quality varied from place to place, but we never went hungry."

Overall experience

"A challenge at times when raining and with muddy trails, but we loved every day! Great coastal hiking and the St Michael's Way overland back to St Ives was a great ending. Looking forward to next year!"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: South West coast path - Newquay to Plymouth Name: Rosie Yuille Walked on: 9th September 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Efficient and helpful"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"Spectacular route but challenging"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"We found the hand drawn maps in the guidebook not all that easy to get used to and slightly hard to interpret. We would have liked some more written instructions. The daily notes were very helpful. "

Luggage transfers

"Seamless"

Accommodation

"Mostly great. Varied and interesting. Friendly and helpful hosts in the B and Bs. comfortable beds( except for one place out of the 20 that we stayed in) "

Overall experience

"Fantastic walk. "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Pembrokeshire Coast Path Name: Andrew Newsham Walked on: 6th September 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

Overall experience

"The west and north sections of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path...another great UK national trail adventure organised for my wife and I by Encounter Walking. I could ramble on (excuse the pun) about the excellence of the Encounter team and the service their customers receive, but I won't test your patience to that degree! All I'd say is that our trip to Wales was the third holiday we've booked with Encounter, and I imagine we'll return to book further holidays regularly in the future. I recommend this company very highly indeed. As for the Pembrokeshire Coast Path itself, it reminded us more of south west Ireland than, say, the South West Coast Path in Cornwall. It's wild, rugged and remote...but very rewarding. One tip - take a day off in St Davids for a visit to Ramsey Island. And be prepared for long, challenging, not-for-the-faint-hearted days when heading north from St Davids - up to and beyond 20 miles as you make your way to Trefin, Goodwick, Newport and, finally, St Dogmaels. Tough, but every step is a joy."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Bude - St Ives Name: John Walked on: 4th September 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"superb planning, friendly knowledgeable staff helped ensure a holiday which met our requirements "

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"very clear"

Your Walking Routes

"the Cornish coastal path is fantastic"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Detailed, accurate and provided all that we needed (and more) for a great holiday"

Luggage transfers

"worked perfectly"

Accommodation

"exactly as agreed/described"

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Plymouth- Brixham Name: Ulrika an Dirk (Germany) Walked on: 4th September 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"We had a great time in a funtastic countryside. The walk of our life!!! Some distances are very long and ambitious, but you can make it shorter, if you wish."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Ev. was fine, good materials. "

Luggage transfers

"well organised. "

Accommodation

"Great places, friendly people"

Overall experience

"Wonderful walk!! Stunnunig views, lovely places!! Great memories. Thank you all for the experience!"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Penzance to Falmouth Name: Laurie Walked on: 3rd September 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Damon was wonderful and very responsive to our many questions!"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Very easy to navigate and includes LOTS of information. "

Your Walking Routes

"We wondered if mileage was calculated as the 'crow flies' because it was much longer (based on several of our fitbits) than anticipated, especially when we had some long and steep crevices to navigate. Ten miles was actually 18 miles. "
Hi Laurie, The mileage is actual distance not as the crow flies and is based on the official distances provided by the South West Coast Path Association and they are very accurate as they were taken by someone walking the path and taking the measurements. There will always be some variation - distances to and from your accommodation, changes in the path route on the ground but it wouldn't be as much as 8 miles out on a 10 mile walk so you may need to look at the fitbits - 10 miles would be 16km so just checking its not reporting as KM instead of miles as that might explain things? - Damon

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Notes, maps and guidebooks were all very good but it would be helpful if the path itself was better marked. In some places it was perfect and in others it was non-existent. "

Luggage transfers

"Always on time and where it was supposed to be. Very efficient!!"

Accommodation

"All the accommodations were excellent (clean and comfortable) except for one, which had staffing & plumbing issues - the only reason for 4 stars instead of 5."

Overall experience

" I would recommend (and already have) Encounter Walking to anyone who wants to walk this lovely path. Using them made the trip so easy and pleasant! "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Wales Coast Path - Tenby to Machynlleth Name: Rob Whalan Walked on: 1st September 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Easy and straight forward. Receiving a complete quote and itinerary before signing was great."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Easy to navigate"

Your Walking Routes

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Absolutely comprehensive, even included tide times."

Luggage transfers

"Walkalongway luggage transfers never missed a beat - luggage always delivered where it should be."

Accommodation

"All good standard - some stood out because of extremely friendly staff or hosts (Castle Inn, Newport) or perhaps a bit of quirkiness (Shoreline B&B, Aberystwyth)"

Overall experience

"I had the route on a hand held GPS which made it easy to check you were on the right track particularly in adverse weather. I always carried a map and compass but rarely needed them. The cliffs along the coast of Wales are spectacular and exceeded all expectations."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Westward Ho! to Minehead Name: Alison Carter Walked on: 29th August 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Very flexible and met our requirements, despite it being a busy period and our late booking."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Easy to access and good for general information and planning."

Your Walking Routes

"Signposting was generally good. Alternative routes are available on several sections. We were forewarned by the website that the Tarka Trail on the old railway line between Bideford and Braunton could be somewhat harassing for walkers due to the need to keep out of the way of cyclists. This certainly proved to be the case! These stretches were very flat but because of the tarmac were hard on the feet. "

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"All fine."

Luggage transfers

"Perfect."

Accommodation

"It was a delight to find our accommodation each evening. We enjoyed the variety. All the hosts were friendly and helpful and provided tasty breakfasts. Encounter walking chose excellent accommodation for us. The B&B at Instow Barton was super and the Watersmeet Hotel at Woolacombe (expensive, but for a celebration) was suberb."

Overall experience

"We had a memorable holiday. The scenery was magnificent. As always, the coast path is interesting and varied and physically challenging at times! Encounter Walking's organisation was faultless."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: St Ives to Penzance Name: Joanne Walked on: 25th August 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Really helpful in all aspects of planning and fabulous local knowledge. Chose somelovely accomodation for us."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"All good and all clear but also once you've seen something they will adapt it so it totally fits your needs, locations, pace etc."

Your Walking Routes

"Gorgeous scenery! Absolutely beautiful."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"really comprehensive: notes, maps, guidebooks and tide tables..."

Luggage transfers

"Very well organised. No hitches at all.Met the transfer man by chance as he delivered our luggage and he was really cheerful and friendly."

Accommodation

"Super locations, friendly hosts"

Overall experience

"We had an absolutely great time. Beautiful places. We asked for a really easy pace and we loved it. (Gorgeous weather too!)"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Southwest coast - Exmouth to West Bay Name: Jean-Marc Pittet Walked on: 12th August 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Westward Ho! to Padstow Name: Julie Louise Law Walked on: 7th August 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"As before everything was seamless"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Comprehensive website - informative and makes you want to do the next bit!"

Your Walking Routes

"Tough on the knees and you need to be relatively fit for this part as we walked in the heatwave - 10/10 for ups and downs!!! The suggested timings took us longer but that was probably due to the heat."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Brilliant"

Luggage transfers

"Seamless"

Accommodation

"Everywhere was brilliant, especially the lovely Instow Barton B&B. We also particularly loved Coombe Barton Inn, Crackington Haven and Ye Olde Malthouse, Tintagell. Cornwall is suffering from staff shortages so we were slightly disappointed at Port Isaac and Padstow but overall everything was great. "

Overall experience

"A challenging but very rewarding walk - spectacular views and a great escape. Everything worked as it should have done (even our knees!) Encounter made this a very easy way to continue our SW Coast Path adventure. "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Minehead to Hartland Quay Name: Petra Olschowski Walked on: 4th August 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"Except the part Saunton to Barnstaple"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

"Some are three, the most are four or five stars..."

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Two Moors Way Name: NEIL STURMEY Walked on: 3rd August 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Excellent information and able to answer questions quickly"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"A good challenge in 7 days- very dooable for experienced walkers but a couple of long days and ups/downs. The main challenge was 30 degree heat so hydration was key."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

"Mostly very good, a couple of points- ask for quiet rooms if possible- our Ivybridge stay in particular was on a main road. It was very hot so we had to open the windows onto that road. There are limited choices there unless you want to taxi off route. Good rooms & beer at the New Inn in Coleford but take note the entrance when closed is via the car park, no signs to tell us! The Tradesmans Arms in Scorriton was very good- rooms very nice, good service & hosts and food. Our Withypool stay was a little too quirky for us! A little dis-organised on our arrival, which seemed to be because they were using additional rooms not normally let out, due to extra people staying. We loved Chagford as a place, lovely rooms at the Three Crowns. Food very good. The Mariners Guesthouse in Plymouth was very welcoming, as was the St Vincents in Lynton."

Overall experience

"Overall excellent, river/moor/villages and hills to see- some real highlight of places to walk through. 7 days is a fast pace so if you don't want that go for a couple of shorter days in addition."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Mullion to Falmouth Name: Maria Walked on: 1st August 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"We got great advice that fit our wishes perfectly."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Super informative, really gives you a picture of what to expect."

Your Walking Routes

"Loved them! Each day had something special and added up to a perfect trip."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Great to have suggestions for best places to eat, best beaches. "

Luggage transfers

"Our bags were always waiting for us upon arrival."

Accommodation

"We loved the mix of upgraded hotel, B and Bs, and pubs. All were very clean."

Overall experience

"This was a 20th Anniversary trip delayed due to Covid. We had a fabulous time. The mixture of natural beauty and, for us foreigners, quaint English villages and historic sites was perfect. We loved every minute. We are already planning another segment for next year."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Penzance to Falmouth Name: Birte and Monika Walked on: 26th July 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Very helpful and nice staff."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"Wonderful landscape! Maybe interesting to know: There is no longer a ferry to cross Gillian Creek and the stepping stones are not a good choice. The walk around the Creek is beautiful, the extra mile is worth the detour. Few supermarkets/shops on this route, sometimes it was hard to find food for a picknick."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"The material we got was helpful, we had everything we needed. "

Luggage transfers

"Worked perfectly."

Accommodation

"All very nice and friendly. More than one vegetarian meal on the menu would have been nice."

Overall experience

"A great experience!! "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Padstow to St Ives Name: Estèbe Walked on: 24th July 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"Walking from Hayle to St Ives, look out for the acorn sign when you embark on your walk along the estuary. At some point (and after about a mile's walk), the path veers to the left and follows the road. As the view seems nicer on the right hand side - across a stance of marshlands - you will want to go that way. Don't. We had to back up after a while, when we realised that we were going back to Hayle. "You are not the first ones to make that mistake, said the dog walkers we asked our way to. They all do." "

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

Overall experience

"Newquay came as a shock, after 3 days of breathtaking nature. "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Penzance (Marazion) to Falmouth Name: Winfried Laane Walked on: 18th July 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Very easy and good communication."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"16 miles proved to be too long a distance for us, with long walking (from 9:30-19:30) but fabulous views."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"The use of the OS maps and app made orientation easy. Sometimes hard to decide whether to go up or down..but mostly easy to follow the track."

Luggage transfers

"perfect"

Accommodation

"Do make your dinner reservation if advised."

Overall experience

"Great holiday."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Penzance to Falmouth Name: Torunn Bjøreid Walked on: 12th July 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Encounter Walking Holidays are excellent in planning and booking. The accommodation was absolutely lovely and the instructions along the walk were very thorough and good and useful. And they communicate very well. I have recommended you to everyone who might be interested in walking in Southern England and Wales."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"The website is easy to navigate and there is an abundance of relevant information."

Your Walking Routes

"Some of the stretches were harder than expected, because the paths were overgrown and the surface was very worn and slippery, especially some kilometres before Coverack. There were also places here and there where there should have been more signposts, and it was easy to take the wrong turn. That is not great if the day's walk is by far long enough as it is. Luckily I had plotted all the stretches on an app (Komoot) so we could see where we were supposed to walk."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"We walked in July 2022, and the paths were more overgrown than usual, perhaps due to the warm weather? So we got a lot of scratches on the arms and legs (brambles, gorse, thistles, holly, stinging nettles). We could have worn long sleeves and trousers, but it was hot... The Trailblazer guide books are brilliant. We use them all the time. The itinerary was good. A couple of the walks were longer than anticipated, perhaps because we had to walk some distance from the path to the accommodation a couple of times"

Luggage transfers

"Excellent as always."

Accommodation

"Excellent as always. Lovely B&Bs, pubs and hotels. The hosts are welcoming and friendly and very serviceminded. Breakfasts were really good. All of them except Cadgwith Cove Inn had a well functioning WiFi. "

Overall experience

"This is our 4th time using Encounter Walking Holidays and we are super happy with you. All is good, and we will use you for all our walks that you cover. Thank you! After resting a bit at home I am again eager to walk further on, but it will sadly have to wait until 2023. "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Plymouth to Brixham Name: ROBERT BALL Walked on: 12th July 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"1st rate"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

"Always acceptable, ranging from perfectly satisfactory to quite luxurious"

Overall experience

"Thoroughly enjoyable. Which is why I am a return customer, having engaged the services of Encounter for four separate legs of the SWCP, from Padstow to Brixham."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: SWCP: Harlyn Bay - St. Ives Name: Henk Koster Walked on: 11th July 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Helpful staff, happy to accommodate our requests."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Hardly used."

Your Walking Routes

"3 days of 20 km was a bit strenuous for us, others may be in better shape... Beautiful scenery mostly, some smaller sections were less spectacular."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Excellent with a lot of detail."

Luggage transfers

"As expected (and hoped for) - always there when we arrived."

Accommodation

"Generally very good, a few rooms were very small so I had difficulty stowing my luggage. All hotels were (very) close to the SW Coast Path, which was very much appreciated (we've had occasionally other experiences elsewhere). Dining in The Bedruthan in Mawgan Porth was very expensive, but also very good (the hotel itself was good, room was smallish)."

Overall experience

"Very good. Requests in planning were dealt with swiftly."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Marazion to Falmouth Name: Colin Piper Walked on: 9th July 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"All excellent."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"No problems"

Your Walking Routes

"No problems"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"This took a long time to go through, but it was worthwhile. Once we went off the route while coming into Coverack and had a very rough mile of walking. Our fault for not realising the higher route via the sculpture park was now the official coast path."

Luggage transfers

"Worked very well without any problems"

Accommodation

"This varied due to local availability. Some were outstanding like the Five Pilchards at Porthallow, when we were not expecting this. The accommodation at Mullion was a bit basic with a very basic breakfast. The Greenbank in Falmouth provided a wonderful end to the walk. Our plannned stop at Portleven, the Harbour Inn was not open due to an electrical problem and we were taxied to the Mullion Cove Hotel at short notice. Thank you!"

Overall experience

"A great experience helped by 25 degree heat and excellent views. We took extra water but ran short on some stretches. Route was strenuous rather than moderate walking north up the east side of the Lizard Peninsula"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: SWCP Westwood Ho! to Padstow Name: Gaynor Waterman Walked on: 7th July 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Excellent service from Encounter"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"we used our own maps and guidebook. The information provided by Encounter was very helpful when it came to finding accommodation"

Luggage transfers

"worked perfectly"

Accommodation

"Mixed accommodation, some good, Red Lion at Clovelly some bad, Crackington Haven"

Overall experience

"It is always a pleasure to work with Damon and his team. We book early and try to obtain the best rooms in the hotels en route. Unfortunately despite their best efforts the accommodation falls short of our expectations. This mainly due to the availabilty of places to stay along the path."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Two Moors Way (half) Name: HILARY FRANCES LUCE Walked on: 27th June 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Very easy to deal with - everything done satisfactorily and promptly by e-mail"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"Encounter was flexible - they were able to accommodate our doing half the Two Moors Way as we had already done half on our own"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"We used our own guide by Sue Viccars which was excellent, indeed essential so I cannot comment on the material provided by Encounter."

Luggage transfers

"Worked perfectly"

Accommodation

"The hotel in Lynton was well situated but the food was pretty dreadful"

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Saints' Way Name: Michael Quinn Walked on: 26th June 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"excellent website and staff"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"one of the best in the business for detail and photos "

Your Walking Routes

"We were beginning a pilgrimage walk that continued in Spain on the Camino Ingles to Santiago. Saints'Way is fairly primitive from tourist standpoint but fine for allowing lots of solitude for interior journey. The Saints' Way needs more time to really visit and absorb historical sites. Two days not enough. In all, bit of a letdown after SW Coastal Path."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Very nice map with historical and cultural sites. Some churches along the way not open to public for passport stamps."

Luggage transfers

"seamless"

Accommodation

"Lanivet monastery very nice, Padstow lodging quite adequate, Fowey a unit below average."

Overall experience

"A good walk with time for reflection and pastoral views."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Penzance to Falmouth Name: Robert Beatty Walked on: 24th June 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Excellent communication"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Helpful"

Your Walking Routes

"Loved everything! This is an fabulous route."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"One book that might be useful to add is the Cicerone book by Paddy Dillon. It helped me navigate a few mystery spots when the provided book was murky. "

Luggage transfers

"Seamless!"

Accommodation

"Loved all the accommodation. The Budock Vean Hotel in Mawnan Smith was more of a resort than a hotel and a little, well, interesting to say the least, but definitely luxurious! "

Overall experience

"Everything was so memorable and Encounter did a great job."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Penzance to Falmouth Name: Barney Moss Walked on: 19th June 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Super helpful, the only improvement I can suggest is to mention the dress code at Budock Vean (we would have been more comfortable with shirts not t-shirts)"

Your Walking Routes

"This was a superb route, especially Penzance to Lizard Point. In particular, get to Kynance Cove on a falling tide, it's magical as the high tide falls away and reveals an amazing island of sand and caves. These timings mean you won't be able to ford Gillan Creek on the penultimate day, but it's well worth it"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"The amount of materials is probably overkill for this simple and well-signed route, we did most of it with Google Maps"

Luggage transfers

"Faithfully moved my paddleboard to the next place every day, and the luggage allowance for the dog was a great addition"

Accommodation

"Some average places, but in general much better than I would have found on my own. Highlights were the Halzephron Inn and Budock Vean"

Overall experience

"My first walking holiday and we're already planning another"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Saints Way - Padstow to Fowey Name: Christopher Babbs Walked on: 18th June 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Good communication."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Company were very flexible to our wishes. Notes were good. Occasional Saints Way signs were hard to spot."

Luggage transfers

"Seamless"

Accommodation

"Perfect for our needs."

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Newquay to Lizard Name: Johanna Bruckmeir Walked on: 18th June 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Very kind, inidividual, always helpful and interested in all our wishes"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"We didn´t use it"

Your Walking Routes

"Very nice, 10 to 15 km per day were enough for us to enjoy"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"The walking notes were very helpful and we read it every morning at breakfast. The map was necessary, not the guidebook. It´s mostly possible to connect with internet, therefore it was easy to find all accomodations. 2 or 3 times we got a little bit lost because we followed the yellow sign "public footpath" - it´s not really a problem, but don´t do that!"

Luggage transfers

"Perfect"

Accommodation

"Very different, but thats what we love. Highlights were TheTregeraint House in Zennor with the best host ever (Sue) and the luxurious Pollurian Bay Hotel in Mullion Cove because of the stunning location"

Overall experience

"Our best holiday ever. We hope we will walk another part of the SW Coastpath with your help next year "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: SW Coastal Path St ives to Padstow Name: Michael Quinn Walked on: 18th June 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"very easy to plan, excellent info on website and from agency staff "

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"website one of very best in the business, for clarity, detail and photos "

Your Walking Routes

"between St. Ives and Padstow, the most beautiful coastal views I've seen anywhere "

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"first class"

Luggage transfers

"no issues"

Accommodation

"for the price, very nice lodgings, with most better than average and a couple really excellent - St. Ives and Plymouth "

Overall experience

"cool, dry weather helped. Beautiful sea and coastal views loaded with historic features"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: St Ives/Penzance/St Ives Name: Senior Sloggers Walked on: 14th June 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Great service, suggestions and bookings with Encounter"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"We had maps and book and path is well marked. We do highly recommend having a GPS hiking app as it instantly alerts you to a wrong turn. There are a multitude of public footpaths that come off the SWCP, most are marked but occasionally they are not and it can be easy to take the wrong one. "

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Good particularly the extra notes for the St Michaels Way"

Luggage transfers

"Went flawlessly"

Accommodation

"Generally good. Some nice surprises as well as some disappointments. Pedn Olva views are stunning. Gurnards Head food is fantastic having expected ordinary pub food. Field House great host and property. Old Success Inn great location and comfortable. Porthcurno accommodation not nearly up to standard but limited options in the location perhaps? Hotel Penzance very good, really nice hotel and food. St Ives hotel was pretentious and not worth the upcharge."

Overall experience

"This section of the coastline is just so amazing with the right weather it is a great experience. Finishing with St Michaels Way was a big bonus as it allowed us to do a complete loop. It is different hiking to the coastal path but that in itself was enjoyable to be walking inland and such history. "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: SWCP Falmouth to Penzance Name: Skovdal Walked on: 12th June 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: South West Coast Name: Anne-Grethe Rosted Walked on: 12th June 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"First time we have used Encounter Walking, but we were very much satisfied, always helpful."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Many interesting things to read before your journey."

Your Walking Routes

"Very beautiful coastwalks - different surroundings, the sea -the Coves - fields with wild flowers - good knees is essential, there are many ups and downs, but we'll do it again anytime."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Very detailed map, book and itinerary - a big help for your walks."

Luggage transfers

"Smooth and flawlessly"

Accommodation

"We experienced very different accommodations - but we were very much satisfied with all of them."

Overall experience

"A fantastic holliday with fantastic walks - we loved it - Thank you."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Mevagissey to Fowey Name: Erica Rose Walked on: 11th June 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Easygoing support, all communication very clear!"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Clear to understand, easy to navigate - gave me the inspiration and suggestion for our walk!"

Your Walking Routes

"Stunning!! Although only 2.5 days of walking; a lovely balance of 'beautifulness', challenge & amazing destinations! The Charlestown to Fowey section was more scenic than the guide book led us to believe - only a brief residential/industrial section!"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Perect & very helpful thank you!"

Luggage transfers

"Perfect - no issues at all!!"

Accommodation

"Perfect for all of our needs & great locations!"

Overall experience

"Would highly recommend and will definitely use again in the future!!"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: St Ives to Penzance (Mousehole) Name: Julia Bell Walked on: 7th June 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"The staff were always very helpful and polite with any queries that we might have had."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Didn't really use it."

Your Walking Routes

"A glorious stretch of coast, more wild and remote with fewer villages. Definitely tougher on some days than many other stretches of the coastal path but well worth the effort. "

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Encounter provide excellent notes and accompanying OS maps. "

Luggage transfers

"Perfect."

Accommodation

"Mostly excellent, especially the places with sea views. "

Overall experience

"Terrific. Hope to do another section next year. "

Route: Minehead to Bude Name: Vivienne Walked on: 7th June 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Exceptionally helpful"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Didn't use it much"

Your Walking Routes

"Generally good signposting but sometimes a bit lacking (through Bude!!) Lovely walks on cliff tops and surprisingly varied scenery. Braunston nature reserve was rather dull"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

"Variable as one would expect, The Brookfield and the Red Lion at Clovelly were exceptional In future, I will hesitate before changing the recommended accommodation!!!! Some rooms were very small with matching tiny bathrooms"

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Lyme Regis to Lulworth Name: Kathie Moskovitz Walked on: 5th June 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"The Encounter team provided valuable information and was able to accommodate all of our requests. "

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"My walking partner and I found the route quite challenging, and were glad that we shortened a few treks to 5 or 6 miles a day. This also gave us time to explore lovely places like Lyme Regis, Abbotsbury and Weymouth."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"The combination of maps and written descriptions of the routes in the SW Coast guide book were very helpful, and kept us from becoming lost (most of the time.)"

Luggage transfers

"Our luggage was in our rooms when we arrived each afternoon."

Accommodation

"Wonderful, comfortable inns and B&B's. "

Overall experience

"A wonderful adventure! We thoroughly enjoyed traveling through wild open places each day, then finding good food and lodging just over the next hill. We are looking forward to another walking holiday."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Padstow to St. Ives Cornwall Name: Jill Gradon Walked on: 4th June 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Everything was done very well.. Perhaps point out when a shared facility (ie. bathrooms) is to be used. We had overlooked this in Hayle and had a surprise but it all worked out very well "
 
 
We did explain on the quote and the booking confirmation that the accommodation in Hayle has shared bathroom facilities. There is no other accommodation in Hayle which accepts dogs. - Encounter Walking.

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Great. Easy to use and clear with good advice."

Your Walking Routes

"All walks were well directed and the notes were good and helpful. There were some short cuts that might have been advised but chatting with other walkers provided good advice. The route into Hayle was not clear and we ended up going a long way around and through a new housing construction area whereas a short cut across the fields(which we found out was a walking track) from the beach would have been much nicer."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"All very helpful. We had downloaded a walking app which was very helpful as some times the track was not clear. Would recommend this to others."

Luggage transfers

"Very good and worked well."

Accommodation

"Most accommodation was fabulous. The only disappointment was at Newquay (Great Western) where it was rambling and staff not very helpful. Toilet did not work but was eventually repaired."

Overall experience

"We had a great time and would certainly look to do another walking holiday with Encounter."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Gwithian to Padstow Name: David Gwyn-Jones Walked on: 4th June 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Boscastle to Fowey Name: Bill Arnold Walked on: 22nd May 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Planning: Encounter did a wonderful job helping us plan our trip. We had just under 3 weeks to visit Cornwall. They helped us develop an excellent itinerary. Each section of the coastline we visited, was chosen to allow us to walk and experience as many of the highlights of both the wild & scenic north and the beautiful tropical south coastlines that we could fit into 18 days (also including some needed rest days). The very detailed daily itinerary they provided was spot on. Booking: Everything went as planned. Excellent job! "

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Great information."

Your Walking Routes

"As said above, each section of the coastline we visited, was chosen to allow us to walk and experience as many of the highlights of both the wild & scenic north and the beautiful tropical south coastlines "

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"The trip itinerary was very detailed for each day. It included notes for the day informing us what to expect. It graded each walk as to length and difficulty. Excellent route descriptions, pointing out some highlights to see along the way. It included places for refreshments if available, and/or bailout points if needed. Also has bus and taxi info with telephone numbers. It described our accommodations for the night, and included suggestions for meals (along with phone numbers to make reservations). We found the maps to be ok, but mainly used a phone app called Gaia GPS which always showed exactly where we were on the trail along with other connecting trails and shortcuts if needed. An excellent app. Another phone app we used was First Bus, which was developed by the local bus companies. It shows how to get from one point to another, how long it will take, optional buses to use, where to pick up the bus, and the time the bus would be at the stop (which was spot on!) It even how long it would take to walk to and from the stops, including a map of the route. The bus system is wonderful. Highly recommend it’s use."

Luggage transfers

"Worked as planned."

Accommodation

"Most were excellent and exactly as described."

Overall experience

"We had a wonderful time. The Cornwall coast is beautiful. The towns a delight. And the people we met were some of the friendliest people we’ve ever experienced."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: SWCP Brixham-Lyme Regis Name: Andrea Ledergerber Walked on: 21st May 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"As always, friendly, most flexible and ready to help."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"Make sure you check with the ferries if and until when they run. There are alternatives for the Ferry from Starcross to Exmouth, to avoid the walk from Dawlish Warren to Starcross, which we found not too nice, it being mostly on or next to the rather busy road (water taxi, or take the train directly if no ferries are available)."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"The path is also very well marked, so no problems there. "

Luggage transfers

"Sometimes a bit early, but our friendly hosts always helped to save the day."

Accommodation

"We may be a bit exacting in this respect, but accommodation is quite important to us. We find the price-performance ration rather unfavourable. So overall a generous 3* from me, but I must mention the Manor Hotel in Exmouth, where we had lovely rooms, and also the Mariner's, where I had a lovely room and the staff were just the best! Certainly the lowest point was the accommodation in Beer, for both the rooms and the staff."

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Porthmadog to Machynlleth Name: Julian Thompson Walked on: 20th May 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"I've used Encounter for around 10 years and as usual extremely accurate and detailed planning around route and accommodation no issues at all."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Good day by day guide to the walk as a taster comprehensive maps and daily route guides to supplement"

Your Walking Routes

"Welsh (Snowdonia) Coast Path from Porthmadog to Machynlleth some excellent days particularly the day into Barmouth (we went Mountain route and can recommend, however a couple of days which have the feeling of "fillers" being more inland and perhaps used to link the better days"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Very comprehensive and accurate, itinerary from someone who has obviously done it and is familiar the issues."

Luggage transfers

"Seemless."

Accommodation

"Genrally very good however the B&B in Barmouth although clean and friendly staff was extremely tired."

Overall experience

"A feel of the West Highland Way combined with the SWCP however not quite as good as either if you want Mountains go WHW if you want a coastal path go SWCP"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: SWCP: Landsend Name: Savi Alex Walked on: 19th May 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Damon and team were so very helpful in customizing our trip so that we could have some extra days to sight see and enjoy . They are very professional and found ways to accommodate our requests or made suggestions so that we cud modify our plans."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"The website was very helpful to see the elevation of the hikes and to determine what we were capable of given our age and fitness level. We are so happy that we chose the route that we did."

Your Walking Routes

"We walked from St. Ives to Penzance. We are two seniors i.e. in our 60's. This is a tough route with a lot of ups and downs; walking over loose rocks; scrambling over boulders and navigating over streams in mud and some cases unsteady footing. A good pair of knees are essential. We were lucky with the weather and were able to hike as we had planned and did not miss a single day of walking. But, we had to contend with very high winds on two days; rain and fog one day. We were fully prepared with raingear. However, we did not have to use our rain pants."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"We did get lost twice, which added to our mileage. The second time we got lost, we wandered through some beautiful natural woods. We had to retrace our steps which added 2 miles to the walk. Luckily for us we met a gentleman who was planning on doing the same hike and hiked with us part way. This was an added bonus!"

Luggage transfers

"I can't say enough good thing about the luggage transfers. Our luggage was always there when we arrived. Sometimes in our rooms; sometimes in the hallway. Thank you to luggage transfers."

Accommodation

"Most of the accommodation was good. We enjoyed the Tregenna Castle location and setting. We loved the location and exceptional food at Gurnard's Head. The proprietors were very accommodating. The Field House went out of their way to make sure our stay was comfortable and we had the best room at the Ship Inn. They were also very helpful. Nearly all the proprietors and staff were so very friendly and helpful."

Overall experience

"Fantastic. We will never forget the wild beauty of the Cornish coast and the friendliness of the people. I am really glad that we chose this segment as our first experience of the SWCP. We also included St Michael's Mount, which was another highlight of the trip. The fact that we did not have to reach out to encounter walking during our trip, tells you how well the whole trip was organized! "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Mevagissey to Exmouth Name: Keith Ware Walked on: 17th May 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Kept well informed of progress in booking etc."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Didn't need to access the site before or during the walk. "

Your Walking Routes

"One or two diversions but not a problem."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Trail Guide is essential"

Luggage transfers

"Always at my destination each day."

Accommodation

"Overall the accommodation was good with a wide range of what was on offer for breakfast. The breakfast in the B&B in Mevagissey was very poor. The room in Plymouth was a bit small."

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Minehead to Instow Name: Gwen and Paul Buch Walked on: 17th May 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Damon and the team were extremely helpful and very prompt in responding to our queries, even though it was a very busy time with everyone wanting to book post Covid restrictions. They're a great team!"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Found the walk descriptions and options for standard, slow and fast hikes really helpful in planning our trip."

Your Walking Routes

"We took the "strenuous option" Minehead to Porlock Weir Village...and it was so worth it!! The first three days through to Combe Martin are filled with tough climbs, but the views of the landscape make the climbs worth the effort. You definitely need to have a reasonable level of fitness, especially if carrying a bit of weight in your pack. Minehead to Instow has a bit of everything and has some spectacular scenery...well except perhaps for the tail end heading into Instow, which was a little uninspiring. All round a fabulous walk; we can't wait to come back to do more!"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"The walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary were all very helpful and provided well detailed instructions on the walk, detours etc. Although the walk is generally well sign posted, the notes and maps helped us out on occasion when the way forward wasn't so obvious."

Luggage transfers

"Absolutely no problems with luggage transfers, bags arrived before us every day."

Accommodation

"All of our accommodation was of a really high standard, clean, comfortable and the service provided was very good. The only issue for us was in Woolacombe, the hotel was gorgeous, food and service excellent, but unfortunately the bed was very uncomfortable (and we weren't the only ones who commented on this at checkout). The staff were very apologetic and indicated they would advise management, so hopefully they upgrade mattresses soon, because it is otherwise a great hotel. "

Overall experience

"This was our second time to do the SWCP with Encounter Walking, and our experience was excellent on both holidays. The team is very professional and was supportive in trying to arrange the trip to suit our needs. I can't wait to get back again soon to do another section of the SWCP!"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Barnstaple - Bude Name: Gabriele Walked on: 14th May 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Always helpful and fast to answer. "

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Very good, contains lots of valuable information"

Your Walking Routes

"The route from Barnstaple to Bude has a wide variety of scenery - from all flat around the Taw and Torridge estuary to some of the most challenging parts with continuous ups and downs. I chose Barnstaple as a starting point because it's easily reachable by train from Exeter, and from Bude there is a bus going to Exeter St Davids. Although the first 2 days the walking was flat and mostly on tarmac, I didn't find that boring because there is a lot about industrial history of the area to discover, like Fremington Quay and Bideford. After Westward Ho! the walking gets more challenging, with some nice woodlands included. Clovelly of course is a very special place, I had a resting day there and there is a lot to see, so that was a good choice. Be sure not to miss the donkeys and the gardens. After Hartland Point it's the Coast Path at it's best. I decided to split the part from Hartland Quay and Bude with a night in Morwenstow, which I would highly recommend, because the Bush Inn and St. Morwenna Church as well as a cream tea at The Rectory Farm are not to be missed. "

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Very helpful, the Trail Blazer books are simply the best!"

Luggage transfers

"Worked perfectly and always delivered on time."

Accommodation

"Very good over all, with the Instow Barton B&B my personal favourite. Beautiful location, and the best breakfast I ever had. Also great: The Bush Inn and the Red Lion Hotel (although the price is breath taking)"

Overall experience

"I had a great week, already planning my next section :-)"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Minehead to Bude Name: Tess Tyzuk Walked on: 12th May 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Excellent! Speedy response, and we really liked being able to check out the accomodation options before booking."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Easy to navigate, well organised"

Your Walking Routes

"The path is well marked. Occasionally there was slight confusion leaving towns, eg. Combe Martin. The walking from Lynmouth to Combe Martin had some very narrow paths on cliff sides, scary for those of us not liking heights!"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Very good. We liked the daily route notes, and found them excellent for planning stops etc."

Luggage transfers

"Worked smoothly, no issues"

Accommodation

"Most accomodation was very good. Below average were the B&B at Combe Martin and Woolacombe. Locanda on the Weir at Porlock was fantastic, as was Brookfield B&B in Braunton."

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Hartland Quay to Padstow Name: Daphne Hodgins Walked on: 12th May 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Encounter was great to work with. We changed our walk details due to covid cancellations and they were on it every time with excellent recommendations and thorough planning. All of our bookings were accurate when we arrived. "

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"There is a lot of great information on the website, which was really helpful during the planning stages. "

Your Walking Routes

"The routes were stunningly beautiful and well marked. "

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Detailed notes about each day were very helpful and thorough. The Encounter crew provided excellent materials that we used throughout our walk. "

Luggage transfers

"Reliable and accurate. "

Accommodation

"Accommodations were great and in many cases the establishments had restaurants, all of which were excellent. "

Overall experience

"An outstanding experience and one which I will recommend to anyone who likes to walk. "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Falmouth - Plymouth Name: Uschi Kessler Walked on: 11th May 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"as in the last years always very good"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"it is useful to have google maps as a lot of signs were missing - but to walk on the SWCP is even always great"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

"the accommodation in Fowey can absolutely not be recommended - all other accommodation were so great"

Overall experience

"It is my greatest whish to finish the SWCP in 2024 or 2025 and I just look forward to my walk next year"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: padstow to st ives Name: keith alan drinkwater Walked on: 11th May 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

"generally fine but hotel in hayle was a tad weird "

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Lyme Regis to Poole including Undercliff and Portland Name: Pete & Vicki R Walked on: 11th May 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Easy to work with and receptive to our ideas and questions. This is our second walk with Encounters."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Lots of good information about each walk."

Your Walking Routes

"Jurassic Coast was beautiful! Although challenging at times, we were able to manage each day quite well. We timed our walk so we could travel the section called the Range (only open on weekends and holidays). Well worth doing this. We added several rest days which lengthened our trip to 12 days. A day off to visit Tynham and Corfe castle was well worth the cab fare and time. Accessing Tynham while walking and completing the range portion would have made for a very long day! "

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Chesil Beach is very pretty to walk but the pebbles do get tiresome. We learned from a local that there is a "summer route" that parallels the beach and is much easier to walk. We hopped on this after about 2 miles of pebbles! "

Luggage transfers

"Seemless!"

Accommodation

"We chose several of the upgrade options and were happy with our selection. Hotel Du Vin in Poole was excellent and a great choice for our last night."

Overall experience

"We walked the Padstow to Penzance sections before Covid and were happy to finally get back this year for the Jurassic Coast.! We found this walk to be equally as good, if not better!"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: SWCP Lands End to Barnstaple (Reverse Direction) Name: John & Maggie Muir Walked on: 10th May 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Very well organised, walking notes very good , accommodation and luggage transfer excellent "

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Very easy to navigate and very informative "

Your Walking Routes

"If possible walk with the prevailing wind even if this in the opposite direction of the guide books. The SWCP reverse guide is very good giving the opposite direction notes."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Very well supplied and plenty of notes on each days walk OS Maps Adventure Series are very good to use "

Luggage transfers

"No issues Luggage always there on time"

Accommodation

"First Class excellent "

Overall experience

"Great Holiday ,hard walking in places but very well rewarded with wonderful scenery and meeting lots of friendly fellow walkers "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Hartland Quay to St Ives Name: Mary Letson Walked on: 10th May 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Just returned from my 5th walking adventure with Encounter and once again it was a success. Thanks Encounter Crew!"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"Heartland Quay to Padstow: make sure you are good and fit for this route and don't mind narrow, goat-path-like sections! I have now completed the entire Cornwall Coast path, and this section tested my fitness (and courage) the most. But worth it every step of the way - absolutely stunning coastline vistas. Lovely Inns along the way. So wild and remote."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Encounter's plan was seamless as always. Once on the trail, I relied on my OS app to navigate. Brilliant technology and grateful for it!"

Luggage transfers

"Go light! Pack carefully! Have wheels! There are narrow stairways to climb (and lots of them) with lots of twisty routes through sometimes ancient places with many fire doors to negotiate."

Accommodation

"Better this year than I can ever remember!"

Overall experience

"Brilliant as always. A few things: 1) if you are planning taxi transfers and using your phone at a pub, check in advance that there is mobile service in that location. Hollywell Bay has no mobile service and the Gull Rocks Bar (right on the beach) doesn't have a phone you can use. Treguth Pub up the road does. And they are lovely. 2) Make sure you use taxi's in the local area - and if possible get a quote if you have some distance to cover! 3) I used walking sticks for the first time this year. I am a fit 60 yr old and didn't think I needed them. But they absolutely improved my walking experience. Highly recommend! "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Lyme Regis to Poole Name: Ann McMurray Walked on: 10th May 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Very efficient and always responsive "

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"SWCP hard to beat."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Some maps could have been better (e.g. route up to hotel on Isle of Portland). Also additional markers would have been helpful (e.g. route from Worth Matravers to Swannage, took a wrong turn inland at a fork when the turn intended was a mile or two later)."

Luggage transfers

"Always at the next stop; never a problem."

Accommodation

"Especially liked Lulworth Cover Inn!"

Overall experience

"Fabulous!"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Mevagissey to Babbacombe Name: David and Linda Walked on: 7th May 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Delivered a walking holiday according to our requirements. It was good to view the suggested accommodation on offer before going ahead with the booking, as well as being given alternative choices or upgrades."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Very informative."

Your Walking Routes

"The SWCP is a superb long-distance walking path. Very well maintained and is well-signposted. Walking tip: If staying at the Finnygook Inn at Crafthole, and you are walking west to east, instead of walking up the road from Portwrinkle, stay on the Coast Path out of Portwrinkle and at the top of the hill take the first signed path left across the golf course. That way you avoid some road walking and you don't have to return to sea level the next day."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Good, detailed itinerary. The directions to each overnight accommodation were clear and accurate."

Luggage transfers

"Brilliant service!"

Accommodation

"All accommodation was suitable for a one night stay, being clean and comfortable in all cases. "

Overall experience

"Superb. Enabled us to have a fun, stress-free walking holiday."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Porthcothan to Portreath Name: Nick H Walked on: 4th May 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Our first time back (just the four of us this year) since 2019 due to lockdowns etc. Everything was as great as ever with you and your team."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Full of useful information and great back up from Damon and the team."

Your Walking Routes

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Spot on and made the detailing of our daily schedules so easy."

Luggage transfers

"Totally hassle free."

Accommodation

"Just what you need at the end of each day."

Overall experience

"As with all the tours you've organised for us everything was made easy for us. Your professional team make the whole experience very enjoyable. As always we'll be back."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Brixham to Poole Name: andrew wright Walked on: 4th May 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"staff very helpful"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"very useful"

Your Walking Routes

"read about the walk before you set off so you get the timing and walk pace right there are often lots of interesting things to see en-routs so allow a bit of extra time"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"all very helpul we use a satmap machine as well which helps with timings and mapreading. make sure you have good maps incase you have to detour"

Luggage transfers

"all worked very smoothly"

Accommodation

"we are quite particular about our accommodation (it is a holiday after all) and encounter did well to find us the type of accommodation that we wanted"

Overall experience

"very enjoyable"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Pembrokeshire Coast Path Name: Edwina Neal Walked on: 3rd May 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Padstow to St. Ives, then overland to Marazion Name: Daphne Hodgins Walked on: 30th April 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Padstow to St Ives; St Michael's Way; Penzance to Falmouth Name: M and J Walked on: 26th April 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"The lead time from enquiring to making a booking late last year was a bit protracted due to team being overwhelmed and COVID issues, which we understood. However it would have been helpful to have put a note on website to that effect to manage expectations- at the time, the website stated 3-day response time which clearly wasn't realistic. However once booking was underway we had great, personal communications with Damon and the team"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Excellent, and used all the information about each day's walking when planning our trip."

Your Walking Routes

"Overall we found the walks strenuous with all the coastal ups and downs (with the exception of the St Michael's Way) and the scenery is spectacular for the most part. Newquay was a bit overwhelming, and the arrival in Hayle is via a construction site so a bit of an anti-climax. The section of the path just before the approach to Perranporth Beach is narrow ,with sheer drops to the sea, so it's scary if you don't have a great head for heights! The short section from Hayle to St Ives was pretty dull so could easily be skipped. We found the section from Padstow to St Ives to be fairly busy with walkers (in particular the first day with lots of local dog walkers) however the following week's walk from Penzance to Falmouth in contrast was quieter with more rugged scenery and unspoilt villages. The St Michael's Way is a really beautiful walk in early May and highly recommend. We found the walking signage to be haphazard and it seemed sparse when leaving settlements. We also ended up on a wild goose chase following signs walking through the dunes on approach to Hayle. Also there was confusion on approach to Mullion Cove where there seemed to be conflicting National Trust walking posts which we mistook for the "official" acorn signs, and we ended up having to back track, putting an extra mile onto our day. A final point not directly relating to the walks but we found the local bus services to be unreliable. "

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"The notes, maps and guidebooks were perfect and we appreciated the direct instructions we were given relating to routes affected by tides. We met other walkers who had booked with other walking companies but they didn't get this level of detail or service! The back up notes we received for the St Michael's Way were crystal clear."

Luggage transfers

"n/a"

Accommodation

"All of the B&Bs and Guesthouses were outstanding, especially Caerthillian Guest House where Austin was a wonderful host, and breakfasts at Chy an Mor in Penzance were a highlight. We had a fantastic meal at Portreath Arms. The other places were OK, apart from our accommodation in Hayle. At best it was clean, but really was sub-standard when compared to other establishments. Our room in Newquay faced onto the main road and was noisy."

Overall experience

"This was a real adventure for us and we thoroughly enjoyed the experience in a stunning landscape. Thanks to Encounter for all the planning to help make this a truly memorable walk for us. "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: South West Coast Path - Minehead to Padstow Name: Richard & Keren Tookey Walked on: 25th April 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"All planning very efficiently done and everything went like clockwork. Very flexible working around our dates and preferences."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Clear and detailed"

Your Walking Routes

"Loved the SWCP and would very highly recommend. Looking forward to starting the next stage in June. Very well waymarked."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Brilliant . Itinerary was very thorough....would have preferred to receive it just a little earlier to give more time to book places for evening meals"

Luggage transfers

"Faultless"

Accommodation

"Superb. We would happily stay in any of them again and several were quite exceptional.....The Slipway Inn at Port Isaac was our absolute favourite, but they were all very good. Our only criticism was that at many places breakfast did not start until 8.30am....we would have preferred to be off earlier on long walking days and in hot weather when we continue in June this is likely to be especially important."

Overall experience

"Fantastic walking. Spectacular scenery Superb organisation. We would totally recommend this walking holiday"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: SW Coast Path - Padstow to Plymouth Name: Diane Winger Walked on: 24th April 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

Your Walking Routes

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: SW Coast Path, Padstow to Plymouth Name: Debra Reef Walked on: 24th April 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? No

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Saints Way (Fowey to Padstow) and SWCP Padstow to Westward Ho! Name: Chris Walked on: 23rd April 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Being able to see all accommodation during booking is a definite advantage over other companies I have used."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"My opinion is views on Saints Way better going south to north (with sun behind you) especially on final descents towards Padstow. A 5 minute diversion to the quay at Golant worth it as nice spot for a break. Instead of following road through Lantyan I followed some lovely Woodland Trust paths through Lantyan Wood and Milltown Wood emerging underneath the railway viaduct. On edge of Padstow I followed footpath to join Camel Trail for final section instead of following road into Padstow."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Between Tregustick and Higher Bosneives the route does not exactly follow path shown on map. In particular the stile over fence into last field before Higher Bosneives is not in the middle of the fence but about 200yds east in the corner of field. The path to the beach at Tintagel is currently closed. Path diversion at Upton now looks to be permanent as signs indicate the "path has been realigned". I believe the suggested detour close to Black Church Rock has been closed."

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

"All accommodation was of good to excellent standard. Best was Moran's at Westward Ho! followed by Links Side at Bude."

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Pembrokeshire coastal path, middle section Name: Elaine Walked on: 23rd April 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"From the very start of the process over a year ago all the Encounter staff were very helpful and obviously very knowledgeable. Their tips and knowledge helped us plan a wonderful trip. During all the covid uncertainty they were also very realistic and helpful. All of our questions were answered very quickly and thoroughly."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"I found this easy to navigate and helpful."

Your Walking Routes

"We did from Dale to Porthgain. Stunning scenery! It was everything we had hoped for and because of all the information from Encounter prior to leaving we felt and indeed were, well prepared."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"The itinerary was perfect. Each day was very manageable and the notes in the guidebooks were accurate."

Luggage transfers

"Worked perfectly. Our bags were always there when we arrived at the next destination."

Accommodation

"All of our accommodation was good. Rooms were clean and pleasant. Breakfasts delicious and property owners very helpful. "

Overall experience

"This was a wonderful vacation and having Encounter do the arrangements for us made it so much easier and therefore more pleasant. It all went incredibly smoothly."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: SW Coast Path. Minehead to Combe Martin Name: Phil Walked on: 20th April 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"The Encounter team were very helpful. They were able to change our Combe Martin accommodation at very short notice as our original choice, Blair Lodge reported they had COVID. The alternative at the Pack 'O' Cards Inn was actually the best nights stay of all."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Very helpful and informative Website, though I did not use it much."

Your Walking Routes

"Generally very good although there were major detours on the Porlock to Lynton stretch due to many fallen trees following Storm Eunice."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"All the material provided was excellent. However, for most of my navigation I used a map published by Croyde Cycle specifically for the Coast path at a scale of 1:15000, much bigger scale than OS Maps and very accurate, with additional information in note form on the map, which was printed on water resistant paper too."

Luggage transfers

"All worked perfectly."

Accommodation

"All very good for me, but my friend had some problems at the hotel in Lynton (1st room turned out not to be ready. 2nd room given had big hole in window. 3rd Room was OK but not the greatest). My favourites were The Top Ship Inn, in Porlock and The Pack 'O' Cards Inn in Combe Martin."

Overall experience

"This was our first time doing a continuous walk with luggage transfers and thanks to the help and organisation from Encounter we both felt it was a great experience, and look forward to tackling the next section of the coast path in similar fashion."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Westward Ho! to Padstow Name: Virginia Bowers Walked on: 19th April 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Very helpful especially as Crackington Haven had no rooms and had to get back to Bude for an extra night."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Didn't use during the walk."

Your Walking Routes

"Absolutely lovely. Clovelly was a gem. Lots of dinner options there as well. Can't think of anything that we didn't like. Had amazing weather. Wildflowers were blooming. "

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Didn't use the maps much but the guidebook was very useful, although a few things were out of date such as restaurants that had closed. The itinerary was very helpful."

Luggage transfers

"No problems there."

Accommodation

"All the inns and hotels were nice. All were clean and quiet. Really enjoyed our stay in Bude at the Surf Haven - just delightful hosts. And the room in Port Isaac's school house inn was very spacious and had a private deck for an afternoon drink. Our hotel in Boscastle was the only one that had some minor issues - heat didn't work and the bathroom was a bit cramped. "

Overall experience

"Overall, we had a great time. No problem with wayfinding. Hiking was challenging but that made the rest at the end all the more enjoyable. "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Two Moors Way Name: scott roberts Walked on: 19th April 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Thoroughly brilliant service ,5 star"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Prompt and very efficient , Easy to navigate, 5 star"

Your Walking Routes

"Trust your map and compass"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"utilising the very well written and thoroughly researched guide book s and maps, enabled and enhanced an altogether superb experience"

Luggage transfers

"5 star caring and prompt service, by Robin and his merry men"

Accommodation

"night 1; Sportsmen Ivybridge.. Good chef (dinner and breakfast ) good room and general facilities, helpful staff 4 star. night 2.Tradesmens arms Scorriton. Brilliant in every way. kind helpful and superb rooms very well appointed . Suzy is marvellous . 5stars. Night 3.. Higher Venton farm, Widecombe in the moor.. Best nights sleep ever, fantastic host (Margaret). amazingly located historic farm stacks of info, and simply the best continental breakfast ever. Evening meal with Richard at Rugglestone inn 400yds from higher venton farm 5stars+.. Night 4. Drewsteighnton. after a longish day, i was really looking forward to hot shower and comfy bed.! neither of these were achieved easily . the tiny cold "bunk" room was very poorly appointed (no tea /coffee /milk etc and no furniture at all.. bags on the floor no bedside table or side light) shower not working, twice, !? average meal. smell of stale cigarettes everywhere . metal bunk bed poor bedding. 1 star as barmen was apologetic. .Night 5. Devonshire dumpling Morchard road. Brilliant, "born to host" Laura and team perfect in every way , helpful polite Superb room everything a tired walker could need, great shower superb bed, great meal on site and a great self serice continental. allowing for an early start. 5 star .Night 6; Mitre inn Witheridge. Pefect host Mike and chef Chaz, great room good facilities, good food great breakfast. very enjoyable stay for 2 nights 5star. Night 8, Partridge arms farm b&b. Truly wonderful experience, provided a delightful 2 course meal at very short notice all homemade super fresh and much needed. Banger and Tim. Perfection , the trail goes right pass the farm. literally. great room and facilities 5 star +.. night 9 and 10. Royal oak Withypool. set right upon the trail, this historically important inn is an an absolute goldmine of history, a poets dream space for sure. very walker friendly and beautifully appointed in every possible way, exceptionally accomadating staff and a wonderful menu, this is the walkers heaven. Dan and team 5STAR +.. Night 11. St vincents guest house Lynton Clive and Maria, complete naturals and brilliant hosts highly recommended lovely rooms , fantastic location excelllent breakfast choices 5 star +. "

Overall experience

"Life enhancing 11 day adventure"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Southwest Coast Path - Mevagissy to Looe Name: Janet Sutton Walked on: 16th April 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Everything was great as usual except for one thing. We received the 102 OS map instead of the 107 OS map. Since it was a coastal path, this didn't cause a problem as the trail is easy to follow and we used the OS app where there was a question, but I like to post the map on my wall when I get home. "

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Coleridge Way Name: Renee Alberts Walked on: 15th April 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"We chose days with 23- 24km per day and with hindsight it was a bit too long for some of our party."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

"The Ancient Mariner was a little more basic and the food less good than the other nights. Notley Arms, Exmoor House and Snow's Orchard were all excellent."

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Jurassic Coast - Exmouth to Abbotsbury Name: Joanne Hedger Walked on: 15th March 2022

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Be sure to tell them your ability level - they made a massive assumption with mine and I failed to check it, so I found I was chasing daylight trying to keep on schedule with the itinerary most days."
 
Encounter Walking - we are sorry if you found the walk too challenging - we sent you a plan with the daily distances beforehand and we rely on you to tell us if you think the distances are too much for you.

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Didn't really use it"

Your Walking Routes

"The Jurassic Coast is tough. Mainly climbing and descending - every day for hours! I did enjoy it, but if you don't like cliff climbing, this is NOT the walk for you, but the path is well maintained and clearly marked. Don't really need to consult the map too often."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Excellent information, maps and guidebooks provided, but sadly they took too long to arrive, so I didn't have enough time to read them properly before my trip which was a shame."
 
Encounter Walking - we posted your books the day after your holiday was booked and a month before your walk started so we are not sure why they took so long to arrive.

Luggage transfers

"No problems at all."

Accommodation

"For the money I paid, I quickly realised there were much better options available. Talking to the accommodation owners it was clear that Encounter put a high markup on the room rates, and me being a lone walker, this was tough to take."
 
Encounter Walking - We don't mark up room rates and we keep the costs as low as we can for single walkers as we understand that these holidays can work out more expensive for those who are walking solo with no-one to share costs. Our no-obligation quotes include links to the accommodation website so walkers can check this before deciding whether to go ahead and book with us and for those walkers who want to keep their costs down we are always happy to provide free advice to help walkers who want to make their own bookings.

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? No

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? No

Route: Coleridge Way Name: Judy D Walked on: 21st January 2022

Everything was great.  Really enjoyed this winter walk and a good start to walking in 2022.  Appreciated quick response to my last minute booking.  Accommodations all fine and easy to find on the route, good food.  (Ancient Mariner has no heating in the rooms apart from a couple of oil heaters which, as they aren’t turned on prior to check in, took hours to warm up. Rooms modern and large. No food on Mondays) Lots of variety of scenery.  

Quiet tracks even at the weekend.  Lots of tempting walking trails in this area and pretty villages.  Instructions, guide book and route map useful though the trail is very well signed (apart from the Dunkery Beacon option where the signs differed from the gpx file but I was able to figure it out from the description in the guide book).  Great service from Encounter, would recommend etc etc.

Route: Padstow to St Ives Name: Robert and Laura Walked on: 14th October 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"No surprises and some helpful tips in the material received prior, esp the need for a map case - it rained."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Didn't really use it"

Your Walking Routes

"After the first day, we only used the Coastal path book, the ordinance survey maps were surplus to requirements, but nice to have. 2 nights in Padstow was a good start as it gave us a chance to pick up a few supplies that we had forgotten, e.g. a knee brace from the pharmacy and an extra pair of walking trousers. The route is great. Usually open path and lovely of cliffs and beaches. Nice mix of shorter days and longer ones. We are both 70, one with a slightly dodgy knee, so very manageable."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Everything that was required. However, we did sometimes get lost leaving town. Suggest asking the way when checking out."

Luggage transfers

"Perfect"

Accommodation

"All good. Some were eccentric - the B&B in Hayle, but v welcoming and would stay again. The ones with baths were a treat."

Overall experience

"A very enjoyable trip. It was autumn, so some rain. Perfect walking temperature. "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Mendip Way Name: Cathy Walked on: 8th October 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Good communication and very detailed itinerary"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"Good length and well marked route"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Very detailed and upto date notes and itinerary. Didn't have the guidebooks"

Luggage transfers

"Very smooth"

Accommodation

"First night's accomodation in Weston wasn't great (have provided seperate feedback) but second two nights were excellent."

Overall experience

"Very smooth booking process and well organised trip with detailed itinerary and lots of good advice and recommendations - thank you."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Bude - Padstow Name: Gabriele Foerster Walked on: 3rd October 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"The team was very helpful, all my questions were answered promptly. Since I had booked in 2020 before the pandemic started everything had to be postponed and I had to choose a different route, but that wasn't a problem at all."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Didn't use the website much, but I think it contains a lot of helpful information."

Your Walking Routes

"I walked from Bude to Pastow in 7 days with a rest day in Tintagel. Since I am a slow walker, taking lots of pictures, I preferred rather short distances and also had a rest day in Tintagel. This is said to be one of the harder parts of the Cornish Coast Path, but with enough time it is manageable. That way I had time to explore the places and visit some museums (highly recommend the Bude Heritage Center and the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic in Boscastle and of course Tintagel Castle). The weather was a nice mix of wind, rain and sun, but the rain made the path quite slippery in places, so walking poles are very helpful. "

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"I really love the Trailblazer Guide Books, the are full of information and special hints . "

Luggage transfers

"Worked perfect."

Accommodation

"Very good, my favourites were the Links Side Tea House in Bude and the Wellington Hotel in Boscastle - very good restaurant"

Overall experience

"Already planning my next walk :-)"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: SWCP Weymouth to Poole Name: Tricia & Allan Butcher Walked on: 22nd September 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Really appreciated the extra help given with planning the walk, following Allan's heart attack earlier in the year."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Website was in the planning of our holiday"

Your Walking Routes

"Route around Lulworth Cove, can be walked at any time (even at high tide), but is not waymarked, best to take a path on the other side of the cove up a small gulley."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

"Excellent as always"

Accommodation

"Varied between good and excellent - Hotel du Vin in Poole was a wonderful place to stay at the end of the walk."

Overall experience

"Excellent"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: St Ives to Penzance Name: Hans Hedman Walked on: 21st September 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

Overall experience

"We had a wonderful time. Encounter delivered above and beyond our expectations. Everything went really well. Even the weather was good :-)"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Lyme Regis to Weymouth Name: Judy Woollett Walked on: 20th September 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Excellent"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Good"

Your Walking Routes

"Good although quite a few detours on this route due to cliff falls."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Excellent"

Luggage transfers

"Good"

Accommodation

"All good except the small hotel in Weymouth"

Overall experience

"Loved it"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Coleridge Way Name: Sibyl Ruth Walked on: 17th September 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"As I'd not booked a self-guided walking holiday before I appreciated the detailed help and information which was provided."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"I didn't really use the site much after a quick preliminary browse - as it was then all about getting our own individual trip sorted."

Your Walking Routes

"Our compass was useful! Even though the ascents aren't steep, the ground is uneven so I was glad I opted for my heavier walking boots."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"All these were very clear. (The sole error occurred when our instructions told us to turn left - rather than right - to get to our overnight accommodation in Williton.)"

Luggage transfers

"On one day the luggage transfer person showed up at 9am when we were still eating our breakfast. But apart from that everything went smoothly."

Accommodation

"Staying in old pubs, coaching inns etc was one of the most enjoyable features of the holiday."

Overall experience

"The Coleridge Way is a wonderful and varied trail. It was gloriously green and peaceful. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys walking and exploring the countryside. NB. We did the walk at the 'relaxed pace'. This might not work for everyone, but it does mean you can take plenty of time to do optional diversions, enjoy the views etc!"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: SW Coast Path - Marazion to Falmouth Name: Paul Walked on: 13th September 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"An easy and very helpful process, with lots of tips making for a great service. As usual, everything ran like clockwork."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"Highlight - the Gillan Creek and Helford River stretch between Porthallow and Helford. We were lucky to catch low tide and wade across Gillan Creek. Tip 1- pack some water shoes if you have them, as makes the low tide crossing at Gillan Creek easier. Tip 2 - approaching Coverack, follow the signs for the Sculpture Gardens/Park, to avoid a steep, rocky decent into Porthbeer Cove. By chance we had a local resident pass us on route and took their advice. We subsequently spoke to several locals, who seem to regard the official path unnecessarily dangerous. Ironically, travelling East to West, there is official SW Path signage giving you 2 options. "

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"As always, very helpful, especially some useful detail regarding bus routes as our itinerary partly used our bus passes!!"

Luggage transfers

"Worked well. We also had a couple of taxi transfers built into the schedule, and turned out that the taxi service doubled up with luggage transfer duties as well. Lizard Cars - excellent service. "

Accommodation

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Coleridge Way Name: Patricia Bleasby Walked on: 13th September 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Planning was meticulous and queries were always answered quickly"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"lots of information, easy to follow and most questions answered in FAQs. It also shone through with enthusiasm!"

Your Walking Routes

"the daily notes were very useful, particularly features to look out for and any potential pitfalls that might be encountered. The descriptions of locations of overnight stays were reassuringly accurate and it was nice to be tailor made to my holiday"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"the maps are excellent and with the numbers relating to the route instructions it was easy to tie the two together. The notes would refer to a lane which could mean a bridleway, footpath or a narrow road, I found this disconcerting but the Coleridge Way signs were usually present to offer reassurance. The walking notes though were generally very good"

Luggage transfers

"Always good. Not only was bag there on arrival but in my room too. A real bonus at the end of a tiring day!"

Accommodation

"Two stand out, the Notley Arms and the Rock House both for the friendly welcome and the food, outstanding in both cases. All accommodation was clean and perfectly suitable."

Overall experience

"I loved the walk. It offered everything - heathland, woodland, glorious rolling countryside, rivers, the coast and Exmoor. You can't ask for more!"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Falmouth to Penzance (5 days) Name: Rhiannon Morris Walked on: 13th September 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Vey well organised. Given ample information and able to accommodate our desire to walk the Penzance to Falmouth route in the 'wrong' direction. Very personalised service and all important info sent on in a timely fashion. During the walk itself, everything went very smoothly with no hiccups at all"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Easy to navigate and decide on what walk would suit you best - after initial enquires, we had a very personalised service which was great."

Your Walking Routes

"Great coastline walks, some sections quite challenging and you need a certian level of fitness and agility to manage but some breathtaking views and very peaceful. We were looking forward to this walk and we were not disappointed in any regard"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Great provision of useful maps and information."

Luggage transfers

"No issues at all. Luggage pick up was arranged when we disembarked from the Night Riviera sleeper train at 8.15am at Falmouth station so we could set off walking early on day 1. Superb"

Accommodation

"High quality accommodation for each night, some with the best sea views I have ever had. The hotels at Coverack and by the Lizard were spectacular"

Overall experience

"Just brilliant all round. Already planning our trip for 2022..."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: SW Coast Path Minehead to Combe Martin Name: Linda D Walked on: 13th September 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Staff extremely knowledgeable and helpful with all aspects of the route."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"We chose to have a rest day at each location which gave us time to relax and prepare for next section. Section 1 - Minehead to Porlock Weir - sometimes not sure if on correct path as signage confusing. Took wrong path into Porlock and then signage misleading as had a notice to say 'no entry to coastal path' which was actually for cars. This meant we walked quite a long way to get back on the path to Porlock Weir. Stayed at Porlock Weir Hotel and had room overlooking harbour - fabulous. Section 2 - Porlock Weir to Lynmouth -Beautiful ancient woodland but walk very tough as lots of gradients. Started at 9.30am and arrived at accommodation at 6pm. Exhausted. Section 3 - Lynmouth to Heddon Valley - Perfect distance for us and stunning views. We initially booked to complete section Lynmouth to Combe Martin in 1 day but having looked at distance and terrain talked to Encounter Holidays who recommended a stop at Heddon Valley. If you want to have time to take in the views then recommend a stop at Heddon Valley. Section 4 - Heddon Valley to Combe Martin - Beautiful walk and stunning views. Chose to stay at Lion House B&B in Combe Martin which was 1 mile inland from coastal path but as this was our final destination did not matter and highly recommend."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Guide books and maps very good"

Luggage transfers

"Excellent"

Accommodation

"Porlock Weir Hotel fabulous. Rising Sun Lynmouth very good but restaurant was closed. Hunters Inn Heddon Valley excellent. Lion House B&B excellent."

Overall experience

"This is our 1st experience of walking a coastal path with luggage transfers and we thoroughly enjoyed it and plan to walk some more sections next year."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Minehead to Westward Ho! Name: Spencer Walked on: 11th September 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Overall very easy, and very well done. The only issue at all was that we had ideally wanted to walk on the southern part, and it took a while to be told that it wasnt possible with a dog - i thought that would have been a common question"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Easy to use"

Your Walking Routes

"Largely enjoyable. The early part is tougher, but the scenery is magnificent - the walk from Saunton Sands to Braunton was flat, but a long way and fairly uninspiring. Instow to Appledore was a beautiful stretch too"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"OS map wasnt used: the guidebook was very very useful, and interesting. Note, if you have a dog, ignore the "dont go on the beach before end September" when you are in Croyde otherwise you add a good 1.5 miles to your walk and it is badly signposted"

Luggage transfers

"Always there when we arrived"

Accommodation

"Variable - from fantastic (Porlock) to not great at all (Westward Ho!), but overall pretty good, and without exception friendly/helpful staff"

Overall experience

"We had a great week - helped by really good weather - and will definitely be looking to do more walks of this type in the future. In this case the only real disappointment was that the route finished in Westward Ho! - not somewhere I would suggest anyone finishes"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Coleridge Way Name: Ann & Bernie Gibbons plus 4 friends Walked on: 11th September 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Everything booked and confirmed very efficiently, even though we changed our arrangements a couple of times and added some complications! Very well done"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Comprehensive website with plenty of info"

Your Walking Routes

"Really great views and varied countryside. This walk was better than anticipated. Some climbs but nothing too daunting."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"All excellent"

Luggage transfers

"Spot on every time!"

Accommodation

"All good. There were some covid restrictions, such as mask wearing, but this did not hamper our enjoyment of the holiday. All the meals were good, no complaints whatsoever."

Overall experience

"A very enjoyable experience"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Sidmouth to West Bay Name: deb Walked on: 10th September 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Very responsive, individualized attention, from choosing the walk to booking accommodations, especially with Covid in the background. We are from the US and were waiting for UK quarantine to be lifted (it was) and EWH gave us until the absolute last second to complete our payment which was greatly appreciated."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Really descriptive, very helpful information about what to expect along the route. Pay attention to the walking grades listed, they're extremely accurate!"

Your Walking Routes

"Absolutely stunning scenery, so worth the dramatic ups & downs. For the vast majority of the trip, clearly marked paths, easy to locate the acorn signage. Just one snag. Walking out of Lyme Regis and getting up Stonebarrow Lane outside Charmouth to regain the Path due to the cliff diversions in the area was frustrating, confusing and added significantly to an already long day. That journey might be made a little more clear, and there's way too much road walking. Take a cab straight to the top of Stonebarrow Ln from Lyme Regis! You won't miss a thing. Definitely strenuous out of the gate in Sidmouth! The SWCP distances given are accurate, so adding in "ordinary walking" for a little sightseeing in the towns we stopped in definitely made each of these days more in the range of 12+ miles. Just something to keep in mind. I wish we'd built in a rest day on Day 2 to enjoy the beach in Beer for a day."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"The itinerary was extremely detailed, the guidebook was invaluable, the level of detail kept us on course, do not skip. "

Luggage transfers

"All went very smoothly, one tiny blip quickly remedied after one call to the team and zero inconvenience to us."

Accommodation

"Lovely places, we were given choice of accommodation, options to upgrade, which we did in each town. Hearty breakfasts set us off on the right foot each day. Staff were familiar with walkers and we never worried about leaving our bags and walking out the door each day. Tired at the end of each day, it was easy to stay put and eat where we were staying. My vegetarian/pescatarian husband never had a problem with the meal choices. "

Overall experience

"Can't say enough about Damon & the Encounter Walking Team. we really felt like we were the only people they were looking after the whole trip and were well cared for. Thanks so much for making our first hiking holiday such a fantastic experience. You have a very beautiful country and we can't wait to see more of it!"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Plymouth to Poole Name: Christine Taylor Walked on: 10th September 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"This was quite complicated because of re-booking due to COVID and the timing of ferries along the walk. Everything was faultless - brilliant service by Damon and team. "

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Didn't really use it as this was our third and last SWCP holiday, so clear about our requirements"

Your Walking Routes

"Brilliant and varied. First part long stretches with no habitation. Flat walking and unusual geology along Chesil Beach. Isle of Portland well worth the extra day. Weymouth - Poole hard. We found Lulworth Cove to Worth Maltravers the most difficult day of the whole 630 miles. Tip: Take the ferry from Plymouth to avoid 5 miles of industrial estates."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"All good"

Luggage transfers

"Like magic"

Accommodation

"Overall high standard. Abbey House Abbotsbury particularly good."

Overall experience

"We have now walked from Minehead to Poole in three holidays organised by Encounter. A wonderful experience brilliantly organised"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: SW Coastal Footpath - Minehead to Padstow Name: Stuart Malcolm Offord Walked on: 5th September 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Excellent response and support to our enquiry."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Excellent and informative."

Your Walking Routes

"Route marking generally good outside major built up areas but poor in some towns. Some paths potentially dangerous - loose surface. In places paths were undergoing repair."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Good but some difficulty in finding eating places due to Covid; including the cancellation of a booking just as we arrived at our destination."

Luggage transfers

"Excellent. Our request for an additional transfer whilst on route was expedited very quickly and efficiently."

Accommodation

"Generally to a high standard and beyond our expectation at times. The risk of Covid was a particular concern to the owners at one overnight stop."

Overall experience

"Great experience but very challenging physically at times. Certainly more strenuous than the section between Padstow and Falmouth we walked previously. We look forward to walking further in the future."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Crackington Haven to Newquay Name: Maggie East Walked on: 1st September 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Did not use"

Your Walking Routes

"We stuck to the South West Coastal Path"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Fine"

Luggage transfers

"No problems"

Accommodation

"This was very varied. EG The stay at Treyarnon Youth Hostel could not provide us with any food and we had no warning of this"

Overall experience

"See above"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: The Dartmoor Way Name: Andrew Newsham Walked on: 30th August 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

Overall experience

"My wife and I spent nine wonderful days walking The Dartmoor Way. We started in Buckfastleigh and wound our way anticlockwise around the national park, with a rest day in Lydford to visit the magnificent Lydford Gorge. The final two days were an often breathtaking hike east from Tavistock across the wild high moor. But what sticks in our memories is the incredible variety this route offers. Yes, the moor is a highlight, but it's complemented by stretches of woodland through which cheerful streams burble, the peaceful tranquility of Devon's familiar rural landscape, famous tourist destinations such as Castle Drogo and the county's picturesque towns and villages which punctuate the trail. And its pubs. Oh yes, it's pubs! And I cannot recommend Encounter Walking Holidays too highly. The service is faultless: Explaining what was possible and necessary during the coronavirus crisis; planning and arranging the details of our holiday; the general support before, during and after our visit to Devon. Very impressive and we will book with Encounter Walking again without hesitation."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Coverack to Fowey Name: Simone Suess Walked on: 29th August 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

"Except one in Fowey, all Accommodations were great. "

Overall experience

"Encounter is the best ! We book already for 2022"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Lizard Point to Mevagissey Name: S and K Walked on: 20th August 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"This is the second time we have used Encounter Walking Holidays and we were very happy with the service provided. Despite a long postponement due to Covid 19 we were eventually able to take our holiday as originally planned with very few amendments.."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Helpful website with useful information about the walks."

Your Walking Routes

"Fabulous week on the South West Coast Path."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"The itinerary was great and the notes were very helpful. We had our own maps and guide books"

Luggage transfers

"The luggage always arrived at the right place at the right time. "

Accommodation

"Most of the accommodation was perfect for our needs and the owners were mainly helpful and friendly. I have coeliac disease and all of the accommodation booked were able to provide gluten free options for breakfast. The only disappointment was in Falmouth where breakfast was a tray in our room rather than a proper cooked breakfast."

Overall experience

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Minehead to Westward Ho! Name: Tim Ryder Walked on: 27th July 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

Overall experience

"We had a great time, everything Encounter organised was perfect for us. Luggage transfers, accommodation, maps and other information were all top class. Thank you!"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Cornish Coast Path - Falmouth to Plymouth Name: Richard Wombwell Walked on: 9th July 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"This walk was delayed from 2020 to 2021 which resulted in a number of changes. All of this was handled brilliantly. I really cannot fault the administration. Everything worked out exactly as planned."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"As far as I remember it was fine. Nearly all of our communication was by e-mail."

Your Walking Routes

"We managed to follow the route OK, but I did have the whole route pre-loaded into the GPS on my phone so, at any time, I could see exactly where we were on the OS map. I thought that the waymarking was poor compared with what I am used to in the Chilterns. I would strongly recommend using a GPS to keep on the track."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Superb, especially the Notes."

Luggage transfers

"Worked perfectly. No problems at all."

Accommodation

"Generally, a much higher standard than I expected. Everyone was very welcoming and we were well looked after."

Overall experience

"Very, very good!"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Coleridge Way - Nether Stowey to Porlock 4 days Name: Stella Walked on: 5th July 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Excellent service from everyone at Encounter throughout. Good communication with regard to the added complications of Covid causing postponements etc. Very personal service. All good! Can't fault!"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Fine as far as I can remember but after an initial general look at the website, everything was very individual and done via email."

Your Walking Routes

"Very varied and attractive landscapes/scenery, great views, literary associations. Very very quiet. But quite hard going in places (or was that just us being too old!). Walking surfaces could be challenging - loose stones/rocks, mud, meant you had to watch your footing a lot of the time and take your eye off the scenery. We would fully concur with the underlined warning at point 84 on the route notes. In spite of edging very carefully round the slippery bedrock as best I could I still took a tumble. Another problem we encountered was a fallen tree across the path between points 42 and 43 - we had to get onto hands and knees to crawl under it."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Generally very good. The Zigzag laminated walking maps are excellent. But we did have two incidences where we went seriously wrong having somehow failed to marry the map, route notes, and the signage. The first of these was around Point 22. We can't quite work out how in spite of having got to the layby by the A39 as indicated on the route notes, we ended up heading south round the eastern boundary of the deer park! The second instance was on Day 4 around points 96 and 97. We think the problem here may have been confusing signage. Sometimes the signs we needed were the quill sign but sometimes a blue square and this got confusing. As was also that there could be a red and a blue quills pointing different ways. We discovered the distinction was between walkers and horse riders. Perhaps some explanatory notes about Coleridge Way signage would be a helpful addition to the route notes? The daily notes were very helpful - good to have all the information for the day in one place. They reminded us about booking ahead for evening meals etc and checking if pubs for lunch would be open. We also made use of the taxi numbers! Would recommend booking well ahead for taxi return to car on last day."

Luggage transfers

"All fine."

Accommodation

"We were very happy with all the places we stayed. Everyone was very welcoming and helpful. The rooms at The Valiant Soldier were particularly spacious and well appointed (newly done I think). The rooms at The White House Williton were small but OK for one night and the staff were extremely helpful there so no complaints. Each place was very different which was nice. "

Overall experience

"Challenging but really very enjoyable. We'd like to go back and explore the area further in a more leisurely fashion. It was so quiet and the scenery so varied. We'd definitely recommend the area and the Coleridge Way gives you an excellent way of experiencing the varied landscapes and staying in some lovely villages. "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Mendip Way Name: Annie Singer and Steph Thomas Walked on: 1st July 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Very straightforward process. The staff at Encounter Walking Holidays are very friendly, helpful and efficient."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Easy to navigate with very useful descriptions of possible walks to choose from."

Your Walking Routes

"The Mendip Way enables you to see superb panoramic views most days. Spending some time in Wells was a bonus."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Excellent support which helped tremendously for our planning stage and during the walk"

Luggage transfers

"Very efficient and reliable"

Accommodation

"Very comfortable and clean accommodation with welcoming owners. Some even took our luggage to our rooms - so helpful after a long day's walk!"

Overall experience

"My first long distance walk apart from our local ones in Cornwall. I had such a brilliant experience that it has whetted my appetite to do one every year."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Coleridge way Name: Stephen Selley Walked on: 28th June 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"Very varied and enjoyable route. We did average of 14 miles a day which typically meant 8 hours walking with short breaks."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"We already had maps etc, but the itinerary notes were spot on and helped us plan ahead."

Luggage transfers

"Worked perfectly - thank you"

Accommodation

"Really good accommodation. Very welcoming. Enjoyed our overnight stops."

Overall experience

"Thank you once again. This is the third time I have walked with Encounter: highly recommended. "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Lyme Regis to Poole Name: Peter Ashworth Walked on: 28th June 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"covid caused the walk to be moved from last year. I had no direct contact with encounter walking but I know my friend I walked with found them friendly, efficient, and our preferences were catered for."

Your Walking Routes

"we really enjoyed the walking routs"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"notes and itinerary were excellent."

Luggage transfers

"all fine"

Accommodation

"we stayed in some lovely accommodation, and met some lovely owners and staff. "

Overall experience

"this was my first walking holiday, I'm sure it will not be my last"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Lyme Regis - Poole SWCP Name: JL Thomas Walked on: 28th June 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Excellent "

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Informative "

Your Walking Routes

"Sandbanks ferry is now open"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

Accommodation

"All good, particular praise to 77 Fortuneswell, the people go the extra mile to make your stay enjoyable, if 6 stars were available, they would have received it from me."

Overall experience

"An excellent, well organised week."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? No

Route: Minehead to Westward Ho! Name: Annette and Adrian Walked on: 27th June 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Damon and the team have been really helpful, especially fitting us in at this busy time for B&Bs."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Found out loads of information before we started which helped us to understand what we were taking on. "

Your Walking Routes

"They are tough in places and sections , like walking into Combe Martin, are just a slog. However we really enjoyed it and are looking forward to the next trip in September. I would give a warning about Hog-weed!! I was scratched by the 'strimmed' stalks of this plant, the sap is very toxic. It set off a really unpleasant allergic reaction requiring high dose steroids to treat it. ( Brilliant 111 service and Devon Doctors out of hours service at Barnstaple Hospital)"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Looking well thumbed and well read. Useful when the usually great signage fails - usually due to diversions due to land slips and not always great on NT land."

Luggage transfers

"No problems - always there when we arrived"

Accommodation

"Great. Lovely welcoming hosts who were helpful with lots of variation in breakfasts etc. We slept well!"

Overall experience

"Tiring and a challenge in places but amazing views, wildflowers, wildlife. Friendly, helpful people along the way. Encounter made this as easy as they could for us."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Lyme Regis to Chickerell Name: David Walked on: 21st June 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"Consider walking along the beach in some cases if you want to avoid hills."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

Luggage transfers

"Luggage always present on arrival"

Accommodation

Overall experience

"Chickerell is not on the usual route, but breakfast is not readily available. The suggested cafe is too far from the lodgings, and doesn't open till 10 o'clock. It may be that in normal times lodgings in Chickerell would include breakfast. "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Coleridge Way Name: Sue Gearing Walked on: 21st June 2021

Overall experience

"It was a really enjoyable walk, and so well planned by Encounter. Their staff have been helpful whenever we connected them when planning. Arrangements worked perfectly and we were delighted with the accommodation chosen. The route was stunning, although maybe more hilly than we expected but we had great views. My friend and I would highly recommend Encounter. Thank you. It was such a wonderful way to emerge out of the dark days of Covid. Sue"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Wonwell Beach to Exmouth Name: Helen Singleton Walked on: 19th June 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Damon and team were excellent in putting together our itinerary to adapt to our ideal walking day and accommodation requirements. It made it easy for us to just turn up and walk"

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Informative with lots of relevant information including reviews from walkers"

Your Walking Routes

"We tailored our walking routes to try and do a maximum of 12 miles a day, which on strenuous sections was ideal. The number of ferries on this section added to the excitement and planning for each day. There is a reasonable amount of road walking in this section which can be dull and trainers rather than walking boots recommended for your feet. Watch the seagulls at Paignton. They like a sandwich! However the scenery on the tops of the coastal path at various points is stunning and well worth the effort of the hills. Good variety of walking with some longer and some shorter days."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"The notes and maps are extremely helpful and the daily sheets with cafe stops and route changes most useful. There were a couple of potential diversions which no longer exist. If they are not marked on the path they have been dealt with so the notes can be ignored. Note the ferry from Shaldon to Teignmouth may leave earlier then advertised if the tide is out. We arrived at 5.45 thinking we were in time and the last ferry left at 5.15pm. The Torquay to Teignmouth route is strenuous and longer than advised. "

Luggage transfers

"Worked with no hitches - seamless and easy"

Accommodation

"Our accommodation was generally very good though one twin room was definitely not big enough for two people and two bags. The hotel was most accommodating though and found us each a room. Sea Tang Guest House in Brixham was most welcoming and lovely. Teignmouth hotel a little jaded and in need of a little tlc. We booked all our meals ahead which was helpful in Covid times"

Overall experience

"Another great section and achievement made easier with the organisation by Damon and his team, particularly in these challenging times. Thank you"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Falmouth to Plymouth Name: Jim Walked on: 17th June 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Damon and the team were very helpful during the planning stage, providing alternative dates and routes that would work around difficulties in finding accommodation during and immediately after the G7 summit in St Ives. "

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

"Good information and the customer reviews were useful"

Your Walking Routes

"The route was challenging at times but longer routes interspersed with shorter ones made the walking manageable and the route provided stunning scenery, every day. The first day was the most challenging as 2 ferries were needed before the walk proper began and there were unexpected ferry delays/cancellations"

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"The notes, maps, guidebooks and itinary were all excellent"

Luggage transfers

"All excellent with no issues at all"

Accommodation

"Generally good and great choice to stay in Bistro Pierre for the last night. The dinner at our hotel in Looe was poor and overpriced we thought. We loved the accommodation in Portloe. "

Overall experience

"Massive thanks to Damon and the team for organising such a great week away, a much needed active holiday with good weather after months of lockdown!"

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Padstow to St Ives Name: Holly & Peter Walked on: 17th June 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Damon and his team always provide excellent service. They do a great job finding accommodation that suits our needs. This year it was particularly tough for them - pandemic restricted bookings, uncertainty if some accommodation would even be operating...but they managed brilliantly."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"A great route - this stretch of the SW coast path is much easier walking than the previous stretch. Lots of flat cliff-top walking. "

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Great walking tips from Damon! Especially the Padstow-Porthcothan-Newquay stretch. (Porthcothan by bus so you can stay in Padstow 2 nites). And we split up the Portreth to St Ives stretch by stopping at Hayle, taking the bus to St Ives (2 nights in St Ives). Then the next day we took the delightful train journey back to Hayle to finish up the last few miles. That way we got to spend more time in St Ives, which was really nice. This way you bookend the walk with 2 nights in Padstow and 2 nights in St Ives - which was really just about a perfect walking holiday. Also - don't forget to pre-book dinners in Padstow and St Ives. Also - you must pre-book tickets to Barbara Hepworth Museum and Tate St Ives if you want to go. You need a time slot and need to book well in advance. "

Luggage transfers

"Never had an issue - luggage was always waiting for us on arrival. "

Accommodation

"A diverse range of types of accommodation - all clean with hot showers (and baths in some). A special shout out to the lady who runs the Portreath Arms Pub Hotel. What a fantastic, professional operation she runs. And the food surpassed my expectations. This week in June 2021 was heaving with tourists...and every place was fully booked and super busy. Some places had staffing/service issues (fair enough, all things considered). "

Overall experience

"Excellent - this is the third leg of the SW Coast Path we have booked with Encounter and we will definitely keep using them to organise our SW Coast Path walks. "

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Pembrokeshire Coastal Path Name: Marion Chatfield Walked on: 16th June 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays

"Booked the holiday in 2020. Encounter walking holiday paid good attention to our requirements (we appreciated the input they allowed us where there were accommodation options) and also accommodated our request for a youth hostel in a fantastic coastal location one night - even though that would not be their typical accommodation. The booking took slightly longer than we'd have liked (from giving detailed list of night stops to confirming took around 3 weeks) but it was 18 nights to book and not all initial accommodation planned was available. They then had to cancel the arrangements due to Covid and rebook for 2021 - all via friendly emails. We had a hiccup with suspecting 2-3 weeks before we were due travel that the hostel would be unable to meet our booking due to Covid restrictions - but Encounter Walking holidays immediately followed this up, rebooked us into the B&B and ensured we had transport to the relevant point on the coastal path."

Encounter Walking Holidays Website

Your Walking Routes

"Fantastic scenery. 200 miles over 15 walking days, walking from Amroth to St Dogmaels. Lots of ups and downs - but no uphill went on for very long. Our days varied 9 miles to 18.8 miles - largely because of the availability of accommodation. We had a dry period - just a bit of drizzle on 2 days - being on the west coast this was very lucky."

Walking notes, maps, guidebooks and itinerary

"Book of strip maps and guidebook of walking instructions were fine - though not always perfect (we were walking in 2021 and the book was dated 2019). Suggest a walker looks in advance at the length of days and whether a slight adjustment of the route to or from from the day before or day after helps to reduce the longer day - especially as our experience was that we walked slightly longer distance than the guide stated (and we got lucky with the tidal days and did not need to take a diversion). At Amroth we did the start of the path along the beach the night before starting the walk proper. Also depends on whether you are stickler for keeping to the official route. e.g. the day from Bosherton to Angle via the firing range was stated as 15 miles. but we did 18.8 miles (which was the longest day) to include the Angle peninsula coast path (and we had walked the coastal path from Broad Haven beach (near Bosherton not the main Broad Haven further on) to St Govan's chapel the day before - else it would have been even longer). A rest day in St Davids made a nice break (though it is a small place despite being a city)."

Luggage transfers

"This was excellent. Our bags were always at our accommodation before we arrived and the company kindly carried a separate medical bag for free. We didn't even have to write on our luggage labels where our next overnight stop was."

Accommodation

"On the whole this was very good - but as you might expect did vary - with some accommodations excelling (either the accommodation itself or some very attractive breakfasts) and some slightly less so. Until life is back to normal, HIGHLY recommend booking and confirming time for ALL dinners in advance of embarking on the walk. We hadn't booked in St David's (where we took a rest day) and it did turn out OK with a nice pizza restaurant which didn't take bookings and we didn't have to wait too long, and eating main meal the second day at lunch time instead of evening (offered 5:30 or 9pm at one place and another was fully booked and others were shut on a Monday night ). However, with hindsight it would have been better to book in advance."

Overall experience

"Very enjoyable walk and thankful to Encounter Walking holidays for doing a good job of organising under such difficult circumstances. Would recommend this path to the keen walker. For the more casual walker, if planning to do the entire distance, take a good look at the length of the longer days and bear in mind that it may be wet."

Would you choose Encounter Walking Holidays for future holidays? Yes

Would you recommend Encounter Walking Holidays to others? Yes

Route: Torquay to Weymouth Name: Tricia & Allan Butcher Walked on: 15th June 2021

Planning and booking for your walk with Encounter Walking Holidays