Devon Air Ambulance’s Heli Hike returns for a second year, this time with three brand-new routes across some of Devon’s most beautiful landscapes, both coastal and rural inland.
Devon Air Ambulance’s Heli Hike returns for a second year, this time with three brand-new routes across some of Devon’s most beautiful landscapes, both coastal and rural inland.
The 6‑mile Route: Bigbury‑on‑Sea to Ringmore and back
The shortest Heli Hike route may be gentler on the legs, but it’s rich in character from the very first step. Setting off from Bigbury‑on‑Sea, walkers are treated to immediate coastal drama, with sweeping views across Bigbury Bay and towards Burgh Island, one of South Devon’s most recognisable landmarks.
As the route follows the same stretch as the longer distances towards Ringmore, the path runs along open clifftops and rolling fields, part of the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where views open out to secluded coves and wide skies. Ringmore itself is a highlight: a village recorded in the Domesday Book, known for its thatched cottages and 13th‑century All Hallows’ Church.
Before looping back, walkers can pause at the historic Journey’s End Inn, a former smugglers’ haunt dating back to the 13th Century and a popular stop for food and refreshment. The return leg loops through Bigbury village and around Bigbury Golf Course, offering more manicured scenery and elevated views back towards the coast before finishing where the journey began.
The 14‑mile Route: Coastal drama and estuary calm
The 14‑mile route covers some of the most stunning parts of the South Hams. Leaving Bigbury‑on‑Sea, walkers follow the coast path alongside the 26‑mile route before branching off at Ayrmer Cove. This secluded beach, only accessible on foot, is known for its unspoilt sands and expansive sea views, making it one of the quiet gems of this stretch of coastline.
Continuing west along the South West Coast Path, the route passes above dramatic cliffs and down towards Wonwell Beach, a sheltered sandy inlet on the eastern bank of the River Erme. At low tide, the estuary opens out into wide sands, with peaceful views upstream and across to Mothecombe.
From here, the route turns inland, following paths parallel to the River Erme. Woodland sections are particularly atmospheric, with wildflowers and birdsong adding to the calm. The village of Kingston marks a welcome midpoint. Home to St James the Less, a 14th‑century church, Kingston also offers the traditional Dolphin Inn, a well‑known stop for walkers.
The final miles pass through Houghton and back towards Bigbury, gradually opening up familiar coastal views before returning to Bigbury‑on‑Sea for the finish.
The 26‑mile Route: An epic South Hams voyage of discovery
The longest route is a true journey through coast, countryside and community. After sharing the opening coastal stretch and turning inland beyond Ayrmer Cove, the marathon-distance walkers head through rolling farmland towards Loddiswell, a village perched above the Avon Valley. Loddiswell’s history stretches back to the Domesday Book, and its 14th‑century Church of St Michael and All Angels provides a quiet but notable landmark along the route.
This inland section offers a different rhythm, with wooded valleys, riverside paths and wide pastoral views replacing the exposed cliffs of the coast. As the route swings back towards the sea via Bantham, walkers are rewarded with expansive estuary views and glimpses back towards Bigbury Bay – a reminder of how far they’ve travelled!
The final approach to Bigbury‑on‑Sea brings the route full circle, with Burgh Island once again visible on the horizon. After miles of varied terrain, the familiar shoreline and finishing line will feel especially well earned.
Inspired? If you’ve yet to bag your spot on one of these three fantastic walks then we’d love to hear from you! Visit our event page for detailed information about the routes and how to raise funds with every step you take.
