The Salt Path by Raynor Winn is a memoir about a couple, Raynor and Moth, who lose their home and livelihood after Moth receives a terminal diagnosis of Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD). In response to this, they embark on a 630-mile journey walking the South West Coast Path from Somerset to Dorset. The book explores themes of grief, resilience, and the healing power of nature as they navigate the challenges of their walk and redefine their sense of home. If The Salt Path has inspired you to explore the South West Coast Path (SWCP), there are numerous coastal walking routes from 5 to 20 kilometres and beyond that capture the essence of Raynor and Moth’s journey. Here are some of our favourite walks, each offering a unique experience of the UK’s longest National Trail:

Minehead to Porlock Weir (8.9 miles / 14.3 km)

This scenic and challenging section marks the start of the South West Coast Path, winding through Exmoor’s dramatic landscape. Walkers will encounter steep cliffs, wooded valleys, and moorland with sweeping views from Selworthy Beacon. Two route options are available: the coastal ‘rugged’ path or a slightly less strenuous inland trail. Rich in wildlife, the area is home to rare species such as red deer and blackneck moths. The route ends at Porlock Weir, where the coastline tells a powerful story of natural change after a 1996 storm breached a 6,000-year-old shingle ridge, farmland transformed into a thriving saltmarsh habitat.

Hartland Quay to Bude (15.2 miles / 24.5 km)
Considered the toughest stretch of the South West Coast Path, this challenging route features steep, repeated climbs and descents across dramatic coastal terrain. The path traces high above a rocky shoreline known for historic shipwrecks, passes waterfalls, and crosses ten river valleys. Walkers are rewarded with breathtaking, remote views from points like Higher Sharpnose and Steeple Point. The final approach into Bude offers a welcome relief, with gentler walking along sandy beaches marking the end of this demanding yet spectacular journey.

Padstow to Porthcothan (13.2 miles / 21.3 km)
This gentle and scenic stretch of the Coast Path offers easy walking along low cliffs, with stunning views of Cornwall’s golden beaches. Starting from the charming town of Padstow, the route passes Hawker’s Cove and skirts the dramatic Atlantic coastline. Highlights include panoramic views from Trevose Head and the picturesque bays along the way. While some rocky and narrow sections appear near Constantine Bay, the overall walk is relaxed and ends at the peaceful, dune-backed beach of Porthcothan.

Land’s End Hostel to Porthcurno (5.8 miles / 9.3 km)

This moderate walk packs a lot into a short distance, tracing dramatic granite cliffs from Land’s End to Porthcurno. Along the way, walkers can enjoy striking coastal views, historic lighthouses, shipwreck sites, and ancient landmarks. Wildlife is plentiful, and cultural highlights include the famous Minack Theatre, making this a richly rewarding stretch of the path despite its shorter length.

These walks offer a taste of the diverse landscapes and experiences along the South West Coast Path. Whether you’re seeking solitude, dramatic scenery, or cultural landmarks, each route provides an opportunity to connect with the spirit of The Salt Path. For detailed maps and additional information, the South West Coast Path Association website is excellent.

Salt Path Inspired Break:

Why not book the Read, Ramble and Recharge break at Fistral Beach Hotel in Newquay, Cornwall. Located on “The Salt Path” the 2-night getaway aims to encourage guests to reconnect with nature and includes a South West Coastal Path walking map, dinner one evening, breakfast each morning and 20% discount of GAIA spa treatments at the hotel’s Fistral Beach Spa. Author of The Salt Path, Raynor said; “The Salt Path was written for Moth, with no intention for it to be read by anyone else. To watch the story of our journey spread so widely and now transform into a film has been unexpected as if the story has taken on a life of its own. “What we really hope is that many people will leave screenings of the film having heard of CBD for the first time. It’s our hope their newfound knowledge carries beyond the cinema”.

DONATE: PSPA provides support and information to people living with PSP and CBD, while funding research into treatments and ultimately a cure for these conditions. If you would like to donate please visit PSPA.

words by Sadie Reid