The Dartmoor enthusiasts in our club completed another 2 days of the wonderful Dartmoor Way. Both were long, at just under 12 miles, but so varied the time just flew and we forgot our sore feet! Tavistock to Shaugh Bridge was a very hot day, but a real pleasure as so much of the route was in beautiful woodland and beside rivers. Tall trees, dappled sunlight, clear water tumbling over huge granite rocks. In the open areas the summer flowers and grasses along the banks and grazing area were at their best, including some orchids. It was also “foal season”, with dozens of delightful little fluffy newbies.
The Shaugh Bridge to Ivybridge day was different again, with a lot more open moorland and spectacular views of the surrounding high tors, which must be really bleak in winter. The route took us through and around the extensive china clay mining area – in part depressing because of the environmental destruction, but also dramatic in the white sweeping layers carved out. The day ended with a lovely woodland section along the river, taking us under our second huge aqueduct of the weekend.
Somerset Walking Club 