With its warm climate, South Devon enjoys an early spring. Comprising an abundance of different habitats – from coastline to woodland, estuary to moorland – there’s plenty here to keep nature lovers entertained on a Dawlish Warren Spring Break.
Spring is a time of beginnings for the natural world. Leaves unfurl turning the landscape a verdant green, while flowers raise their heads above the earth carpeting woodlands with floral displays. The dawn chorus is at its most deafening as birds gear up for mating season, while mammals wake from their winter naps and the first butterflies can be seen flitting amongst the hedgerows.
Here’s our selection of South Devon picks for nature lovers this springtime.
Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve
Right on our doorstep is the Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve, situated at the mouth of the Exe Estuary. If you visit early in the season, you can witness the wintering birds this reserve is famous for and the arrival of our spring migrants. Also, keep your eyes peeled for rare Warren or Sand Crocuses that flower in the spring.
Haldon Forest Park
With some 3,500 acres of woodland to explore, Haldon Forest has something for everyone. Wander the numerous walking trails with your binoculars – this is a particularly good spot for birds of prey – or hire a bike and take a leisurely cycle through the woodland. To keep the young ones amused, hire a Segway or take them swinging through the trees at Go Ape!
Walks in Dawlish
Whether you’re looking for an afternoon stroll to take you to a beauty spot, or to embark on the challenge of a life time by completing the South West Coastal Path, Dawlish is a great place to walk. You will never be short of spectacular views. Dawlish community and Sustrans have put together this Walking Exploration booklet which includes 8 walks ranging from short ambles to long rambles. You can also sign up for walks exploring local heritage, art, poetry and meditation.
Berry Head
Located at Brixham on the English Riviera, Berry Head is home to a rare species of horseshoe bat and, in the spring, hosts a noisy colony of nesting guillemots, known affectionately as the ‘Brixham penguin’. You can also find beautiful bee orchids from mid-May, and witness the beautiful song of the endangered cirl bunting.
Occombe Farm
A few miles inland from Berry Head is Occombe Farm, a working farm that’s open to the public. Adults and kids alike will enjoy exploring the farmyard and following the nature trail through the surrounding countryside. The farm runs special ‘Meet the Animals’ sessions in springtime so kids can say hello to their favourite farm animals and experience caring for them.
Dawlish Warren Spring Break
To book your trip to enjoy South Devon’s nature this springtime, contact Welcome Family and book a Dawlish Warren holiday. You can be sure of a warm Devon welcome while enjoying some of spring’s finest displays.
Updated 5/12/18
