The couples’ guide to romantic walks on Dartmoor

You could say all you need for a romantic walk is the company of the person you love. And while this is true, exploring a stunning location at the same time certainly doesn’t hurt.

Between the sweeping river valleys, ancient woodland and iconic stone tors, you won’t find a setting like Dartmoor National Park anywhere else in the world. There’s a reason it’s an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Walks on Dartmoor are perfect place for you and your partner to share some special moments in the great outdoors. Whether you’re into day-long hikes, tor hunting or afternoon ambles accompanied by a picnic, there’s a walk on Dartmoor suited to everyone.

If you need a little inspiration, here are our picks for the best romantic walks on Dartmoor.

Hound Tor

As well as its rugged beauty, Dartmoor National Park is known for its myths and legends. Hound Tor may be one of the most iconic tors on Dartmoor, with it having supposedly inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic novel, The Hound of the Baskervilles.

As well as Sherlock Holmes mysteries, you’ll also see Bowerman’s Nose. Folklore says this granite tor was once a man who was turned to stone by local witches. Then there’s Saddle Tor and Jay’s Grave, both of which are rife with history, myth and the occasional ghost sighting.

Ghosts, witches and hounds might not sound like the most romantic walk on Dartmoor, but the beauty and vastness of Hound Tor truly overpowers any spooky vibes.

Climb to the top of the tor and marvel at the view that spans across the moors. Cuddle up close with a flask of tea and cheers to your successful hike or carry on down the tor where you can walk around the remains of a medieval village. For any history-loving couple, or those who chase stunning views, Hound Tor is definitely a romantic walk on Dartmoor.

Becky Falls

Romance effortlessly blossoms when surrounded by nature. And if beauty is what you’re looking for, Becky Falls is one of the best walks on Dartmoor for it.

Dappled ancient woodland? Check. A tranquil brook and wildlife spotting? Check. A 70 foot waterfall for a breathtaking couple’s photo backdrop? Check and check.

There are three colour-coded paths for exploring Becky Falls. The 40-minute blue route gives you a leisurely and relatively flat way to take in the surroundings. The red route is a little longer with some steep clambering over rocky boulders.

If you and your partner are experienced hikers looking for a real challenge, there’s the purple route. This trail has plenty of obstacles to navigate, including a 200-foot climb. This romantic walk on Dartmoor can take up to 90 minutes and definitely calls for an indulgent dinner afterwards.

Wistman’s Wood

Sometimes what makes a walk truly romantic is a touch of magic. And when it comes to magic, no walk sparks as much wonder than Wistman’s Wood.

What makes this such a perfect couples’ walk on Dartmoor is how unusual Wistman’s Wood appears. With its twisting, twining branches, it feels like you and your partner are escaping together into a timeless fantasy realm.

Even better, reaching the wood is far from strenuous, making it a perfect romantic walk for couples not looking to build up too much of a sweat. The 2.8 mile route follows a gentle and clearly signposted path up to the wood, leaving more time to enjoy romantic moments rather than catching your breath.

On the way up you’ll find great views of the West Dart River, as well as Crockern Tor and its prehistoric settlement remains. For an even better view, carry on up the valley to Longaford Tor.

As enticing as the woods might be, walkers are advised not to venture in between the trees themselves Wistman’s Wood is a delicate ecosystem and it’s easily disrupted.

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Lydford Gorge

A romantic walk on Dartmoor is all about sharing an experience. Sometimes that means tranquility and sunsets. It can also mean adventure and discovery.

Adventure is exactly what makes Lydford Gorge one of the best walks on Dartmoor, hands down. At one end of the circular route is the 100-foot White Lady Waterfall. At the other end is Devil’s Cauldron, where the course of the River Lyd turns from a babbling brook to a raging whirlpool.

The Lydford Gorge Trail starts from the nearby Lydford car park. Following the trail takes you from the stunning White Lady Waterfall, up to Devil’s Cauldron, and back again.

Let the romance continue

Whether you're seeking spooky sightings at Hound Tor, taking in the beauty of Becky Falls or rekindling a love for the great outdoors at Lydford Gorge, one thing’s for sure – there are far too many walks on Dartmoor to explore in just one day.

At the Horn of Plenty, you’ll find cosy, luxury accommodation situated on the edge of Dartmoor. Not only that, but the Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is right on our doorstep too.

Our restaurant is one of the finest in Devon, with 3 AA Rosettes for culinary excellence to show for it. We’ve also won the AA Gold Award for Breakfast in 2022, so you can start your walk on Dartmoor fully fueled.

It’s the perfect base to rest and refresh between your Dartmoor excursions, and we can’t wait to welcome you.

Published on Friday 28th October 2022 / By James Matthews