This
course is based on the very beautiful River Dart
which finds its source at Dartmoor and ends in
the sea at Dartmouth. The course is centred around
the section from Totnes to Dartmouth which does
have a large array of wildlife and because it
is a tidal river, the scenery is fantastic. In
some places it feels like you are travelling down
the Amazon, where colonies of Herons are nesting
in great numbers and the trees grow right down
to the waters edge. Some of the animals you may
see range from seals, bats, salmon & trout,
birds of prey, waders and kingfishers. There have
been recent sightings on the Dart by the elusive
otter but we are not promising anything!
We
will have the opportunity for wild camping with
open fires and will stay in two river beach locations.
Because this is a tidal river freshwater rod licences
do not apply. There will be an oportunity for
fishing should you wish to bring a small travel
rod.
Friday
at noon, depart Sharpham Estate and
enjoy a gentle familiarization paddle and brief
exploration up the river Hems (which is a bit
like a short jungle adventure!) and a really good
wildlife haven. We will arrive at Ham point about
5 pm and set up camp in the woods.
Saturday
depart Ham point and head towards Dartmouth. We
will pass oyster beds, hopefully collect some
samphire, explore reed marshes and a variety of
habitats on route. We will pass by Stoke Gabriel
and Dittisham on our way into Dartmouth and come
back on right bank and stop at our next private
location for the night.
Sunday
depart
from near White Rock and a slow paddle around
the area, looking at the various creeks and tributaries
plus getting out for wildlife exploration. Finally,
we will travel up river and end at the wonderful Sharpham Vineyard Cafe for some delicious final fare before departure when
you will be returned to your cars back at the estate.
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