Grunta Beach

Grunta Beach is something of a local secret, and those who know it tend to keep it that way. Sitting at the foot of the cliffs below Mortehoe, accessible via a steep path from the northern end of Woolacombe, this rocky cove has an entirely different character to the main beach just a short distance away.

Do not come to Grunta expecting long golden sands. This beach is defined by rock pools, gullies and the kind of wild, untamed coastline that reminds you the sea is very much in charge here. On larger tides the beach largely disappears beneath the waves, so your visit is very much governed by the state of the tide. This is something to check carefully before you head down, as the path can be cut off on the return if the tide has come in while you were exploring.

That tidal quality is, of course, precisely what makes Grunta so special. The rock pools here are exceptional, full of life and endlessly fascinating for anyone who takes time to look closely. Wild swimmers appreciate the raw, ungroomed nature of the spot, with the current and the character of the water feeling genuinely oceanic rather than beach-side.

The view from the clifftop above, with the full sweep of the North Devon coast stretching away on either side, is breathtaking. The walk down from Mortehoe is part of the experience, taking you through dramatic headland scenery that puts you firmly on the wilder edge of this remarkable coastline.

Grunta is not a beach for everyone, and that is entirely fine. For those who like their beaches a little raw, a little unpredictable and entirely free from crowds, it is an absolute gem. Check the tides, wear sensible footwear and enjoy the feeling of having the whole Atlantic horizon entirely to yourself.