Rosy red cheeks, well-worn boots and fresh sea air. We happen to think winter is one of the best times to explore the countryside and coastline around Bude.
The beaches are quieter, the coastline wilder. And on those crisp, clear days, you can walk beneath enormous skies along frost-kissed beaches with the vast Atlantic stretching away beside you.
Willow Bay makes a wonderfully peaceful base for a winter walking break near Bude, with coast, countryside and the South West Coast Path all waiting within easy reach.
Here's our pick of the best.
Bude Coast and Canal Walk
For a little bit of everything
If you decide between coast and countryside then don't. Combine both with a stroll along the pretty Bude Coast and Canal route.
This 5.7-mile circular walk begins in Bude and follows part of the South West Coast Path, with sea views along the way, before heading inland through farmland and joining the historic Bude Canal for the return journey.
The canal itself dates from the early 1820s, when it was used to transport calcium-rich sea sand inland for farmers to use as fertiliser. Today it's altogether more peaceful offering beautiful views, surrounded by fields, farmland, water and wildlife.
And finishing in Bude means you'll easily find somewhere to refuel afterwards.
Distance: 5.7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Best for: Variety, families, dogs and seeing different sides of Bude.
Bude Three Beaches Walk
For sand, sea and clifftop views
This walk does exactly what it says on the tin - taking in Summerleaze, Crooklets and Northcott Mouth, combining stretches of beach with the South West Coast Path.
This circular route is around 3.5 miles and takes roughly three hours, starting near the canal before crossing Summerleaze and continuing past Crooklets to Northcott Mouth, returning along the coast path.
It's a wonderful winter route because you experience the coastline from two perspectives – down beside the water and high above it on the cliffs.
Timing matters, though. Parts of the route rely on safe beach access, so please check the tides before setting out.
Distance: 3.5 miles
Best for: Beaches, sea views and a half-day winter walk.
Sandymouth to Duckpool
For true wild-coast atmosphere
If you're keen to feel like you've escaped to somewhere like nowhere else then head for Sandymouth.
Here you can enjoy the National Trust's coastal route from Sandymouth to Duckpool which follows the South West Coast Path for around 2.5 miles, taking in sweeping views from the clifftops.
The winter months are a great time to walk here as the steep cliff tops provide the perfect vantage pooint for the huge Atlantic waves as they crash against the shoreline. The surrounding landscape is sparse, stripped back and laid bare, which gives this walk a wonderfully atmospheric feel.
If you fancy something longer, the National Trust also has a 4.5-mile circular route combining Sandymouth, Duckpool and historic Stowe Wood.
Distance: 2.5 miles for the coastal route / 4.5 miles for the circular
Best for: Coastal views, dogs and wild winter scenery.
Sandymouth and Coombe Valley
Cascading waterfalls, woodland and drama
For a big winter adventure, this walk is hard to beat.
The 6.8-mile Sandymouth and Coombe Valley route begins at Northcott Mouth and follows a dramatic rocky shoreline before returning inland through woodland and the stunning Coombe Valley, with winter bringing something special to the route.
Thanks to the seasonal rainfall, huge waterfalls tumble over the cliff faces, while moss, algae and rock pools add a vibrance to an otherwise beautifully muted winter landscape.
It's a challenging route, with steep gradients and sections that can become muddy, so good walking boots are essential. However, it's well worth the effort.
Distance: 6.8 miles
Difficulty: Challenging
Best for: Experienced walkers, waterfalls, woodland and dramatic scenery.
The Crackington Haven Circular
For walkers who like a challenge
If your walking boots are happiest when things get a little muddy, try the Crackington Haven Circular.
At 3.5 miles it isn't particularly long, but don't let the distance fool you.
This impressive route includes steep hills, steps, stiles along terrain that can become incredibly muddy, depending on recent rains. Walkers are led out along the clifftops before returning inland through dense woodland.
The reward is a wonderful mixture of dramatic coast, wildlife and countryside. But, when walking the coastal stretch, do keep an eye on the rocks below too as seals are sometimes spotted along this stretch.
Distance: 3.5 miles
Difficulty: Challenging
Best for: Experienced walkers, cliffs, woodland and wildlife.
