Atlantic Highway
The Atlantic Highway – a poetic name for a road that is among the most beautiful coastal routes in Europe. Located in southwest England, this convertible route takes you through the heart of Devon and Cornwall, past rugged cliffs, secluded coves, and picturesque villages. With the convertible, the tour becomes a sensory experience: the driving wind mingles with the salty sea air while the road gently hugs the wild Atlantic coast.
The stages of the convertible tour on the Atlantic Highway
Barnstaple and Exmoor – Kickoff in northern Devon
The convertible journey begins in Barnstaple, a charming market town on the edge of Exmoor National Park. From here, the convertible road trip initially heads inland, passing wide moorlands, grazing ponies, and narrow hedge-lined roads. A detour into the national park itself is particularly rewarding, where small waterfalls, quiet valleys, and winding roads alternate. The view often extends to the coast – and the first curves already make you crave more.
Clovelly and Bude – Fishing village meets surfer vibe
Clovelly is a real highlight: the car-free village drops steeply down to the sea, with cobblestone streets and white cottages that look like they are from another time. Here, you leave the car behind and stroll down on foot to the small harbor. After that, the convertible rolls on to Bude – a relaxed seaside town with broad sandy beaches and a lively surfing scene. The contrast between the historic village and the young surf spot is typical of the versatility of this convertible route.
Tintagel Castle and Boscastle – In the footsteps of King Arthur
Along steep cliffs and narrow country roads, you reach Tintagel Castle, spectacularly located on a peninsula. The legendary birthplace of King Arthur not only offers a mystical atmosphere but also magnificent views of the roaring sea. In Boscastle, just a few kilometers further, the path runs through a deeply cut valley directly to the sea. The small natural harbor and historical buildings invite a brief stop.
Bedruthan Steps and Watergate Bay – Pure postcard motifs
The drive through North Cornwall becomes a visual delight. At the Bedruthan Steps, one rock formation follows another, while you look out over the Atlantic from above – best enjoyed in the evening sun. Further south, Watergate Bay tempts you with an endless beach and perfect convertible weather. If you wish, you can spend the night in one of the boutique hotels right by the cliff and enjoy dinner with a sea view.
Newquay – Destination with surfer soul and zest for life
The convertible tour ends in Newquay, the surf mecca of Cornwall. The town offers endless beaches and surf schools as well as relaxed cafes, small shops, and lively nightlife. Cruising through the town in a convertible and ending the day with an ice cream or cider on a cliff – it’s hard to imagine a better conclusion to a coastal tour. If you want, you can extend your stay for a few more days and explore south Cornwall.
Tips for your convertible tour on the Atlantic Highway
The convertible route reveals its charm especially in spring and autumn when the roads are clear, the weather is mild, and the colors are vibrant. Many of the small villages along the convertible route are ideal for stops – whether for fish & chips, a coastal walk, or a dip in the cool Atlantic water. Important: The roads are often narrow and winding, but that’s exactly what makes the driving fun.
Take your time to make small detours – perhaps to secluded coves or high vantage points. Spontaneous encounters with sheep on the road or the coastal wind on an open stretch are also part of the magic of this convertible tour. With the right music, open windows, and a view of the ocean, the Atlantic Highway becomes a route you will never forget.
With the convertible on the Atlantic Highway
For those longing for wide open spaces, wind, and wild coastlines, the Atlantic Highway offers a perfect mix of driving pleasure, nature, and deceleration. Here, the journey is the destination – and the destination is often even more beautiful than expected. The convertible tour not only leads you through impressive landscapes but also through a piece of British lifestyle among cottages, clotted cream, and coastal paths.
Being on the road in a convertible means pure freedom on this route. Every stop turns into a postcard motif, and every curve invites you to savor the moment. The Atlantic Highway is more than just a road – it is an experience for all the senses and a perfect convertible road trip for lovers of wild coastal landscapes.
