We use cookies to make your experience better. To comply with the new e-Privacy directive, we need to ask for your consent to set the cookies. Learn more.
The best road trips in the South West
We’ve rounded up the best road trips in the South West to make the most of your Mercedes-Benz this summer. With stunning coastlines and sweeping landscapes, there is so much to discover in our corner of the country.
Our favourite road trips in the South West:
St Michael’s Mount to Land’s End
This drive is ideal if you want to discover some of Cornwall’s most iconic landmarks. St Michael’s Mount can be accessed on foot by a path that appears at low tide or by boat when the sea comes in. The castle and gardens make for a fantastic family day out. From there visit the extraordinary Minack theatre, built into the cliffside you can take in an open-air show, with the ocean as a back drop during their programme of summer productions. Then, drive through the Cornish countryside to Land’s End on the Penwith Heritage Cost. There are plenty of campsites, Air BnBs and holiday homes along the way, making this three stop trip a perfect summer mini break.
Moretonhampstead to Tavistock
The panoramic views across Dartmoor, from one market town to another, are truly breathtaking. Starting off in the bustling town of Moretonhampstead, this drive takes you on the B3212 across the moor. Watch out for ponies along the route, but enjoy the long stretches of country roads. It’s worth stopping off at the parking areas along the route to take in the view, or for a Devon cream tea (cream then jam) at the quaint Two Bridges Hotel. From the Two Bridges junction follow the B3357 past the Pre-Historic Settlement site and Cox Tor (well worth a climb for the views), and into the valley of Tavistock. Explore the famous Pannier Market for some fantastic local goods and finish with dinner at the award winning Cornish Arms.
Bridgwater to Cheddar Gorge
The dramatic cliffs of Cheddar Gorge are one of the UKs greatest natural wonders. Take in the landscape and enjoy the handling of your Mercedes-Benz as it navigates the meandering bends of the Gorge. There are plenty of stops along the way for cave exploring, or climbing if you’ve packed your gear!
Valley of the Rocks
This stunning drive through the valley of rocks takes in spectacular views of the North Devon coast. It includes some fantastic driving challenges encompassing tight bends and steep gradients. One Magazine editor, Jake Tucker, took the new GLE for a spin across this route. Read his review.
Atlantic Highway
The Atlantic Highway is the romantic name for the stretch of A39 from the North Devon link road at Barnstaple down to Fraddon in Cornwall where it meets the A30. There are a number of interesting landmarks and attractions along the way, but really the best thing about this drive is the view of the Atlantic Ocean. The stretch between Barnstaple and Bostcastle offers stunning views of the North Devon and Cornwall coasts. Widemouth Bay is a great beach stop, with excellent surf conditions, along with specified areas for swimming and body boarding. The stunning Tintagel castle sits on the clifftop and has a rich history dating back to the 5th Century AD.