Jove Trail Run Coaching Trip: Dartmoor & Devon Coast
5-7 September 2025 | Based at YHA Elmscott | Intermediate Level (must be comfortable running a half-marathon distance at a conversational pace).
Two landscapes. One team. Coastal cliffs, wild moorland, and fast legs. Trail running in its rawest, best form.
Growing up in Devon, I know only too well how beautiful the coastlines are! They offer a perfect level of challenge to trail runners looking to take things a step further without going too remote or extreme.
Being the main training ground of the Royal Marines, Dartmoor is a step up again; harsher terrain, more difficult conditions, it’s own microclimate… but a perfect place to learn key skills to go further afield.
The Plan
We’ll base ourselves on the remote North Devon coast, with runs along the rugged cliff line and a day trip into the ancient wilds of Dartmoor National Park.
It’s about movement, challenge, and escape.
Friday 5 Sept - Arrival + Shakeout
Arrive from 5pm at YHA Elmscott (near Hartland/Bideford)
Easy 6 - 8km coastal shakeout run
Get to experience the rugged beauty of the Devonshire coastline!
Saturday 6 Sept - Coastal Big Day - Develop Your Form
20 - 25km cliff and cove trail run (we will stop frequently to discuss coaching points)
Cold dip option, snacks + rest
Beach and recovery time
Evening meal (location TBC!)
Drinks and social at the YHA
Epic Dartmoor terrain makes for a next level running challenge.
Sunday 7 Sept - Dartmoor Day - Learn How to Navigate
Early start → ~50‑min drive to Dartmoor
12 - 15km high moorland run over tors and river crossings
Wild, open, mythic terrain
Finish by ~2-3pm for departures
Dartmoor trails feature river crossings, mountains and stunning moorland!
What’s Included
✅ 2 nights’ stay at YHA Elmscott
✅ 2 guided trail runs (coast + moorland) led by a qualified Run Coach and Mountain Leader
✅ Optional shakeout run Friday
✅ Trail run coaching
✅ Navigation training from a Mountain Leader - this is optional but recommended! Being able to navigate with a map and compass is an essential skill for the wilderness
✅ A mobility session after Saturday’s run
✅ Access to WhatsApp planning group
Price
Non-Members: £290
Members: £260
We also offer a ‘guide only’ version too at £240 for non-members and £215 for members. Message if you’re interested in this.
What You’ll Need
Trail running gear.
Basic food supplies (breakfasts, snacks, lunches) - there’s a self-service kitchen at the YHA.
Travel to/from Elmscott.
Money for pub meals or shared group dinners.
Car if possible as you’ll need to be able to get Dartmoor etc. - we’ll setup a group chat so we arrange car shares.
Who It’s For
Confident runners who can cover 12 - 20km/day - you don’t need to be fast but you do need to have the legs for it.
No racing. No pressure. But we move with purpose.
People who want to combine some beach with some challenge.
People who want to learn new skills.
Final Word
These are two stunning areas we’ll get to visit out of peak summer season. This will be a great antidote to the ‘back to work’ blues.
People talk a lot about trail running… it’s time to up your game and learn skills that will help you explore with confidence.
Kit List:
Trail running shoes (if you have a spare pair, bring them in case one gets wet, but not essential!)
Vest or small pack to carry supplies
Waterproof jacket
Warm layer
Shorts/t-shirts/socks
Cap
Sunglasses
Suncream
Personal first aid items (any medication you need, blister kit, painkillers etc.)
Insect repellant
Normal clothes for evenings
Towel for YHA and beach
Snacks / gels - whatever you normally run with but note, we’ll be out between 3 - 5 hours each session so you should also take proper food
Capacity to carry 1 - 2 L of water
Optional - Swimming kit
Optional - Dartmoor map 1:25,000 scale, OL 28 (see here for more info) - if you get s ‘standard’ version, you’ll also need a map case
Optional - Compass (I’d recommend the Silva Expedition 4)
Questions?
Drop us a line or message once you’re booked. Or email hello@thejoveclub.com.