Hi Beth,
On walking the South West Coast Path, if I couldn't smell, see or hear the sea I knew I had gone wrong.
It's an easy one.
Another planet is the Western Highlands, North of Fort William, which I'm planning to walk with my dog next May
There's no signed trail, but it is a recognise walk, not hugging the coast - Cape Wrath Trail - there's a guide book and two dedicated maps.
A map and compass are definitely required.
Even though there are bothies and a smittering of towns, a tent is recommended, some would say essential.
I met a couple walking round the whole coast for the second time and they never took any ferries, always walking up the inlets until they came to a bridge - dedication or what.
Good luck Beth,
Ian & Zen