Mountain climbing in Cornwall is an absolute pleasure and might be loved at any time of the 12 months. From gorgeous clifftop vistas to hidden coves, deserted villages and rural heathland, the coastal walks in Cornwall are as various as they’re lovely.
Cornwall is one in all my favourite locations in the world because of its gorgeous beaches, nice browsing alternatives, picturesque fishing villages, and miles upon miles of unspoiled coastal paths.
I’ve been mountaineering in Cornwall since I used to be sufficiently old to stroll and it’s a pleasure I return to time and once more. There are various mountaineering trails in Cornwall from simple day hikes to multi-day long-distance treks.
You possibly can select coastal footpaths, inland routes, or mix each. Cornwall is admittedly geared in direction of being outdoor and it’s simple to seek out refreshments and lodging alongside the numerous mountaineering routes.
10 Best Hikes in Cornwall
Having spent a few years touring round Cornwall, I’ve accomplished numerous hikes. I’ve executed many extra hikes than this in Cornwall, however I’ve narrowed down my favorites to this record of 10 primarily based on accessibility, ease, crowds, views alongside the best way, wildlife, and general enjoyment on the path.
Cornwall’s mountaineering trails supply some distinctive alternatives for recognizing wildlife. I’ve seen basking sharks, seals, kingfishers, and all method of marine life on my many hikes throughout the county.
Hikers can typically even spot whales and dolphins from the clifftop making a Cornish hike much more memorable.
1. Polzeath to Port Isaac (One of many Best Coastal Walks in Cornwall)
The hike from Polzeath to the fishing village of Port Isaac is one in all my favourite hikes and is the very best coastal stroll in Cornwall. This hike has all of it; rugged cliffs, abandoned seashores, panoramic views, and finally ends up in Cornwall’s most picturesque village.
This 10-mile Cornwall mountaineering path is reasonably strenuous however I’ve been doing it since I used to be a baby, so so long as you’re comparatively match, you’re unlikely to seek out it too taxing.
You’ll take in some well-known landmarks resembling Pentire Level, the Rumps, the deserted village of Port Quinn, and much more moreover.
The hike takes round 4-5 hours and in summer time the route is kind of uncovered so remember to cowl up and put on sunscreen. Good mountaineering boots or footwear are wanted for some rocky elements down by the seashores.
The route might be hiked in both course and you’ll be able to take the No 96 bus again.
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: South West Coast Path, Polzeath, South West Coast Path, Port Isaac. View on Alltrails
- Size: 10 miles / 15.9 km
- Period: 4h30m
- Sort of Path: Out and again
- Elevation Achieve: 1,496 ft / 456 meters
2. The Camel Path
The Camel Path is an 18-mile monitor following an deserted railway line and the River Camel between Bodmin and Padstow. Because of the flat terrain, the route is standard with cyclists, but it surely’s additionally nice for strolling too and is without doubt one of the greatest simple hikes in Cornwall.
Mountain climbing the 6-mile part between Padstow and Wadebridge is without doubt one of the nice Cornwall day hikes as you comply with the Camel Estuary inland. There are many nice locations to cease and have a picnic alongside the best way and I’ve many pleased reminiscences of snacking on the river banks.
This is without doubt one of the simple hikes round Cornwall and is appropriate for all health ranges. The flat path alongside the Camel Estuary is one in all my favourite Cornwall trails and is one I’ve loved numerous instances since childhood to newer instances.
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: Padstow, Wadebridge, Bodmin
- Size: 6 miles / 9.8 km
- Period: 2h10m
- Sort of Path: Out and again
- Elevation Achieve: 380 ft / 116 meters
3. Padstow and Trevone Round Stroll
This reasonably strenuous round stroll beginning and ending in Padstow gives a few of the greatest mountaineering in Cornwall. The route has some improbable views, numerous alternatives for recognizing wildlife, and the added bonus of numerous glorious pubs and eating places to loosen up in after your stroll.
The surroundings on this coastal path in Cornwall is unbelievable and it’s a hike I’ve taken many instances for the views alone. The path contains coastal and inland sections with towering cliffs, secluded bays, rolling farmland, and in fact the attractive fishing city of Padstow.
You’ll should be comparatively match because the path covers rocky coastal paths and cliffs. It’s a terrific stroll to do with canine and youngsters who’re used to mountaineering. This Cornwall mountaineering path is greatest undertaken from spring to fall to get probably the most out of the expertise.
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: Padstow Harbor, see the route on AllTrails
- Size: 7.6 miles / 12.2 km
- Period: 3h
- Sort of Path: Circle
- Elevation Achieve: 702 ft / 214 meters
4. Penzance to Newlyn
The round stroll from Penzance to the small village of Newlyn is without doubt one of the greatest winter hikes in Cornwall because it’s a brief route and isn’t as uncovered because the paths on the northern coast. It takes in the beautiful fishing port of Newlyn – probably the most picturesque locations on the south coast.
The route takes in some fascinating native points of interest such because the Celtic chapel and the previous fishing port in addition to the Victorian tropical gardens and Penzance seafront. This stroll is appropriate for all ranges of health and makes for an ideal stroll regardless of the climate.
For these seeking to discover extra of the southern shoreline, you’ll be able to comply with the coast path east to Marazion and St Michael’s Mount. One factor’s for positive, Penzance is the right base for coastal walks in Cornwall.
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: Jubilee Pool, Penzance, see the route on IWalkCornwall
- Size: 3.9 miles / 6.3 km
- Period: half-hour
- Sort of Path: Circle
- Elevation Achieve: 377 ft / 115 meters
5. The Lizard Peninsula
Cornwall’s Lizard peninsula is without doubt one of the most scenic elements of the county with rugged cliffs towering above the blue waters of the North Atlantic. This is without doubt one of the greatest hikes in Cornwall for spectacular views and uncommon wildflower and wildlife recognizing alongside the best way.
The route begins and finishes at Kynance Cove, famous as probably the most stunning beaches in Cornwall. This 7-mile hike isn’t too difficult and contains strolling alongside seashores in addition to some stony, clifftop paths.
Pack your swimming wear if making this trek in summer time as there are some improbable seashores alongside the best way, and as you’ll move by means of the city of Lizard, there are many nice choices for lunch (the Top House Inn is an ideal conventional pub that serves Cornish ales and hearty meals).
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: Kynance Cove, Lizard, National Trust Route
- Size: 7 miles / 11 km
- Period: 3h
- Sort of Path: Circle
- Elevation Achieve: 700 ft / 220 meters
6. Porthcurno to Land’s Finish
This simple route is without doubt one of the greatest hikes round Cornwall and takes in the westernmost level of mainland Britain at Land’s Finish. The surroundings alongside this stretch of shoreline is phenomenal with breathtaking views out to sea and alongside the cliffs.
The route is out and again, however for those who don’t fancy the return journey you’ll be able to hop on the Land’s End Coaster bus again to Porthcurno. This is without doubt one of the greatest summer time hikes in Cornwall and is appropriate for all ages and ranges of health.
You’ll get to take in the gorgeous Porthcurno seaside, probably the most lovely seashores in Cornwall with nearly turquoise waters lapping on the golden sands, and a rocky shoreline beneath the cliffs.
You should definitely pack sturdy footwear and your swimming wear.
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: Porthcurno, see the route on AllTrails
- Size: 4.8 miles / 7.7 km
- Period: 2h15m
- Sort of Path: Out and again
- Elevation Achieve: 817 ft / 249 meters
7. Bude Coast and Canal Round Stroll
This nice stroll across the Bude shoreline and canal takes in one in all Cornwall’s hottest trip locations (and passes some nice pubs just like the Brendon Arms).
The round stroll contains some gorgeous surroundings alongside one in all my favourite stretches of shoreline. The canal was constructed to carry supplies to the city from the close by hills and is one in all Bude’s nicest options.
The route is an effective way to discover every thing this a part of Cornwall has to supply; from the ocean to the city and open pastures and farmland.
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: Bude, see on AllTrails
- Size: 6.4 miles / 10.3 km
- Period: 2h30m
- Sort of Path: Circle
- Elevation Achieve: 640 ft / 195 meters
8. St Ives to Zenor
St Ives is one in all Cornwall’s high trip locations because the city is perched on a lovely stretch of the coast with beautiful sandy seashores and is backed by dramatic cliffs.
The city itself has one thing of a bohemian vibe with numerous artwork galleries, cafes, and boutique eating places. At 12 miles, this can be a reasonably robust hike that’ll take between 5 and six hours to finish, so a reasonable stage of health is required.
The views over the bays, inlets, and shoreline are definitely worth the effort as the world round St Ives is without doubt one of the greatest locations to hike in Cornwall.
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: St Ives, see the route on AllTrails
- Size: 12 miles / 19.3 km
- Period: 5h25m
- Sort of Path: Circle
- Elevation Achieve: 1,900 ft / 579 meters
9. Tintagel Fort Loop
Tintagel is one in all my favourite locations in Cornwall for its historic citadel, allegedly the house of King Arthur. The small city can also be positioned on a dramatic part of the coast with towering cliffs overlooking secluded bays and hidden coves resembling Merlin’s Cave.
This improbable hike takes in the citadel, cave, seashores, and even one in all Cornwall’s lovely waterfalls at St Nectan’s Kieve. It’s a troublesome route with numerous steps and steep slopes so a reasonable stage of health is required.
The paths can get muddy in winter so be sure you have boots and waterproofs. In summer time, remember to pack loads of water and cowl up with sunscreen. That is one in all my favourite coastal walks in Cornwall because of the wonderful views and historic landmarks alongside the best way.
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: Tintagel, see the route on AllTrails
- Size: 7 miles / 11.4 km
- Period: 3h25m
- Sort of Path: Circle
- Elevation Achieve: 1,315 ft / 401 meters
10. Whole South West Coast Path
For adventurous souls who’re in search of greater than day hikes or a pleasing amble then tackling the complete 630 miles (1,014km) of the southwest coast path is a mammoth, however vastly rewarding endeavor – it’s one thing I’d like to do sooner or later.
The path, which is the longest such mountaineering path in the UK, begins at Minehead in Somerset and runs by means of Devon, Cornwall, again into Devon, and into Dorset on the south coast.
For those who don’t have the posh of the seven or eight weeks it takes to finish, you may as well select a piece and come again and hike totally different elements as time permits.
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: Minehead, Poole Harbor, see the route on AllTrails
- Size: 630 miles / 1,014 km
- Period: 7/8 weeks
- Sort of Path: One-way
- Elevation Achieve: 1,043 ft / 318 meters
The place to Keep for Mountain climbing in Cornwall
These are just a few of the very best areas round Cornwall that make nice bases for mountaineering and strolling in the area.
Padstow
The charming fishing port of Padstow is a superb place to begin for most of the greatest treks in Cornwall from the Camel Path to Polzeath, Daymer Bay, and much more moreover.
There’s a ferry service crossing the Camel Estuary so that you gained’t be confined to westerly hikes solely.
The Old Custom House is a lovely resort positioned in an previous stone constructing proper on the Harbour and is inside simple attain of each the southwest coast path and Camel Path.
Port Isaac
Port Isaac is without doubt one of the prettiest fishing villages in Cornwall and the southwest coast path runs proper alongside the harbor. You possibly can hike west in direction of Padstow or east in direction of Tintagel. There are additionally some nice inland routes beginning in Port Isaac that discover the attractive Cornish countryside.
The Slipway is a wonderful resort simply steps from Port Isaac’s picturesque harbor and the southwest coast path.
Polzeath
Polzeath makes a terrific base for a few of the greatest hikes in Cornwall together with Polzeath to Port Isaac, Padstow to Trevone, and shorter hikes such because the routes to Pentire Level and the Rumps. The city has numerous bars and eating places (the Oystercatcher is my favourite) and is the right base for seaside and mountaineering holidays.
Polzeath Beach House is the right place to remain for mountaineering in Cornwall. The seaside and southwest coast path to Pentire Level, Polzeath, and Padstow is simply steps from this boutique resort.
Penzance
Penzance is a superb vacation spot for hikers seeking to discover the southern and western elements of the Cornish coast and delve into the county’s fascinating historical past of fishermen, pirates, and smugglers.
The Penzance to Newlyn hike is a pleasant simple one which begins in the city, however there’s a lot extra to find.
The Ship Inn is a conventional Cornish pub, restaurant, and resort a stone’s throw from the harbor and coast path.
Bude
Bude is one in all my favourite cities in Cornwall because of its nice seashores and quick access to the coast path and different walks. There’s tons to do in the city itself from swimming and browsing to having fun with bars, eating places, and walks alongside the canal. You should definitely take a look at my favourite watering gap, the Brendon Arms.
Holbein House is a mattress and breakfast simply 500 meters from the seaside and southwest coast path that provides comfy stays at cheap costs.
Mountain climbing in Cornwall: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on mountaineering round Cornwall.
One of the vital standard coastal walks in Cornwall is Porthcurno to Land’s Finish as this takes in the westernmost level of the mainland British Isles and a few of the greatest surroundings in the nation.
The Camel Path is the best hike round Cornwall because it’s nearly fully flat because of following the River Camel and an previous, disused railway line.
There are some nice waterfall trails round Cornwall together with the falls at St Nectan’s Kieve close to Tintagel and Rocky Valley in close by Boscastle. If you wish to head inland then Bodmin Moor additionally has some nice waterfall hikes.
You’ll want sturdy footwear or boots to hit the mountaineering trails in Cornwall as a lot of them embody rocky cliff paths. It also needs to go with out saying that it’s sensible to pack waterproofs as Cornwall has its justifiable share of showers.
Any part of the southwest coast path alongside the north coast is especially lovely. The areas round Tintagel, Port Isaac, and Polzeath supply a few of the greatest views.
Trekking Cornwall could be very secure offering you keep on with the paths on the coast paths and keep away from going out in extreme storms. Hold canine and youngsters shut by when excessive up on the cliffs and don’t go close to any uncovered edges.
The perfect coastal stroll in Cornwall is the part of south west coast path between Polzeath and Port Isaac. This route takes in some unbelievable surroundings, previous villages, secluded seashores, and numerous wildlife alongside the best way.
The complete southwest coast path, which incorporates each Cornwall and Devon, is 630 miles (1,114km). The Cornwall part runs for round 422 miles (697km).
Cornwall is without doubt one of the greatest locations in the UK for mountaineering because of its pristine nature, gorgeous views, seashores, fishing villages, and extra.
In Closing
Mountain climbing in Cornwall is without doubt one of the greatest actions because of the gorgeous surroundings, wildlife, and many great pubs and eating places to find alongside the best way. One of many first issues I do on any go to is to hit the coastal walks in Cornwall to blow away the cobwebs.
Whether or not you might be in search of a brief amble, a day hike, or one thing extra demanding, the Cornwall strolling trails shouldn’t be missed. Many of those hikes round Cornwall take in a few of the county’s most well-known sights resembling Tintagel Fort and Padstow harbor.
In fact, many of those Cornwall treks additionally embody some improbable seashores, so remember to pack your swimming wear if mountaineering in the summer time months. The one query now needs to be, which one in all these nice coastal walks in Cornwall do you have to select first?
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