Mountain climbing in Cornwall is an absolute pleasure and may be loved at any time of the yr. From beautiful clifftop vistas to hidden coves, deserted villages and rural heathland, the coastal walks in Cornwall are as assorted as they’re stunning.
Cornwall is one in every of my favourite locations on this planet because of its beautiful seashores, 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 again and again. There are a lot of 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 actually geared in direction of being outdoor and it’s simple to search out refreshments and lodging alongside the various mountaineering routes.
10 Finest Hikes in Cornwall
Having spent a few years touring round Cornwall, I’ve accomplished numerous hikes. I’ve completed many extra hikes than this in Cornwall, however I’ve narrowed down my favorites to this checklist of 10 based mostly on accessibility, ease, crowds, views alongside the way in which, wildlife, and total 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 Finest Coastal Walks in Cornwall)
The hike from Polzeath to the fishing village of Port Isaac is one in every of my favourite hikes and is the most effective coastal stroll in Cornwall. This hike has all of it; rugged cliffs, abandoned seashores, panoramic views, and winds 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 toddler, so so long as you’re comparatively match, you’re unlikely to search out it too taxing.
You’ll soak up some well-known landmarks corresponding to Pentire Level, the Rumps, the deserted village of Port Quinn, and much more in addition to.
The hike takes round 4-5 hours and in summer season the route is kind of uncovered so you should definitely cowl up and put on sunscreen. Good mountaineering boots or footwear are wanted for some rocky components down by the seashores.
The route may be hiked in both path and you may 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 Acquire: 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 well-liked with cyclists, nevertheless it’s additionally nice for strolling too and is likely one of the greatest simple hikes in Cornwall.
Mountain climbing the 6-mile part between Padstow and Wadebridge is likely 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 way in which and I’ve many comfortable recollections of snacking on the river banks.
This is likely one of the simple hikes round Cornwall and is appropriate for all health ranges. The flat path alongside the Camel Estuary is one in every of 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 Acquire: 380 ft / 116 meters
3. Padstow and Trevone Round Stroll
This reasonably strenuous round stroll beginning and ending in Padstow affords a number of the greatest mountaineering in Cornwall. The route has some improbable views, numerous alternatives for recognizing wildlife, and the added bonus of numerous wonderful pubs and eating places to chill out in after your stroll.
The surroundings on this coastal path in Cornwall is unimaginable and it’s a hike I’ve taken many instances for the views alone. The path consists of coastal and inland sections with towering cliffs, secluded bays, rolling farmland, and naturally the gorgeous fishing city of Padstow.
You’ll should be comparatively match because the path covers rocky coastal paths and cliffs. It’s an awesome stroll to do with canines 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 Acquire: 702 ft / 214 meters
4. Penzance to Newlyn
The round stroll from Penzance to the small village of Newlyn is likely 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 within the beautiful fishing port of Newlyn – probably the most picturesque locations on the south coast.
The route takes in some attention-grabbing native sights 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 trying to discover extra of the southern shoreline, you possibly can comply with the coast path east to Marazion and St Michael’s Mount. One factor’s for certain, 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 Acquire: 377 ft / 115 meters
5. The Lizard Peninsula
Cornwall’s Lizard peninsula is likely one of the most scenic components of the county with rugged cliffs towering above the blue waters of the North Atlantic. This is likely one of the greatest hikes in Cornwall for spectacular views and uncommon wildflower and wildlife recognizing alongside the way in which.
The route begins and finishes at Kynance Cove, famous as probably the most beautiful seashores in Cornwall. This 7-mile hike isn’t too difficult and consists of strolling alongside seashores in addition to some stony, clifftop paths.
Pack your swimwear if making this trek in summer season as there are some improbable seashores alongside the way in which, and as you’ll cross via the city of Lizard, there are many nice choices for lunch (the Prime Home Inn is an ideal conventional pub that serves Cornish ales and hearty meals).
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: Kynance Cove, Lizard, Nationwide Belief Route
- Size: 7 miles / 11 km
- Period: 3h
- Sort of Path: Circle
- Elevation Acquire: 700 ft / 220 meters
6. Porthcurno to Land’s Finish
This simple route is likely one of the greatest hikes round Cornwall and takes within 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 in the event you don’t fancy the return journey you possibly can hop on the Land’s Finish Coaster bus again to Porthcurno. This is likely one of the greatest summer season hikes in Cornwall and is appropriate for all ages and ranges of health.
You’ll get to soak up the beautiful Porthcurno seashore, probably the most stunning seashores in Cornwall with virtually turquoise waters lapping on the golden sands, and a rocky shoreline beneath the cliffs.
Make sure to pack sturdy footwear and your swimwear.
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 Acquire: 817 ft / 249 meters
7. Bude Coast and Canal Round Stroll
This nice stroll across the Bude shoreline and canal takes in one in every of Cornwall’s hottest trip locations (and passes some nice pubs just like the Brendon Arms).
The round stroll consists of some beautiful surroundings alongside one in every of my favourite stretches of shoreline. The canal was constructed to carry supplies to the city from the close by hills and is one in every of Bude’s nicest options.
The route is an effective way to discover every part 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 Acquire: 640 ft / 195 meters
8. St Ives to Zenor
St Ives is one in every of 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, it is a reasonably robust hike that’ll take between 5 and 6 hours to finish, so a reasonable degree of health is required.
The views over the bays, inlets, and shoreline are well worth the effort as the realm round St Ives is likely 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 Acquire: 1,900 ft / 579 meters
9. Tintagel Fortress Loop
Tintagel is one in every of my favourite locations in Cornwall for its historic fortress, allegedly the house of King Arthur. The small city can be situated on a dramatic part of the coast with towering cliffs overlooking secluded bays and hidden coves corresponding to Merlin’s Cave.
This improbable hike takes within the fortress, cave, seashores, and even one in every of Cornwall’s stunning waterfalls at St Nectan’s Kieve. It’s a troublesome route with numerous steps and steep slopes so a reasonable degree of health is required.
The paths can get muddy in winter so be sure to have boots and waterproofs. In summer season, you should definitely pack loads of water and canopy up with sunscreen. That is one in every of my favourite coastal walks in Cornwall because of the superb views and historic landmarks alongside the way in which.
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: Tintagel, see the route on AllTrails
- Size: 7 miles / 11.4 km
- Period: 3h25m
- Sort of Path: Circle
- Elevation Acquire: 1,315 ft / 401 meters
10. Whole South West Coast Path
For adventurous souls who’re searching for greater than day hikes or a pleasing amble then tackling the whole 630 miles (1,014km) of the southwest coast path is a mammoth, however massively rewarding endeavor – it’s one thing I’d like to do sooner or later.
The path, which is the longest such mountaineering path within the UK, begins at Minehead in Somerset and runs via Devon, Cornwall, again into Devon, and into Dorset on the south coast.
For people who don’t have the luxurious of the seven or eight weeks it takes to finish, you may also select a piece and are available again and hike totally different components 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 Acquire: 1,043 ft / 318 meters
The place to Keep for Mountain climbing in Cornwall
These are a number of of the most effective areas round Cornwall that make nice bases for mountaineering and strolling within the area.
Padstow
The charming fishing port of Padstow is a good place to begin for lots of the greatest treks in Cornwall from the Camel Path to Polzeath, Daymer Bay, and much more in addition to.
There’s a ferry service crossing the Camel Estuary so that you received’t be confined to westerly hikes solely.
The Previous Customized Home is a lovely lodge situated 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 likely 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 gorgeous Cornish countryside.
The Slipway is a wonderful lodge simply steps from Port Isaac’s picturesque harbor and the southwest coast path.
Polzeath
Polzeath makes an awesome base for a number 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 seashore and mountaineering holidays.
Polzeath Seaside Home is the right place to remain for mountaineering in Cornwall. The seashore and southwest coast path to Pentire Level, Polzeath, and Padstow is simply steps from this boutique lodge.
Penzance
Penzance is a good vacation spot for hikers trying to discover the southern and western components of the Cornish coast and delve into the county’s attention-grabbing historical past of fishermen, pirates, and smugglers.
The Penzance to Newlyn hike is a pleasant simple one which begins within the city, however there’s a lot extra to find.
The Ship Inn is a standard Cornish pub, restaurant, and lodge a stone’s throw from the harbor and coast path.
Bude
Bude is one in every of my favourite cities in Cornwall because of its nice seashores and quick access to the coast path and different walks. There’s heaps to do within the city itself from swimming and browsing to having fun with bars, eating places, and walks alongside the canal. Make sure to try my favourite watering gap, the Brendon Arms.
Holbein Home is a mattress and breakfast simply 500 meters from the seashore and southwest coast path that provides snug 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 crucial well-liked coastal walks in Cornwall is Porthcurno to Land’s Finish as this takes within the westernmost level of the mainland British Isles and a number of the greatest surroundings within the nation.
The Camel Path is the simplest hike round Cornwall because it’s virtually utterly flat attributable to 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 lots of them embody rocky cliff paths. It must also go with out saying that it’s sensible to pack waterproofs as Cornwall has its fair proportion of showers.
Any part of the southwest coast path alongside the north coast is especially stunning. The areas round Tintagel, Port Isaac, and Polzeath supply a number of the greatest views.
Trekking Cornwall could be very protected offering you stick with the paths on the coast paths and keep away from going out in extreme storms. Maintain canines and youngsters shut by when excessive up on the cliffs and don’t go close to any uncovered edges.
The very best coastal stroll in Cornwall is the part of south west coast path between Polzeath and Port Isaac. This route takes in some unimaginable surroundings, previous villages, secluded seashores, and many wildlife alongside the way in which.
All the 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 likely one of the greatest locations within the UK for mountaineering because of its pristine nature, beautiful views, seashores, fishing villages, and extra.
In Closing
Mountain climbing in Cornwall is likely one of the greatest actions because of the beautiful surroundings, wildlife, and plenty of fantastic pubs and eating places to find alongside the way in which. 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’re searching for 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 soak up a number of the county’s most well-known sights corresponding to Tintagel Fortress and Padstow harbor.
In fact, many of those Cornwall treks additionally embody some improbable seashores, so you should definitely pack your swimwear if mountaineering in the summertime months. The one query now ought to be, which one in every of these nice coastal walks in Cornwall must you select first?
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