I was toying with calling this just ‘5 local walks.’ Saying it’s the top 5 local walks, best of the best in Cornwall is a bit hard! Walks are a little subjective and dependent of what kind of walk you’re after. However, they all have one thing in common – sea, fresh air and lots of open space (which we’re all looking for at the moment). I think these have it all; cliffs, secret beaches, cafes, wildlife and local history. They’re not far to drive and more off the beaten track than some. Spring and Autumn are some of the best times to take a walking break in Cornwall, the weather is perfect and the landscape of the more beautiful as the seasons change. Book your break in plenty of time, it tends to be our busiest time of year!
So, in no particular order:
Penare and Dodman (4.7km)
The highest point on the South Coast with two beautiful beaches (Hemmick and Vault) an iron age hill fort and quaint fishing village. From the NT Penare car park head West to Hemmick beach then pick up the coast path following it East all the way to Gorran Haven before heading back across fields. Stunning views of Veryan bay all the way to the Lizard. There is an option for a shorter walk.
Pitstop: Cakebreads Bakery or Coast Path Cafe, Gorran village.
Caerhays and Portholland (3.8km)
A circular walk starting at Porthluney car park, below Caerhays castle heading West to Caerhays’ owned villages of East and West Portholland, both with their own beach, joined at low tide. Little has changed in over 100 years it’s like stepping back in time, with one small shop, a good ice cream stop! The hamlets were the setting for Miss Peregrine’s Home for Perculiar Children and are awarded the status of National Heritage Assets.
Pitstop: The Beach Cafe, Porthluney.
St Anthonys and Bohortha (5.3km)
One of our favourite walks. Head to St Anthony’s lighthouse on the tip of the Roseland. Pick up the South West Coast Path heading North. Don’t miss Little and Great Molunan beaches, a great spot for a swim, to see dolphins and admire some lovely yachts! Head towards Place and catch the Place ferry which leaves from the pontoon beneath Place House for St Mawes. You’ll find the best crab sandwiches at Mr Scorse’s Deli in St Mawes and lovely ice creams in Fudge and More. The ferry runs from April to October, 7 days a week. Place church at the back of Place house is well worth exploring before heading up the hill to Bohortha, crossing over the road to meet the coast path and head West back to the lighthouse.
Pitstop: Mr Scorse Deli, St Mawes or Thirstea Co. Porth.
Porth and Portscatho (4.5km)
A gentle walk from the beautiful Towan beach (great spot for a swim and don’t be surprised if a seal joins you) along the coast path to Portscatho, a lovely fishing village set around a little harbour. Don’t miss the fish cellars in the harbour walls. For a change or scenery head out of the village up the hill to Gerrans, turning left by the car park sign and following the footpath through the Rosteague estate back to Porth.
Pitstop: Tatams, Porthcatho (at the top of the slip way).
St Just and St Mawes (distance)
Two of the most picturesque places in Cornwall and a castle to boot! Start at the car park by St Just church and follow the footpath south through St Just and into open farmland along the Carrick Roads – a huge natural harbour, said to be the third largest in the world and is the deepest natural harbour in western Europe. Eventually you’ll reach St Mawes and the castle built by Henry VIII to protect us from the French and Spanish! Don’t miss The Bear, a beautifully restored Citroen HY van for great coffee and an even better view, in the car park above the castle before heading back along the path to St Just. Take some time before you leave to explore St Just church, said by John Benjamin to be the most beautiful church in England, and dates from the 13th century! There are longer walk options through St Mawes and back on footpaths across fields.
Pitstop: The Bear, top car park above St Mawes castle.
