Since lockdown began, I have found myself daydreaming daily of the Cornish coast. Frustratingly, I am only a 20-minute drive away from the sea but due to lockdown restrictions, haven't seen a single drop of salty water in over 6-weeks.
In an attempt to fulfil my longing for the coast, I have been pouring over as many images of the Cornish coastline on social media I can find; slightly worried it has become an unhealthy obsession, it nevertheless has abated my somewhat fixation on the sea. As much as I long to dip my toes in the water and ramble along our spectacular coast paths, I know it will still be there waiting for me and the group when this strange time finally comes to an end.
Until then, I thought I'd put all this free time to use and reveal my top 10 coastal walks in Cornwall.
Ready...
1. Chapel Porth to St. Agnes - 6 miles
I took the group along the undulating coastline from Chapel Porth to St. Agnes at the beginning of 2020 and it did not disappoint. With its spectacular sights of St. Agnes Head, Trevaunance Cove and Wheal Coates this walk will leave you spellbound and wanting more. There are many memories tied up in this particular stretch of sweeping coastline for members of my family, so it holds a special place in my heart. It is also a walk that will leave you breathless from the undeniably magnificent views (and climbs!), so be prepared to leave a little of your heart behind too!
You can read more on this walk in my blog 'Anyone For A Hedgehog?'
2. Hell's Mouth to Godrevy - 5 miles
Hell’s Mouth is situated northeast of Gwithian on the South West coast path and although it isn’t clear where this craggy Cornish cove earned its name, Hell’s Mouth is a tragic stretch of coast where numerous people have taken their lives or fallen to the crashing waves below. But don’t panic, this particular area is now well looked after by the National Trust and being one of the highest points in the area, gives you spectacular views out to sea and the surrounding cliff edges.
One of the highlights of this walk is Mutton Cove, where you’ll find a large grey seal colony which you can view from the cliff top. During breeding season you can see plenty of these glorious mammals sleeping and swimming. Although it is great to go and visit these characters, it is highly recommended you do not descend down to the beach or disturb the seals in any way.
You can read more on this walk in my blog 'Spot the Seals'.
3. Boscastle to Rocky Valley - 7 miles
Have you ever visited a place that makes you feel you’re no longer in your homeland, but somewhere completely different? That although you’ve only gone a few miles from your doorstep, it feels as if you’re the other side of the world. On arriving into Boscastle, you are instantly transported into a scene much like a picturesque fairy tale. With its quaint buildings, surrounding billowing coastlines, deep coombs and romantic natural harbour, it’s hard to not be in awe at this beautiful Cornish village.
You can read more on this walk in my blog 'Spellbound at Boscastle'.
4. Port Quin to Port Isaac - 5 miles
If you’re looking for a mini Cornish walking challenge, then I can most definitely suggest the impressive Port Quin to Port Isaac route. Also known as the ‘Rollercoaster Path’, you’ll be left short breathed, not only from the number of steps you’ll have to clamber up and down, but from the most magnificent views - endless coastlines and rolling waves to gawp at as you gather yourself, and your breath, after the steep inclines. This walk is only 5 miles, but it is a perfect amount of mileage if you’re after something picturesque and exhilarating.
You can read more on this walk in my blog 'Rollercoaster Rambling'.
5. St. Just to Nanquidno - 7 miles
The last ramble with the group before lockdown, this walk was full of muddy adventures and jaw-dropping views of the coastline. Being slightly out of breath for most of it was forgiven when you had the sea winking at you in delight. With mile upon mile of craggy coastline to enjoy and marvel at, this walk really is quite special and one I feel definitely deserves to be in the top 10 rambles you must put on your bucket list of walks to do in Cornwall.
Blog in progress, watch this space...
6. Bedruthan Steps to Porthcothan - 6 miles
Come on. Do I really need to give an explanation as to why this is in my top 10? Just look at it. Those tantalising peaks and delectable curves will tempt you back time and time again. I have lost count how many times my walking books have traipsed this particular stretch of coast. Bedruthan Steps is located on the north Cornish coast between Padstow and Newquay and is a hiker's paradise.
7. St. Anthony Head, Falmouth - 6 miles
This walk is an absolute beauty. Starting along the Roseland, you will take in many glorious sights, including St. Anthony Head which is at the tip (no pun intended!) of the Roseland Peninsula, and the spectacular lighthouse which, fun fact for you all, was featured in the UK version of Jim Henderson's Fraggle Rock.
With plenty of coastline, stunning beaches and views across to St. Mawes, St. Mawes Castle and The Percuil River, this walk really is quite remarkable.
8. The Lizard and Kynance Cove - 4.5 miles
Of course this would feature in my top 10 coastal walks in Cornwall. I'd be daft if I didn't think it was right up there with some of my favourite places to explore on foot.
This route takes in the most southerly point in Britain, The Lizard, as well as the astounding Kynance Cove. Fascinatingly, the rocks at Kynance are multicoloured due to being sculpted by the sea. You can see why it is a popular tourist destination and certainly a place I will be taking my ramblers again soon.
9. Perranuthnoe to Prussia Cove - 4 miles
Prussia Cove, formerly called King's Cove, is a small private estate on the coast of Mount's Bay and is a beautiful area of west Cornwall.
This route takes you past many small coves that you'll be itching to explore as well as some pretty impressive panoramic shots across Mount's Bay and St. Michael's Mount.
10. Widemouth Bay to Bude - 6 miles
Last but by no means least, right at the very top of Cornwall you will find Bude and another spectacular coastal walk. Bude is somewhere I've spent many a weekend and will always hold a special place in my heart. A popular tourist destination, you can see why so many flock here for a seaside break.
Starting at Widemouth Bay, this gentle walk is perfect if you have a spare Sunday or a free afternoon and fancy venturing somewhere with breath-taking views. It’s also great if you’re not after anything overly strenuous but still want to get your heart racing a little. With a mixture of coastal and canal walking you’ll begin the walk staring out to sea and finish it on level pathways that snake alongside Bude canal.
You can read more on this walk in my blog 'Budeiful Wanderings'.
So there we go; my top 10 coastal locations to go walking in Cornwall. To be fair, I could go to any part of the Cornish coast and fall in love with it. I think you'd be hard pushed to find a coastal path in Cornwall that didn't captivate you with its abundance of views, and leave you gawping in adoration and euphoria.
I will be planning many rambles as soon as I get the go ahead it's safe to do so. Please keep your eyes peeled for our next adventure and if you haven't already, sign up to the mailing list to keep up to date with all Cornish Ramblings related shenanigans.
Jody x