Climbing in Cornwall is an absolute pleasure and may be loved at any time of the 12 months. From beautiful clifftop vistas to hidden coves, deserted villages and rural heathland, the coastal walks in Cornwall are as diversified as they’re stunning.
Cornwall is one among 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 mountain climbing 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 mountain climbing trails in Cornwall from simple day hikes to multi-day long-distance treks.
You’ll be able to select coastal footpaths, inland routes, or mix each. Cornwall is admittedly geared in direction of being outdoor and it’s simple to search out refreshments and lodging alongside the various mountain climbing routes.
10 Finest Hikes in Cornwall
Having spent a few years touring round Cornwall, I’ve accomplished numerous hikes. I’ve finished many extra hikes than this in Cornwall, however I’ve narrowed down my favorites to this listing of 10 based mostly on accessibility, ease, crowds, views alongside the way in which, wildlife, and total enjoyment on the path.
Cornwall’s mountain climbing trails provide 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 among my favourite hikes and is the perfect 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 mountain climbing 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 search out it too taxing.
You’ll absorb 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 season the route is kind of uncovered so make sure you cowl up and put on sunscreen. Good mountain climbing boots or footwear are wanted for some rocky elements 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
- Length: 4h30m
- Kind of Path: Out and again
- Elevation Achieve: 1,496 toes / 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 among the greatest simple hikes in Cornwall.
Climbing the 6-mile part between Padstow and Wadebridge is among 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 glad reminiscences of snacking on the river banks.
This is among the simple hikes round Cornwall and is appropriate for all health ranges. The flat path alongside the Camel Estuary is one among my favourite Cornwall trails and is one I’ve loved numerous occasions since childhood to more moderen occasions.
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: Padstow, Wadebridge, Bodmin
- Size: 6 miles / 9.8 km
- Length: 2h10m
- Kind of Path: Out and again
- Elevation Achieve: 380 toes / 116 meters
3. Padstow and Trevone Round Stroll
This reasonably strenuous round stroll beginning and ending in Padstow affords a number of the greatest mountain climbing in Cornwall. The route has some improbable views, a lot of alternatives for recognizing wildlife, and the added bonus of a lot of glorious pubs and eating places to chill out in after your stroll.
The surroundings on this coastal path in Cornwall is unbelievable and it’s a hike I’ve taken many occasions for the views alone. The path contains 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 a fantastic stroll to do with canines and kids who’re used to mountain climbing. This Cornwall mountain climbing 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
- Length: 3h
- Kind of Path: Circle
- Elevation Achieve: 702 toes / 214 meters
4. Penzance to Newlyn
The round stroll from Penzance to the small village of Newlyn is among 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 – some of the 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 trying to discover extra of the southern shoreline, you may 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
- Length: half-hour
- Kind of Path: Circle
- Elevation Achieve: 377 toes / 115 meters
5. The Lizard Peninsula
Cornwall’s Lizard peninsula is among the most scenic elements of the county with rugged cliffs towering above the blue waters of the North Atlantic. This is among 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 some of the beautiful seashores 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 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 High 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
- Length: 3h
- Kind of Path: Circle
- Elevation Achieve: 700 toes / 220 meters
6. Porthcurno to Land’s Finish
This simple route is among 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 may hop on the Land’s Finish Coaster bus again to Porthcurno. This is among the greatest summer season hikes in Cornwall and is appropriate for all ages and ranges of health.
You’ll get to absorb the beautiful Porthcurno seaside, some of the stunning seashores in Cornwall with virtually turquoise waters lapping on the golden sands, and a rocky shoreline beneath the cliffs.
You’ll want to 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
- Length: 2h15m
- Kind of Path: Out and again
- Elevation Achieve: 817 toes / 249 meters
7. Bude Coast and Canal Round Stroll
This nice stroll across the Bude shoreline and canal takes in one among Cornwall’s hottest trip locations (and passes some nice pubs just like the Brendon Arms).
The round stroll contains some beautiful surroundings alongside one among my favourite stretches of shoreline. The canal was constructed to carry supplies to the city from the close by hills and is one among Bude’s nicest options.
The route is a good way to discover the whole lot 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
- Length: 2h30m
- Kind of Path: Circle
- Elevation Achieve: 640 toes / 195 meters
8. St Ives to Zenor
St Ives is one among Cornwall’s prime trip locations because the city is perched on a phenomenal 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 a lot of artwork galleries, cafes, and boutique eating places. At 12 miles, it is a reasonably powerful 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 world round St Ives is among 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
- Length: 5h25m
- Kind of Path: Circle
- Elevation Achieve: 1,900 toes / 579 meters
9. Tintagel Citadel Loop
Tintagel is one among my favourite locations in Cornwall for its historic citadel, allegedly the house of King Arthur. The small city can also be situated on a dramatic part of the coast with towering cliffs overlooking secluded bays and hidden coves resembling Merlin’s Cave.
This improbable hike takes within the citadel, cave, seashores, and even one among Cornwall’s stunning waterfalls at St Nectan’s Kieve. It’s a tricky route with a lot of steps and steep slopes so a reasonable degree of health is required.
The paths can get muddy in winter so be sure you have boots and waterproofs. In summer season, make sure you pack loads of water and canopy up with sunscreen. That is one among 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
- Length: 3h25m
- Kind of Path: Circle
- Elevation Achieve: 1,315 toes / 401 meters
10. Total South West Coast Path
For adventurous souls who’re in search of greater than day hikes or a nice amble then tackling your entire 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 at some point.
The path, which is the longest such mountain climbing 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 posh of the seven or eight weeks it takes to finish, you too can select a piece and are available 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
- Length: 7/8 weeks
- Kind of Path: One-way
- Elevation Achieve: 1,043 toes / 318 meters
The place to Keep for Climbing in Cornwall
These are a couple of of the perfect areas round Cornwall that make nice bases for mountain climbing and strolling within the area.
Padstow
The charming fishing port of Padstow is a good start line 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 received’t be confined to westerly hikes solely.
The Outdated Customized Home is a phenomenal 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 among the prettiest fishing villages in Cornwall and the southwest coast path runs proper alongside the harbor. You’ll be able to 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 a fantastic 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 a lot of bars and eating places (the Oystercatcher is my favourite) and is the right base for seaside and mountain climbing holidays.
Polzeath Seaside Home is the right place to remain for mountain climbing in Cornwall. The seaside 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 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 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 among 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 within the city itself from swimming and browsing to having fun with bars, eating places, and walks alongside the canal. You’ll want to take a look at my favourite watering gap, the Brendon Arms.
Holbein Home is a mattress and breakfast simply 500 meters from the seaside and southwest coast path that provides snug stays at cheap costs.
Climbing in Cornwall: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on mountain climbing round Cornwall.
One of the crucial standard 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 best hike round Cornwall because it’s virtually utterly flat as a result 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 mountain climbing trails in Cornwall as lots of them embody rocky cliff paths. It also needs to go with out saying that it’s clever 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 provide a number of the greatest views.
Trekking Cornwall could be very secure offering you persist with the paths on the coast paths and keep away from going out in extreme storms. Hold canines and kids 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 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 among the greatest locations within the UK for mountain climbing because of its pristine nature, beautiful views, seashores, fishing villages, and extra.
In Closing
Climbing in Cornwall is among the greatest actions because of the beautiful surroundings, wildlife, and lots of great 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 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 absorb a number of the county’s most well-known sights resembling Tintagel Citadel and Padstow harbor.
After all, many of those Cornwall treks additionally embody some improbable seashores, so make sure you pack your swimming wear if mountain climbing in the summertime months. The one query now ought to be, which one among these nice coastal walks in Cornwall must you select first?
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