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A breathtaking coastal footpath leading to Maenporth Beach, offering panoramic sea views and the chance to spot seals from land or water.

The Best Spots for Nature Enthusiasts in Cornwall: Where to Find Wildlife, Marine Life & Natural Wonders

Introduction

One of the reasons we love living in Cornwall is because it’s a veritable paradise for nature lovers. From rugged cliffs teeming with seabirds to ancient woodlands, tranquil lakes, and wildflower-strewn meadows, there’s no shortage of breathtaking landscapes to explore. At Trewena Cottages, we’re lucky to be surrounded by some of the best nature spots in Cornwall. Whether you love hiking, birdwatching, rock pooling, or simply soaking up the beauty of the outdoors, there’s something here for you.

With that in mind, here’s our ultimate guide to Cornwall’s best spots for nature enthusiasts—many just a short drive (or even a walk) from Trewena.


1. Rugged Coastlines & Clifftop Wonders

South West Coast Path

Stretching over 630 miles, the South West Coast Path offers some of the most spectacular walks in the country. Near Trewena, the route from Falmouth to Maenporth is a stunner, offering cliff-top views, hidden coves, and a chance to spot seals, peregrine falcons, and even the occasional pod of dolphins. This path is an absolute must for hikers and nature lovers alike, winding through some of Cornwall’s most dramatic coastal landscapes. As you walk, keep an eye on the cliffs for kestrels hovering above, and in spring, the grassy verges explode with wildflowers such as thrift and sea campion.

The Lizard Peninsula

Home to some of Britain’s rarest flora and fauna, The Lizard Peninsula is a must-visit. Its unique geology supports rare wildflowers, and if you’re lucky, you might spot Cornwall’s famous chough—a striking red-beaked bird that has made a comeback in recent years. Kynance Cove, with its turquoise waters and striking rock formations, feels almost tropical on a sunny day. Nearby, Lizard Point is the UK’s most southerly point, where you can often see seals lounging on the rocks below. The area is also a hotspot for rare plant species, including the beautiful Cornish heath, which only grows in this part of the world.

Bedruthan Steps

One of Cornwall’s most dramatic coastal landscapes, Bedruthan Steps is a series of colossal sea stacks surrounded by golden sands. A haven for seabirds, this National Trust-protected site is perfect for photography, wildlife spotting, and rock pooling. Legend has it that the towering rock stacks were placed there by the giant Bedruthan as stepping stones. The views from the cliffs are breathtaking, and in spring and early summer, you’ll see waves of pink thrift covering the headlands. It’s a fantastic spot for sunset, as the golden light highlights the rugged beauty of the coastline.


2. Woodlands & Garden Havens

Kennall Vale Nature Reserve

A magical woodland near Penryn, Kennall Vale is a real bona-fide hidden gem. Once home to a 19th-century gunpowder works, its mossy ruins, rushing streams, and dense trees now create a fairytale-like setting. Keep an eye out for kingfishers and otters. Come spring wild garlic carpets the forest floor and conjures up the gorgeous smalls to go with it; a real treat for the senses. This tranquil reserve is also a great place for spotting bats at dusk, and if you’re very lucky (and very light on your feet), you might even glimpse a shy roe deer weaving through the trees.

Tehidy Woods

Another somewhat hidden gem to get you away from the coastal tourist honeypots is Cornwall’s largest area of woodland, Tehidy. The woods boasts miles of paths through peaceful native forests, home to grey squirrels, badgers, and a huge variety of birdlife. It’s a great spot for a gentle nature walk, especially in autumn when the trees put on a colourful display. The woods were once part of the great Basset family estate, one of Cornwall’s most powerful mining dynasties. Today, you’ll find well-marked trails leading to hidden ponds. If you’re up for a snack after your adventures there’s some lovely picnic areas, and even a small café near the northern entrance.

Trebah Garden & Glendurgan Garden

For a more cultivated but no less wild experience, Trebah and Glendurgan Gardens offer exotic plant species, hidden paths, and secret beaches. As a National Trust member I visit the latter at least once every couple of months in order to see the landscape change through the seasons. Both places sweep through valleys towards the Helford River and are sheltered enough to create special microclimates that encourage an amazing variety of both flora and fauna. They are fantastic for nature lovers who enjoy a blend of curated beauty and untamed wilderness. Trebah’s stunning sub-tropical valley garden is a paradise of tree ferns, giant gunnera, and meandering streams. Meanwhile, Glendurgan is famous for its 19th-century laurel maze, which is just as fun for adults as it is for children!

A scenic view of Glendurgan Garden’s lush green maze, exotic plants, and winding pathways, nestled in Cornwall’s stunning countryside.
Lose yourself in the beauty of Glendurgan Garden, where sub-tropical plants, shaded trails, and a famous 19th-century laurel maze make for an unforgettable visit.

3. Wetlands, Rivers & Hidden Estuaries

Helford River & Frenchman’s Creek

The Helford River is one of Cornwall’s most peaceful estuaries, winding through ancient oak woodlands. Best explored by kayak, it’s home to otters, herons, and egrets. Daphne du Maurier’s famous novel Frenchman’s Creek was inspired by this magical landscape. Exploring the creek by water offers an entirely new perspective, as the tree-lined banks reflect perfectly onto the mirror-like water on a still day.

Marazion Marsh

This RSPB reserve is a fantastic place for birdwatching. Located near St Michael’s Mount, it’s home to bitterns, marsh harriers, and a huge variety of wetland birds. Spring and autumn migrations bring an influx of rare species, making it an exciting spot for keen birdwatchers. The marsh’s reedbeds provide a safe haven for numerous species, and you may even spot an elusive water rail scurrying among them.

Loe Pool & Penrose Estate

Cornwall’s largest natural freshwater lake, Loe Pool, is a serene spot for a nature walk. The surrounding Penrose Estate offers a mix of woodland and coastal paths, making it a great place for spotting dragonflies, kingfishers, and even the elusive otter. The estate was once home to the Penrose family, and its sprawling parkland provides a perfect mix of nature and history.


4. Lakes & Birdwatching Havens

Argal Lake

A peaceful lake near Trewena, Argal Lake is surrounded by scenic walking trails and offers dedicated birdwatching hides. The lake is a haven for waterfowl. I walk here most days with our dog and frequently spot great crested grebes, cormorants, and herons stalking the shallows. There’s also a dank wooded section at the far end of the lake with a birdwatching hide. If you’re willing to get up at the break of dawn you’ll almost certainly see a resident Barn Owl too!

Stithians Lake

One of Cornwall’s top birdwatching sites, Stithians Lake has several hides perfect for spotting waders, wildfowl, and even ospreys during their Autumn migration season. There are three hides dotted around the shores of the lake for birdwatchers. The surrounding moorland and meadows also provide excellent opportunities for butterfly and dragonfly spotting.


5. Wildlife Sanctuaries, Marine Adventures & Trewena’s Natural Haven

Whilst in Cornwall it’s easy to get out and amongst the wonderous wildlife it has to offer, but there’s also plenty of opportunities for folks to get a slightly more mediated experience with some fab furry friends and also to get up close to some hard-to-see marine life.

Sealife Cruises

For those looking to explore Cornwall’s marine life up close, AK Wildlife Cruises in Falmouth is a must. These guided boat trips take visitors out into the open sea to spot dolphins, porpoises, basking sharks, and even whales. Along the way, expert guides provide fascinating insights into the marine ecosystems of Cornwall, making this a truly immersive wildlife experience.

Cornish Seal Sanctuary

Located in Gweek, the Cornish Seal Sanctuary is a rescue and rehabilitation centre for injured and orphaned seals. Visitors can learn about their conservation efforts while getting up close to grey seals, common seals, and even the sanctuary’s resident walrus. The sanctuary also provides a home for beavers, otters, and other native wildlife, making it a fantastic place to visit for nature lovers of all ages.

Flicka Foundation Donkey Sanctuary

Right next door to Trewena, the Flicka Foundation is home to over 100 rescued donkeys and ponies, and is one of Falmouth’s top attractions. This peaceful sanctuary offers a chance to see these gentle animals up close while learning about the charity’s incredible work in equine welfare. It’s a wonderful place for a relaxing countryside visit, and by stopping by, you’re supporting their ongoing efforts to provide a safe haven for these rescued animals.

Trewena’s Own Wildlife Spaces

And then of course there’s us! As nature lovers, at Trewena Cottages, we’ve worked hard to create a haven for wildlife within our own three-acre smallholding. Our wildflower meadows provide essential food for bees and butterflies, whilst our newly established orchard attracts a variety of birds. Guests can often spot hedgehogs, badgers, and barn owls at dusk. Birdwatchers will enjoy the variety of species that visit, including blue tits, great spotted woodpeckers, and goldfinches. Staying at Trewena means immersing yourself in a peaceful, wildlife-rich environment while having access to Cornwall’s best nature spots.

A picturesque wildflower meadow at Trewena Cottages, teeming with vibrant flora and buzzing with pollinators.
The wildflower meadow at Trewena—an ever-changing landscape filled with seasonal blooms, birdsong, and a haven for local wildlife.

Whether you’re exploring Cornwall’s rugged cliffs, tranquil lakes, or secret woodland paths, nature lovers will find endless wonders here. Staying at Trewena Cottages means you’ll be perfectly placed to experience the best of Cornwall’s natural beauty, with off-road parking, cosy cottages, and plenty of local knowledge on hand to help you make the most of your stay.

So, book your stay at Trewena, grab your walking boots, and let Cornwall’s wild side work its magic!