Introduction
The South West Coast Path has been a constant thread throughout my life. I spent my younger years exploring the cliffs and coves around Polzeath, later moving to Wadebridge, where the northern sections of the path became my stomping ground. In my younger years, I was always in the water, surfing along the rugged north coast, where the Atlantic crashes against towering rock formations.
Since moving south and establishing our life at Trewena, I’ve discovered the wilder western stretches and the gentler, more serene southern coastline. The beauty of the South West Coast Path is how it evolves as you travel—each section tells its own story, from the windswept mining relics of the west to the lush, almost subtropical feel of the south. Whether it’s a day-long adventure or a quick walk to clear my head, there’s no better place to be.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the South West Coast Path is its deep connection to history, both above and below the waves. Cornwall’s treacherous coastline has claimed countless vessels over the centuries, with shipwrecks still resting beneath the surf—silent relics of past storms and maritime tragedies. Some sections of the path lead past rusting remains of old wrecks, while others conceal hidden stories beneath the waves, like the wreck of the Bay of Panama near Perranporth or the infamous Mohegan disaster off the Lizard in 1898. But the sea hasn’t just taken from Cornwall; for centuries, it provided a livelihood to generations of fishermen whose families still call this coastline home. Inland, the landscape tells another tale—of the tin and copper mines that once powered the region’s economy, with shafts stretching far beneath the ocean floor, and of an agricultural heritage that shaped the patchwork fields, ancient settlements, and market towns you see today. Walking these routes, you can almost hear the echoes of the past—miners heading home at dusk, farmers tending the land, and the creak of a wooden mast lost to the waves.
The wildlife along the South West Coast Path is just as captivating as its history. Along the way, you might spot grey seals basking on rocky outcrops, peregrine falcons soaring above dramatic cliffs, or even dolphins playing in the surf. The diverse habitats—from windswept heathland to lush estuaries—support a remarkable range of birds, butterflies, and marine life, making every walk a nature lover’s dream.
When I’m not busy at Trewena Cottages, I grab my boots, pack a pasty, and hit the trail. Sometimes I tackle an all-day epic, other times just a short stomp to a jaw-dropping viewpoint. I’m always happy to share my recommendations—so if you’re staying with us and fancy a world-class coastal walk, just ask! Here are some of my absolute favourite sections of the South West Coast Path, each with its own unique character, breath-taking scenery, and unforgettable moments. So without further ado – and in no particular order, let’s go!
1. Porthleven to The Lizard – Wild Cliffs, Secret Coves, and Cornwall’s Southernmost Point
This 13-mile section of the South West Coast Path is a stunning journey along Cornwall’s ever-changing coastline, taking in dramatic cliffs, historic shipwreck sites, golden beaches, and some of the most famous coves in the Duchy. From the fishing town of Porthleven to the remote beauty of The Lizard, this is a walk that offers an incredible mix of history, scenery, and wildlife.
Starting in Porthleven, Cornwall’s most southerly working harbour, the walk quickly leaves behind the town and heads toward Loe Bar, one of the most intriguing stretches of coastline in Cornwall. Loe Bar is a natural sandbank, separating Loe Pool—Cornwall’s largest natural freshwater lake—from the sea. This shifting barrier of sand has a tragic history, notorious for shipwrecks, as the lack of a natural harbour here meant that many vessels found themselves at the mercy of the Atlantic storms. The contrast between the wild ocean on one side and the still, dark waters of the pool on the other is almost eerie, a reminder of nature’s raw power.
Continuing along the coast, the path leads to Gunwalloe Church Cove, where St Winwaloe’s Church, with its distinctive detached bell tower, sits just above the sand. This spot has been linked to smugglers for centuries, and it’s easy to see why—its remote position made it perfect for bringing in contraband under cover of darkness. Just around the corner lies Dollar Cove, named after the silver coins thatare rumoured to have washed up from shipwrecks lost offshore. Stories tell of treasure still buried beneath the sand, adding an air of mystery to this already dramatic
Further along, the coast becomes wilder and more rugged, with the cliffs rising dramatically above the crashing waves. Mullion Cove, a small but spectacular fishing harbour, offers a great rest stop, with its historic lifeboat station and dramatic rock formations. This is a fantastic place to watch seals basking on the rocks or see peregrine falcons hunting along the cliffs.
The final stretch of this walk leads to the legendary Kynance Cove, one of the most famous and photographed beaches in Cornwall. With its turquoise waters, white sands, and towering rock formations, Kynance looks almost tropical on a sunny day. At low tide, you can explore hidden caves and sea arches, while the nearby Kynance Café is the perfect place to stop for a well-earned rest before the last push toward The Lizard.
The final stretch of the walk leads to Lizard Point, the most southerly point of mainland Britain. The Lizard Lighthouse, first built in 1752, has guided sailors safely past these treacherous waters for centuries. Nearby, you’ll also find the old Lizard Wireless Station, where in 1901, Guglielmo Marconi successfully sent some of the first long-distance wireless transmissions, marking a turning point in global communication.
This is a walk that truly encapsulates Cornwall’s wild beauty, rich history, and ever-changing landscape. From smugglers’ coves to shipwreck tales, stunning beaches to dramatic cliffs, every step offers something unforgettable. If you’re looking for a long and rewarding day’s hike, Porthleven to The Lizard is one of the finest stretches of the South West Coast Path.
2. The Lizard to Coverack – A Journey Through Cornwall’s Wild South
This 10-mile stretch of the South West Coast Path offers one of the most remote and unspoiled walking experiences in Cornwall. Leaving Lizard Point, the path takes you through serpentine-clad cliffs, hidden coves, and ancient fishing villages, before reaching the tranquil beauty of Coverack. It’s a route that showcases the raw, untamed beauty of the Lizard Peninsula, with its unique geology, fascinating history, and incredible wildlife.
As you leave Lizard Point behind, the path meanders along serpentine rock formations, which give the area its distinctive, colourful cliffs. This rare rock, found in only a few places in the world, has long been quarried here. The path brings you past a real favourite of mine – the Old Serpentine Works, where this unique stone was once shipped in a short lived Victorian era fashion for it to be formed into beautiful ornaments and souvenirs, You can still buy the odd serpentine trinket on the Lizard shaped by local craftsmen.
One of the first highlights of the walk is Cadgwith, a quintessential Cornish fishing village with thatched cottages clinging to the hillside. This village has managed to retain its traditional charm, with a working fishing fleet still operating from the small cove. The slipway is often lined with wooden fishing boats, and the smell of fresh fish lingers in the air. A visit to the Fishermen’s Loft, a community-led project that saved the village’s old net loft from redevelopment, is a testament to the strong local heritage and pride. Just a short detour from the path is St Mary’s Church, an interesting and unusual church with a tin roof—one of the few of its kind in Cornwall—making it well worth a quick visit.
Further along, you’ll come to the Devil’s Frying Pan, a dramatic collapsed sea cave where waves surge through a narrow gap, creating a bubbling cauldron effect. The cliffs along this stretch are some of the most rugged in Cornwall, and you’ll pass through numerous hidden coves that were once favoured by smugglers and wreckers.
This coastline has seen countless shipwrecks, and the remains of The St. Keverne, a ship that ran aground here, can sometimes be seen at low tide. The area’s dangerous reputation led to the construction of the Lizard Lifeboat Station, which has saved countless lives since it was established.
The final stretch of the walk brings you into Coverack, a small but beautiful village with a sheltered bay, making it one of the few safe harbours on this otherwise treacherous coastline. Coverack is known for its crystal-clear waters and charming thatched cottages.
Coverack’s history is tied to the sea—it was once a major centre for pilchard fishing, and its natural harbour, protected from the prevailing westerly winds, made it a safer refuge than many of the more exposed coves on the western side of the Lizard Peninsula. This difference in coastal conditions also contributes to the diverse wildlife found here—look out for seals resting on sheltered rocks, herons wading in the shallows, and even oystercatchers foraging along the tideline. and even today, the village retains its maritime charm. The beach here is a great place to sit and reflect on the walk, taking in the contrast between the wild cliffs of the Lizard and the calm, blue waters of Coverack Bay.
This walk offers an incredible mix of geology, history, and natural beauty, making it one of the best sections of the South West Coast Path for those seeking solitude and a true sense of Cornwall’s rugged heritage.
3. Crackington Haven to Tintagel – Wild Cliffs and Legendary Landscapes
This is one of the most dramatic and physically demanding sections of the South West Coast Path, but it rewards every step with breathtaking views, staggering cliffs, and a deep connection to Cornwall’s mythology and history. The stretch from Crackington Haven to Tintagel is a rollercoaster of steep ascents and descents, traversing some of the highest cliffs in Cornwall, where the raw power of the Atlantic has sculpted the coastline into something both beautiful and formidable.
The walk starts in Crackington Haven, a small but stunning cove framed by towering slate cliffs. This section is also geologically significant, as it passes through the Crackington Formation, a dramatic sequence of folded sedimentary rock formed over 300 million years ago. The distinct zigzagging rock formations seen along the cliffs are a testament to immense geological forces and are a favourite subject for geologists and photographers alike.
Once a key location for the 19th-century shipbuilding industry, Crackington’s rugged shoreline has also seen its fair share of shipwrecks. The most famous was the William & Mary, which went down in 1898, a grim reminder of the coast’s reputation as a sailor’s nightmare. Today, the village is a sleepy retreat, with a handful of cafés perfect for a pre-hike coffee.
Leaving Crackington, the path immediately throws you into the challenge of High Cliff, Cornwall’s tallest cliff at 223m. This stretch is not for the faint-hearted, but the payoff is immense—on clear days, you can see for miles along the north coast, with seabirds wheeling overhead and peregrine falcons diving into the waves below.
After navigating the steep descent and climb past Rusey Cliff, the path undulates along the edge of The Strangles, a beach known for its sea caves and towering rock formations. The beach takes its name from its deadly history—many a ship has met its fate on the treacherous reefs just offshore. If the tide allows, a short detour to the sand below reveals Northern Door, a massive rock arch carved by centuries of pounding surf.
Pushing onwards, the route continues through Rocky Valley, a deep gorge carved by the Trevillet River, where Bronze Age labyrinth carvings can be found on the rock face—some of the oldest known in Britain. The valley has an almost mystical quality, with its twisting waters and ancient ruins hidden in the undergrowth.
Finally, you arrive at Tintagel, a place steeped in Arthurian legend. The ruins of Tintagel Castle, perched on a rocky outcrop, are said to be the birthplace of King Arthur, drawing visitors from around the world. Whether you believe in the myths or not, the setting is undeniably magical—Merlin’s Cave, dramatic sea views, and an atmosphere of history woven into every stone.
This stretch of the South West Coast Path is as physically challenging as it is awe-inspiring, but if you love untamed landscapes, ancient history, and a true sense of adventure, this is a walk you’ll never forget.
4. Portreath to Hayle – Cornwall’s Industrial Past, Rugged Cliffs, and Vast Golden Beaches
This spectacular section of the South West Coast Path is a journey through Cornwall’s industrial heritage, wild cliff-top paths, and endless golden beaches. Starting at the historic port of Portreath, once a bustling hub for Cornwall’s copper mining industry, this walk takes you along rugged cliffs before descending to the expansive dunes and estuaries of Hayle.
Portreath itself still bears the marks of its industrial past, with remnants of old tramways and mining infrastructure hinting at a time when this was a crucial export point for Cornish copper. As you leave the village, the path climbs steeply towards Western Hill, offering breathtaking views over the Atlantic and the craggy coastline that lies ahead.
This stretch is also a haven for wildlife, particularly seabirds. Keep an eye out for guillemots, razorbills, and even the occasional puffin nesting in the cliffs. Offshore, grey seals are often spotted bobbing in the surf, while peregrine falcons patrol the skies, searching for prey.
Further along the route, you’ll encounter Hell’s Mouth, a dramatic chasm in the cliffs where the Atlantic surges into a sheer-walled gorge, creating an awe-inspiring display of nature’s force. This area has a haunting history, with treacherous waters that have claimed many ships over the centuries. Just beyond, Mutton Cove is a must-visit for wildlife lovers—it’s one of the best places in Cornwall to observe grey seals hauling out on the sands below. During the autumn and winter months, dozens of seals can be seen resting here, safe from human disturbance.
Further along, you’ll pass the stunning Godrevy Lighthouse, which sits on an island just off the coast. Made famous by Virginia Woolf’s novel To the Lighthouse, this striking landmark is an iconic sight along the Cornish coast. The surrounding waters are also prime territory for spotting basking sharks, which migrate here in the warmer months.
The final stretch of the walk brings you into the vast dunes of Gwithian and Hayle Towans, where golden sands stretch as far as the eye can see. The path eventually winds into the town of Hayle, once a major industrial centre and now a picturesque estuary town with a thriving birdwatching scene.
This section of the South West Coast Path is the perfect mix of history, wildlife, and spectacular coastal views, offering a rewarding and unforgettable hike.
5. Pendeen to Sennen – Cornwall’s Mining Past and the Wild Atlantic Edge
This rugged section of the South West Coast Path is backdropped by some of the most storied landscapes in Cornish culture. As you walk, the ancient quoits and stone circles of the Pendeen moors rise in the background, silent sentinels of Cornwall’s deep past. This land feels old, wild, and untamed, steeped in myth and history. Walking along the very edge of Cornwall’s granite finger as it juts into the Atlantic, you can almost feel the soul of ancient Cornwall in the ground beneath your feet. is a journey through Cornwall’s tin mining heritage and some of its most exposed, dramatic coastline. The trail from Pendeen to Sennen is a test of endurance but offers incredible sea views, historic engine houses, and some of the most atmospheric landscapes in the county.
Starting at Pendeen Watch, the towering lighthouse stands as a sentinel over one of Cornwall’s most treacherous stretches of coastline. The path quickly winds through the remnants of Geevor and Levant Mines, two of Cornwall’s most historically significant tin mines. Geevor, now a museum and heritage site, offers a glimpse into the life of a Cornish miner, while Levant Mine—famous for its still-working beam engine—was the site of the tragic 1919 man-engine disaster, where 31 miners lost their lives when a lift system failed. Today, the site is managed by the National Trust, and visitors can explore some of the old workings (really well worth doing by the way). These mines were part of the beating heart of Cornwall’s mining industry, which once powered the world., where rusting engine houses stand as monuments to Cornwall’s mining past.
Further along the path, the coastline becomes increasingly wild, and the Crowns Engine Houses at Botallack stand as one of the most breathtaking sights along the South West Coast Path. Perched precariously on the very edge of the cliffs, these historic mining structures look almost surreal, especially when Atlantic waves explode against the rocks below. The site was made famous in the popular imagination by its appearance in Poldark, but its real history is even more dramatic—miners once dug deep under the seabed here, working in perilous conditions beneath the waves. with steep cliffs and crashing waves below.
Continuing towards Sennen, the path passes Cape Cornwall, a striking headland once thought to be the most westerly point of mainland Britain. Cape Cornwall is one of only two cape headlands in the UK, and it marks the meeting point of the Atlantic Ocean and the Celtic Sea. This powerful place, with its lone chimney marking the site of an old mine, is often overlooked in favour of Land’s End, but for many locals, it is the true heart of Cornwall’s rugged west., and on a clear day, you may even spot dolphins or basking sharks offshore. Just before you reach Sennen, you pass Gwenver Beach, a wild and often quieter alternative to its more famous neighbour. Named after the legendary Cornish princess Gwenaver of Arthurian fame, this stretch of golden sand is a favourite among surfers thanks to its powerful waves and remote feel.
The final stretch into Sennen Cove is a dramatic one. The vanguard to Land’s End, this picturesque fishing village feels like it sits at the very edge of the world. On stormy days, waves can crash over the headland and send spray into the village, a reminder of just how exposed this coast is. The Sennen Lifeboat Station stands as a testament to the courage of those who brave the sea, a vital service for mariners navigating one of the most treacherous stretches of water around Britain.
This is the very, very wild west of Cornwall—moody, raw, and untamed. I love walking here because it feels like stepping back in time, where the landscape and the elements still rule, and the stories of Cornwall’s past whisper on the wind. is one of the most rewarding on the South West Coast Path, where golden sands and rolling waves welcome weary hikers, marking the perfect end to a stunning walk.
6. Sennen to Lamorna – The Wild Heart of West Cornwall
This stretch of the South West Coast Path is nothing short of spectacular. From the raw, elemental beauty of Sennen Cove to the ancient and secluded cove of Lamorna, this walk takes you through some of the wildest, most untamed scenery in Cornwall. You’ll traverse towering cliffs, pass through hidden coves, and walk along paths that have been trodden for centuries by smugglers, fishermen, and miners alike.
Starting from Sennen Cove, the trail heads towards Land’s End, Britain’s most westerly point. Though Land’s End itself has become a well-known tourist attraction, the coastal path that skirts around it remains breathtaking. Here, the granite cliffs plunge dramatically into the Atlantic, creating an endless horizon where you might spot basking sharks, dolphins, and even the occasional minke whale during the right season.
This coastline has seen its fair share of shipwrecks, and just offshore lie the Longships Lighthouse and the treacherous Wolf Rock, both built to warn sailors of the perilous waters. The waves here crash relentlessly against the rocks, especially during winter storms, sending spray high into the air. It’s easy to see why this landscape has captivated visitors and locals alike for centuries—it feels like you’re standing at the very edge of the world.
Continuing along the coast, the path winds toward Porthcurno, home to some of Cornwall’s most breathtaking beaches. Just beyond Porthcurno lies Pedn Vounder, an almost otherworldly stretch of sand known for its Caribbean-like turquoise waters and dramatic rock formations. This secluded cove is tidal, meaning that at high tide it’s almost completely submerged, adding to its mystique. The steep descent keeps the crowds away, making it a hidden paradise for those willing to brave the scramble down., famous for its striking white sand beach and turquoise waters. While it may look like an exotic paradise, Porthcurno has an important place in global communications history—it was the site of the first international submarine telegraph cables, connecting Britain to the rest of the world in the 19th century. Today, the Telegraph Museum offers a fascinating insight into this vital part of Cornwall’s past.
Above Porthcurno sits the Minack Theatre, one of Cornwall’s most famous landmarks. Nearby, towering above the coastline, is the Logan Rock, a massive 80-ton granite boulder that was once perfectly balanced on the cliffs. According to legend, a group of sailors from the Royal Navy dislodged it in the 19th century, only to be forced to put it back after public outrage. The rock is a fascinating geological feature and an incredible viewpoint over the Atlantic., one of Cornwall’s most famous landmarks. This spectacular open-air theatre was carved into the cliffs by hand in the 1930s, and today it hosts performances with the vast Atlantic as its backdrop. If you have time, it’s well worth a visit—watching a play here as the sun sets is an experience like no other.
Leaving Porthcurno, the path takes you through Penberth Cove, a picturesque, unspoiled fishing village where the traditional Cornish fishing fleet still operates. This tucked-away cove feels frozen in time, with its granite slipway and fishing gear hinting at a way of life that has changed little in centuries. This part of Cornwall feels particularly special—untouched, rugged, and deeply connected to its past.
Finally, the trail winds into Lamorna Cove, a secluded inlet surrounded by steep, wooded cliffs. Lamorna is famous for its connection to the Lamorna artists’ colony, which flourished in the early 20th century and included well-known artists like Laura Knight and Alfred Munnings. The cove itself is a peaceful, hidden gem, the perfect place to reflect after a long and exhilarating coastal walk.
This section of the South West Coast Path is one of my absolute favourites. It’s wild, remote, and full of history, with landscapes that feel like they belong to another world. If you’re looking for a walk that truly captures the raw, untamed essence of Cornwall, this is the one to do.
7. St Mawes to Portloe – The Dreamlike Serenity of the Roseland Peninsula
This section of the South West Coast Path is one of the most serene and idyllic stretches of coastline in Cornwall. Walking from St Mawes to Portloe, you pass through hidden coves, rolling farmland, and some of the quietest, most untouched landscapes on the entire trail. This walk always reminds me how vastly different Cornwall can feel compared to the wild, raw edges of Pendeen or the towering cliffs of Crackington Haven. The walking here is dreamy, peaceful, and steeped in history, making it one of my favourite sections of the path.
To start this route, you’ll first need to take the St Mawes Ferry from Falmouth, a short but beautiful boat ride across Carrick Roads. As you leave the harbour, you’re flanked by the twin castles of Pendennis and St Mawes, both built by Henry VIII in the 16th century to defend against potential invasion. While Pendennis is built for brute strength, St Mawes is more elegant, designed with intricate gun emplacements to protect the river mouth. Seeing them from the water is a reminder of how Cornwall has always been a strategically vital part of the British coastline.
Landing at St Mawes, you traverse the headland to reach St Anthony Head, one of the most stunning parts on the entire coast path. The lighthouse below stands guard over the mouth of the Fal Estuary, with breathtaking views across to Falmouth and out into the open sea. This part of the walk always puts me in mind of the California coastline, with its rolling cliffs, hidden coves, and deep blue waters stretching as far as the eye can see.
From here, the trail winds through some of the most peaceful and untouched coves in Cornwall. These small inlets—often empty except for a few seabirds—offer a glimpse of what Cornwall might have looked like centuries ago, untouched by tourism. The sheltered waters are a haven for marine life, and I often spot seals lounging on the rocks, cormorants drying their wings, and even the occasional pod of dolphins breaking the surface in the distance.
Walking this stretch of the Roseland Peninsula, I’m always struck by how different it feels from the more rugged and exposed parts of Cornwall. The path meanders gently, hugging the cliffside, passing through meadows filled with wildflowers in spring and summer. It’s a world away from the dramatic cliffs of the north coast—here, the coastline feels softer, warmer, and almost Mediterranean in places.
Every now and then, the landscape opens up to reveal traditional Cornish farmland, where small fields bordered by hedgerows slope gently down toward the sea. It’s a landscape that has changed little over the centuries, and the sense of timelessness here is almost overwhelming.
After miles of remote beauty, the path eventually winds into Portloe, one of Cornwall’s most picturesque and unspoiled fishing villages. Tucked into a steep valley, its whitewashed cottages and working fishing boats make it feel like something from another era. Unlike many other harbours in Cornwall, Portloe has resisted the pull of mass tourism, remaining a working fishing port where small boats still bring in their daily catches of lobster and crab.
Portloe was once notorious for smuggling, and with its sheltered cove and hidden approach, it’s easy to see why. Stories of secret landings and hidden barrels of brandy still linger in the village’s history. Today, it’s one of the best places to simply sit, take in the view, and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just walked.
This stretch of the South West Coast Path is special. It’s quiet, peaceful, and reflective, offering a perfect counterpoint to the wilder and more dramatic sections elsewhere in Cornwall. Walking here, I always feel a deep connection to the land and the sea, as if I’m stepping through a landscape that has remained unchanged for centuries. If you’re looking for a truly idyllic and serene coastal walk, this is one you won’t want to miss.
Conclusion – The South West Coast Path: Cornwall’s True Heartbeat
There’s a reason I keep coming back to the South West Coast Path. It’s more than just a scenic trail—it’s the best way to truly know Cornwall. Every step takes you through a landscape shaped by the sea, a land of rugged cliffs, golden beaches, and rolling countryside. But more than that, it takes you through Cornwall’s soul—a place where the elements have shaped not just the land, but the people who call it home.
Walking the coast path isn’t just about ticking off famous sights like Tintagel Castle, Land’s End, or the Minack Theatre. It’s about the quiet moments—stumbling across a hidden cove, watching seabirds ride the wind over the cliffs, or feeling the history seep up through the ground beneath your feet. It’s about standing at the edge of a headland, looking out over the Atlantic, and feeling like you’re at the edge of the world.
Cornwall is a place defined by the sea. With ocean on three sides, you can’t live here—let alone visit—without it becoming part of you. The cliffs, the coves, the harbours, the history—it all comes back to the water. And that’s why hiking the coast path is the best way to experience the Duchy. Whether you take on a single breathtaking stretch or plan to walk the whole thing, you’ll leave with a deeper connection to the land, the sea, and the Cornish way of life.
Planning a Walking Holiday in Cornwall?
If you’re visiting and want to explore some of these incredible routes, Trewena Cottages is the perfect base. We’re lucky to have some of Cornwall’s best coastal walks right on our doorstep, and I’m always happy to recommend routes to suit your plans—whether you’re after a challenging all-day trek or a gentle evening stroll to a hidden cove.
So, if you’re looking for a real Cornish adventure, lace up your boots, pack a pasty, and hit the trail. I promise—you won’t regret it.
