Ever since Raynor Winn’s The Salt Path hit the shelves (and now the silver screen), we’ve noticed more and more walkers, nature-lovers and soul-searchers heading west in search of something… real. And honestly, we get it. That story of gaining a new sense of freedom, resilience and connection to nature? It hit home for us.
It’s no secret we’re big fans of the South West Coast Path. I, Rich (the resident hiker-in-chief here at Trewena) have walked all over Asia, from the foothills of the Himalaya to the forests of Taiwan, but Cornwall is still my favourite place to lace up my boots. The drama of the cliffs, the salty air, the quiet moments in little coves – there’s nothing quite like it. And it’s a big reason why we made Trewena our home. We wanted to build a place that made it easier for others to experience this wild beauty too.
Salt Path Dreaming? Trewena Makes It Doable
You don’t have to be roughing it in bivvy bags to walk the path. At Trewena, we offer the best of both worlds: access to some of the most stunning coast path stretches in Cornwall, and a cosy, fully-equipped cottage to come home to.
We’re just four miles from Falmouth, so if you fancy a ferry ride and a cliffside ramble, you can hop over to St Mawes and pick up the Roseland stretch. Or head down to Helford Passage – only a short drive away – and walk the riverside path past Frenchman’s Creek. Want something wilder? The Lizard and Penwith are within an hour’s drive, and parts of the North Coast like Porthtowan, St Agnes, Port Isaac and even Crackington Haven are totally doable in a day.
Our location makes it ridiculously easy to mix and match your Cornish coast path adventures. And that’s not just us saying it. Guests regularly tell us that Trewena is the best base they’ve had for exploring different parts of the county. We’re tucked away enough for peace and quiet, but brilliantly connected to all the main link roads, which makes nipping out to explore the north, south or west coasts easy as anything.
You can walk a section, jump on a bus back. Or, if you’ve got two cars, leave one at the end of your route and loop back to Trewena without a fuss. With a bit of planning (which we’re happy to help with), the entire coast becomes accessible.
A Place to Rest, Reflect and Recharge
Let’s be honest – walking the South West Coast Path can be tough on the legs. So when you come back, you want somewhere that feels like a hug. Our cottages are warm, quiet, and stocked with everything you need to put your feet up: hot showers, snuggly blankets, a fire to curl up beside, and a comfy bed to sink into. We even include local walking maps and nature guides, and Rich is always happy to suggest a route (and a good pub for lunch).
We also get it when you don’t want to do anything. Maybe you just want to watch the sun go down over the trees from the meadow with a cup of tea, or lie in the garden with a good book and a pair of binoculars. That’s walking too, in a way.
Our Favourite Sections? We Wrote the Guide
We were so taken with how many of our guests were walking sections of the coast path that we created a local’s guide to our favourite bits – and what makes them special. From the sea-smacked cliffs of Rinsey to the golden calm of Nare Head, we’ve mapped out the best places to take in the views, spot wildlife, and get a proper taste of Cornwall’s coastal magic. You can find it on our website, or just ask and we’ll happily print you a copy when you check in.
The guide also includes tips on circular walks, good spots for a cream tea or a pint along the way, and some quieter, less-trodden paths that still give you that coast path feel without the crowds.
Cornwall as a Place of Renewal
There’s something about walking beside the sea that clears the cobwebs. And that’s not just poetic waffle. It’s a feeling we know firsthand. Part of the reason we left city life behind and moved to Cornwall was the sense that we needed something different – a slower pace, a deeper connection to nature, and a fresh start. Trewena has become that space for us, and we’re proud to share it with our guests.
In many ways, the story of The Salt Path resonates with us. Not because we faced the same kind of loss, but because moving back to Cornwall gave us something new. A different rhythm. A daily reminder of what matters. We found healing here, in the wind and the waves, the birdsong in the morning, and the sense of making something meaningful with our own hands.
For many of our guests, the South West Coast Path isn’t just a walk – it’s a kind of reset. And we love being part of that journey, even if it’s just for a few days.
More Than Just Walking: Make a Holiday of It
Staying at Trewena means you’re not limited to just coast path adventures. Within easy reach you’ve got kayaking on the Helford River, garden-hopping between Trebah and Glendurgan, or exploring the creative scene in Falmouth. And if you do want to take a break from walking, there’s plenty of beaches, boat trips, and cafes to while away the hours.
And we’re always happy to tailor suggestions. Whether you want a day off with sea swims and ice cream, or a challenge that ends with a clifftop picnic, just ask.
Stay with Us
Whether you’re planning to walk for days or just want to sample a few scenic stretches, Trewena is ready to welcome you. Pack your boots, bring your curiosity, and let Cornwall work its quiet magic.
We know how special this part of the world is. That’s why we built our home here. That’s why we built Trewena. And that’s why we think it might just be the perfect place for your own Salt Path-inspired adventure.
Ready to walk the walk? Book your stay with us at Trewena Cottages – and let your South West Coast Path journey begin.
Want our full guide to the best South West Coast Path walks near Falmouth? Check out our Local’s Guide to the Coast Path or pop us a message when booking and we’ll make sure you have everything you need.
