Discover the Best Walks in Cornwall – Perfect Trails Near Our Holiday Cottages
With hundreds of miles of coastline to explore, Cornwall is a top destination for walking enthusiasts. However, scratch below the surface and this southwest region has much more than just the South West Coast Path to offer. From secret creeks to ancient woodland, prehistoric ruins to fisherman's coves, there are an abundance of fantastic places to explore whilst enjoying Cornish walks.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a walking holiday in Cornwall, or simply get a taste of Cornwall’s walking trails, The Cornish Place is perfectly positioned to give you access to the whole county. Located in the centre of Cornwall, our farm is a short drive away from both the North Coast and the South Coast. Staying at our holiday cottages in Cornwall also gives you access to some of our favourite trails in the area. Keep on reading to discover the best walks in Cornwall.
Wildlife
Cornwall's natural beauty is incredibly diverse, making it a perfect destination for walkers seeking scenic and varied landscapes. Whether you’re exploring the dramatic coastline, the serene woodlands, or the mystical moorlands, you’ll be immersed in nature's splendour. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you make your way along the trails. Birds, deer, sea creatures, otters, ponies and livestock can be seen throughout the year.
When walking it’s a good idea to be mindful of wildlife and to remember these nature-filled places are where they call home. We try to follow the rule of leaving a place the same, if not better, than we find it and ensure we take everything we bring with us (especially rubbish) away.
What to take with you on Cornwall walking trails
Your kit list for a day out in Cornwall depends on the weather. It’s always a good idea to wear a good pair of shoes or walking boots, to protect feet and ankles on more rugged terrain. We also recommend taking a swimming costume with you, depending on which route you take. There are plenty of fantastic places to stop for a refreshing ocean, river or quarry dip. Combining a swim and a walk is one of our favourite things to do to make the most of living in this magical place. On cooler or wetter days, take a towel and waterproofs with you too. You could also take a picnic for a scenic lunch spent al fresco.
Our favourite Cornish walks
Including coastal, farm, woodland and river trails, these are the best walks in Cornwall, near The Cornish Place.
1. Circular walk from Grebe to Maenporth
Beautiful Cornish beach at Grebe
Distance: 5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
This circular walk from Maenporth to Grebe and back offers a delightful mix of coastal and inland scenery, making it a must-do for nature lovers visiting Cornwall.
Start your walk at Maenporth Beach, before heading west along the South West Coast Path. Enjoy plenty of shade amongst the trees, whilst enjoying stunning coastal views.
Continue past Rosemullion Head and on towards Grebe, keeping an eye out for pretty pink sea thrift flowers in the summer. The path is well-marked and easy to follow, with fantastic views of Falmouth Bay.
Take a break at Grebe Beach, a secluded cove with a pebbly shore. From here, take the inland route back to Maenporth, through beautiful woods and rolling fields.
Where to park: Maenporth Beach car park (TR11 5HN) charges £3 cash to leave your car there all day. Arrive early in the summer, to avoid losing out on a space.
Where to eat: Take a packed lunch or grab some sandwiches from Maenporth Beach café.
2. Flushing to Mylor and back
Cornish walking trail from Flushing to Mylor
Distance: 4 miles
Difficulty: Easy
This scenic route takes you along the picturesque Fal Estuary, offering coastal views towards Falmouth. This trail is relatively flat and easy, making it accessible for most walkers.
Begin your walk in the quaint village of Flushing, known for its maritime history and charming narrow streets lined with pastel-coloured cottages. From here, head west along the well-marked footpath towards Mylor.
The path hugs the coastline, offering stunning views of the estuary and passing through a mixture of woodland and open fields. Enjoy looking at the grand houses and at the huge variety of sailing boats making their way lazily up and down the river.
The mid-point is Mylor Harbour, a bustling marina with a café. Stop here for food and refreshments before continuing inland to complete the route, or head straight back the way you came.
You can also go for a dip at Flushing Beach which is dog-friendly year-round.
Where to park: Park for free on Trefusis Road in Flushing (TR11 5UB).
Where to eat: Our favourite stop-off point is for breakfast at Harbour House Flushing.
For full details on the circular route, please click here.
3. Godrevy Point and the Knavocks
Godrevy Lighthouse from the South West coast path.
Distance: 3.3 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
This walk is a breathtaking coastal route offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, rugged cliffs, iconic landmarks and even a chance at spotting seals.
From the car park, follow the well-marked path towards Godrevy Lighthouse – one of the most photographed landmarks in Cornwall. Enjoy spectacular views of the rocky coastline and watch the rolling waves of the Atlantic.
Continue along the path to Mutton Cove, a short distance from the lighthouse. This secluded cove is renowned for its resident seal colony, which can be viewed from above. Remember to keep your distance and avoid disturbing them.
Follow the path further, to Navax Point, which is fantastic for watching seabirds. From here, head back the way you came, taking the left-hand side shortcut back to the car park.
Where to park: There is a National Trust car park at Godrevy (TR27 5ED).
Where to eat: The Rockpool (next to the car park) is dog-friendly and serves a wide range of food in a relaxed setting.
You can find more details on the route here.
4. Walk from Loe Pool to Dollar Cove and back
Loe Bar on a Cornish Walking Holiday
Distance: 5.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
This walk is a picturesque route that showcases some of Cornwall's most beautiful natural landscapes, including a freshwater lake, woodlands, and a secluded beach.
From the car park, head towards Loe Pool, Cornwall's largest natural freshwater lake. Keep going until you reach Loe Bar, a natural barrier of sand and shingle which separates the freshwater pool from the sea.
From Loe Bar, follow the South West Coast Path westward towards Dollar Cove. The beach is perfect for a rest stop, to go rock pooling or for a picnic.
For your return journey, you can take the inland path back to the Chyvarloe car park. This route takes you through more pastoral landscapes and woodland areas, providing a change of scenery from the coastal path.
Where to park: Chyvarloe National Trust car park (TR12 7PY).
Where to eat: Pop into the The Halzephron Inn on the walk back for pub grub or a drink in one of the most famous and historical pubs in Cornwall.
Click here for more information on the route.
5. Circular walk around Coombe and Old Kea
The Best Cornish Walk around Coombe and Old Kea
Distance: 4.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
This circular walk offers a scenic journey through pretty villages, historic church ruins, and serene riverside paths. Much of it falls within Tregothnan Estate, home to the first British tea plantation.
From Coombe, follow the footpath towards Old Kea. The fairly flat route winds along the edge of the Truro River, offering stunning river views and a peaceful walking experience.
At Old Kea, visit the historic Old Kea Church, now in ruins, which dates back to the thirteenth century. Next, continue through rolling countryside to Cowlands Creek, which is a tranquil and secluded area.
Head back towards Coombe through more beautiful countryside to complete the route.
Where to park: Free parking on the roadside at Coombe (TR3 6AR).
Where to eat: The Punchbowl and Ladle is a short drive away from the start and end point and is a classic pub serving good food.
iWalk Cornwall has full details of the walk here.
6. The Cornish Place Wildlife Trail
The Cornish Place Walking Trail
If you’re looking for a Cornish walk even closer to The Cornish Place, our on-site wildlife trail is perfect for entertaining children and adults alike. Providing up to an hour’s worth of entertainment, simply scan our QR codes to find more about native plants, trees, birds and insect species. Ask us more about it when you arrive at our holiday cottages in Cornwall. It’s a fun activity for the whole family right on our doorstep.
We hope you enjoyed our blog about the best walks in Cornwall and that you are inspired to get outdoors and see the best of our beautiful county. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, our holiday cottages in Cornwall provide the perfect launchpad for exploration.Visit our website to learn more and to see pictures ofour stunning accommodation options.