Places to visit on Cornwall’s South West Coastal Path

Start your South West Coast Path itinerary at St Ives, a town adored by artists around the world for its unique light. Spend time exploring its iconic harbour; pop into galleries owned by local artists; soak up that magical golden light for yourself on not one but five beaches and visit its own Tate Gallery. Check out our dedicated itinerary for a more In-depth guide to pretty-as-a-picture Cornish town.

Now it’s time to start walking and day one’s route is a rugged 7.5-mile walk along the South West Coast Path from St Ives to Zennor, from where you can catch a bus back to St Ives. For those wanting a fuller walking holiday experience, you could start in Zennor and take the challenging five-mile circular walk.

Let’s face it, this whole walk is full of spectacular views but pause at Clodgy Point with its rugged outlook and small beach for a surprise. Further along the South West Coast Path, you’ll pass the Merry Harvesters Stone Circle. Take time to stop and look out at Seal Island, home to a colony of Atlantic grey seals.

Once home to author D.H. Lawrence, you’ll come to the beautiful village of Zennor, just inland off the South West Coast Path. Have a well-earned, slap-up meal at The Gurnard’s Head. This Michelin-guide-recommended pub is hard to miss with its cheery yellow facade. Golden hues are found inside too, with an open fire roaring in the colder months. Get cosy indoors or head out to the garden during summer and refuel with the likes of mussels, monkfish, burrata and baba ganoush.

Finally, head back to St Ives. Get some well-earned rest and check in to Tregenna Castle Resort, with its pools, spa and tennis courts. It’s a welcome respite for anyone on a walking holiday.

Day two takes us around the coast to one of the best walks in Cornwall and the county’s most famous historic site - across the causeway to St Michael’s Mount. Check the tides before you cross the causeway, then spend time exploring the castle and village.

Before you head back, be sure to seek out the 19th century Garden Terraces, clinging to the side of the island, with the Victorian Seagull Seat, which is the perfect place to sit and plot your next ramble along the South West Coast Path.

Back on the mainland, explore the town of Marazion, opposite St Michael’s Mount. Grab lunch at one of its cafes, such as the popular Copper Spoon. Make sure you leave room for dessert as their mini bread and butter puddings are hard to resist.

Unwind in an award-winning hotel that’s just a pebble skim from the beach. Watch the sunset over St Michaels’ Mount from your room and soothe achy feet in the bath before heading into the comfy lounge for pre-dinner cocktail.

Day three is all about St Anthony on the Roseland Peninsula and another of the best walks in Cornwall, a circular 6-mile walk from the ferry landing at Place. This fabulous walk, with spectacular sea views, is good all-year-round, but in autumn you can see large flocks of sea birds.

Half-way along the coastal path, stop at the tip of the peninsula and the National Trust property, St Anthony Head, with its 19th century St Anthony Battery and St Anthony lighthouse.

Another pit-stop in paradise, is at tranquil Towan Beach, further along the South West Coast Path, which is a sand and shingle stretch, perfect for a picnic or quick paddle. Or if you follow the path inland, you’ll come to Café Thirstea where you can enjoy some home-cooking.

After the walk has ended, drive the short distance to another beautiful stretch of the South West Coast Path at St Mawes. Visit the 16th century St Mawes Castle, an English Heritage Tudor Castle, built for Henry VIII, with sweeping views of the coast. Those with time will also enjoy walking a section of the coast here.

As you come to the end of the three-day South West Coast Path itinerary, celebrate in style at The Idle Rocks, the luxury hotel and restaurant on the waterside in St Mawes. And if you’re tempted to stay in one of its boutique rooms, who could blame you?