Category: Walking

Walk through – Polzeath Beach to The Rumps

Home to one of the world’s most renowned surf destinations, we walk you from Polzeath beach to The Rumps.

Popular with walkers, surfers and families galore, Polzeath is a great location for a day at the beach or a walk around some of the South West Coast Path’s most spectacular views.

Starting your journey at Polzeath, there is the option to park your car in the field at the top of the hill for £5 for a full day, or down on the beach itself. Enjoy a stroll across the sandy beach, over the stream running through the middle and up the steps on the right hand side to the path.

Want to stay in a luxury holiday house with a view of the sea? Check out our cottages with sea views.

Walk along the South West Coast Path inline with the right-hand side of the beach (when looking at the sea) where you can stop off to watch sun seekers, local surfers and children running along the wide stretch of golden sand.

Look out for this sign as the coast path bends and begin to walk towards Port Quin, past the rolling waves.

Look out for this second sign just a little further along, which will lead you down a small track towards Pentire Point and onto The Rumps (get excited for this and don’t forget your camera).

As you get to the bottom of the path, walk over the bridge between the reeds and look left…

The Rumps

You’re welcome! A whole other beach that you didn’t know about. Much quieter than the main beach around the corner and perfect for pitching up for the afternoon with a picnic or evening BBQ.

Follow the path up the hill, where there are a couple of bench stops on your way to Pentire Point. Don’t forget your water.

This view of the bay makes that steep hill worth while. Perch yourself on the bench as you watch the waves roll in over the rocks.

On our walk we bumped into many four-legged friends, showing that this is a dog-friendly coastpath to be enjoyed by all. Please keep dogs on leads as there are deep cliff drops throughout.

As you leave Polzeath beach and the sound of families and cars, follow the path and make your way to Pentire Point, boasting jaw-dropping views. If you look to the south and west you’ll see the expanse of Padstow Bay and Trevose Head with its lighthouse.

Fancy staying in Padstow? Check out our luxury holiday lets in Padstow.

Do you have little ones in tow? They’re in for a treat when you get to the large rockpools, filled with marine life in all shapes and sizes.

You’ll spot several gates on your walk, don’t forget to close these behind you as there are cattle in the fields behind the coastpath.

Once you get over one last hill, you’ve made it to ‘The Rumps’. This part of the coast was formed from a band of hard basaltic rock which was emplaced by undersea volcanic activity when this whole area lay on the bed of an ancient ocean. Sounds cool right?

We loved this little hole in the wall, we aren’t quite sure what it is for, but if you want to peak through, it can be found directly opposite The Rumps on your path.

Look out for several outcrops of pillow lava between The Rumps and Pentire Point on your journey back. These are visible from the coastpath and are created by the extrusion of lava under water. This coastal walk really does have it all.

One final look at the beautiful rock formations and The Rumps before you head back for some well deserved food and cocktails at the Waterfront Terrace, situated behind Polzeath beach. If you have more time, then The Rumps is accessible by foot if you wanted to get a little closer.

We headed to the Waterfront Terrace which boasts its very own herb garden surrounding its upper level dining area with picture perfect views over Polzeath beach. The herbs are especially grown for their unique and very popular cocktails and Cornish food menu.

Join us on a picturesque walk from Rock to Polzeath in North Cornwall, where stunning coastal views and tranquil landscapes await your discovery.

It would be rude not to visit this restaurant without sampling a cocktail or two. This is ‘The Cornish Lady’ made up of Cornish Tarquins Gin, house-made Cornish Caccis, fresh sour mix with a side of lavender (freshly picked of course).

We also tasted the classic Mojito, with freshly picked mint, white rum, soda and sugar. Mmm are we tempting you yet?

If you choose to dine inside the Waterfront Terrace, expect stunning views of the beach that look alot like this. The perfect spot to unwind and watch the outdoor world pass you by.

If you love your seafood then you’re in for a treat. We highly recommend the 1/2 pint of shelled prawns as a starter, arriving with garlic mayo and freshly made bread.

We couldn’t decide which looked more delicious…the classic cod fish and chips with a side of mushy peas and tartar sauce or the fresh open crab sandwich with a side salad and squeeze of lemon. Don’t worry, our mouths are watering again too.

Why stop at two courses when your dessert is waiting for you back on the beach? We all get excited at the sight of a Kelly Whip van and a double scoop of Cornish Kelly’s ice-cream with a flake on top.

View all our self-catering properties in Polzeath.

Beach Retreats set the record for most visited Cornish beaches in one day

On 21st June 2018 (the Summer Solstice) we proudly set the record of visiting the most Cornish beaches in one day. Visiting 47 beaches across the county, we started at sunrise at 5am in Cawsand and ended just in time for a beautiful sunset at 9.30pm in Bude. Our activity marks the beginning of our new partnership with the South West Coast Path Association, with donations being taken to support our record attempt.

Our partnership with South West Coast Path Association

With more than 400 miles of Cornish coastline and over 300 beaches in Cornwall, we broke past our target of visiting a minimum of 40 Cornish beaches to raise money for the Path’s “40for40” campaign. The campaign is a bid to raise £40,000 by the end of October 2018 to celebrate its 40-year anniversary. As part of the partnership, we sponsored the Association with £2,500 and have challenged the public to match this through donations, setting a fundraising target of £2,500.

Why we love the South West Coast Path

With 161 holiday properties located all along the coast, we want to do our bit to support the charity, which sees nearly nine million visitors enjoy the Path and the many beautiful beaches it overlooks each year. We know the Coast Path and the beautiful Cornish beaches are cherished by our guests and residents of Cornwall, so not only do we want to celebrate the amazing beaches and the breathtaking walks right on our properties’ doorsteps – we also want to ensure we’re raising awareness and supporting the maintenance of these areas, so they can continue to be enjoyed for many, many more years to come.

Visiting with a large group? Discover our large holiday homes perfect for big families or friend groups.

Our 47 beaches

Below are all the beaches we visited on 21 June.

1 Cawsand

5:00am

As the saying goes, the early bird catches the worm. Beautiful lighting at Cawsand to start the day off. Cawsand is located on the Rame Peninsula next to its neighbouring villages Kingsand. The sheltered bay looks out of Plymouth Sound and has lots of rockpools perfect for young families.

2 Whitsand Bay

5:25am

Home to many of our coastal cabins, Whitsand offers three miles of golden sand backed by high cliffs and vegitation. Dogs are welcome here all year round due to the beache never being too crowded. Go rockpooling, enjoy a morning job and build sandcastles.

 

3 Looe

5:55am

Lovely Looe is just a 30 minute drive from our Whitsand Bay properties and is a great spot for families wanting to explore. Many come here for a spot of crabbing, to walk the Banjo Pier or for the annual Looe Music Festival where you’ll be spoilt with great music, food and Cornish ales.

4 Charlestown

6.45am

Used for many filming locations including the latest series off the BBC One Poldark, Charlestown is an example of a late Georgian working port, built in 1791. Walk the harbour wall, enjoy one of its fantastic eateries or head to beach and watch the fishing boats come and go.

Check our Charlestown holiday properties.

5 Porthpean

6:55am

With soft white sand and clear waters, its no surprise this is a family famourite. The cliffs to the east of the beach are used nesting birds, great for those that want to see some wildlife during there stay. Its shallow waters make this a great spot for swimming in the warmer months.

 

6 Pentewan

7:15am

Fancy a bit of sea kayaking? This beach is perfect for just that. Bring your own or hire a kayak from Pentewan Watersports and enjoy a gentle trip along the water. The beach is half a mile long and is south east facing, receiving plenty of sunshine throughout the year. There’s even free parking.

7 Portmelon

7:25am

Accessible from Gorran Haven or Mevagissey via the South West Coast Path, this sand and shingle beach stays relatively quiet throughout the summer months. At high tide the beach is completely covered, leaving lots of fantastic rockpools just waiting to be explore. Parking is limited.

8 Gorran Haven

7:40am

Two miles south of Mevagissey, Gorran Haven beach sits in a pretty fishing village and is popular with families and kayakers. It has a beach car park for your Cornish ice cream and pasty fix, as well as parking for up to 500 cars just 400 metres away. Dog friendly all year round, please keep on leads.

 

9 Porthluney

7:50am

Privately owned, this golden sanded beach boasts a striking backdrop with the magical Caerhays Castle and Gardens located right behind it. Its visitors often enjoy a morning exploring the castle before heading to the beach for a Cornish picnic and an afternoon dip. Dogs welcome all year round.

10 Gyllyngvase

9:05am

We absolutely love this beach in Falmouth, located just 200 metres from five of our luxury apartments.  It’s also home to the Gylly Beach Cafe, serving delicious local produce for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You’ll spot many giving stand up paddle boarding a go, due to its calm and shallow waters.

11 Swanpool

9:30am

Described as a ‘delightful swimming cove’ by some, Swanpool beach is located on the outskirts of Falmouth with perfect water conditions for SUP, Kayaking and wild swimming. Enjoy a spot of lunch in the cafe, or why not have a round of crazy golf, fun for all ages.

 

12 Maenporth

9:40am

Perfectly located near a wooded valley, a few miles west of Falmouth, Maenporth’s beautiful scenery and shallow waters make it a perfect beach for all to enjoy, with a mixture of sandy shores and rock pools. Look out for the Ben Asdale, a famouth shipwreck only visible at low tide.

13 Kennack

10:40am

With its large expanse of sand, shallow stream and plenty of rockpools, Kennack Sands is the perfect spot for those with little ones in tow. Build a sandcastle as the tide goes out, discover new sealife creatures or walk the south west coast path for awe-inspiring views.

14 Cadgwith

10:50am

With its small fleet of fishing boats, the beach here is still very much the centre of it all when visiting Cadgwith village. Walk south along the coast path and you’ll reach the Devil’s Frying Pan, a 200 foot deep hole in the cliffs formed many years ago when a cave collapsed. Toilets, cafe and shop nearby.

15 Kynance

11:20am

One of Cornwall’s most photographed locations, Kynance has become one of Cornwall’s most ‘Instagramable’ locations. Owned by the National Trust, its famous for its white sand, turquoise sea and large rock stacks. Make sure you try a Cornish cream tea at kynance Cove Cafe.

16 Porthleven

11:55am

Its long stretch of sand and shingle is three miles long, reaching Loe Bar and Gunwalloe Fishing Cove. Many surfers flock to the right hand side of the harbour wall as its considered one of the best reef breaks in the UK. There is a great choice of resturants nearby including Rick Stein’s Porthleven.

17 Praa Sands

12:20pm

Praa Sands (pronounced pray) is best known for its white sand and powerful waves making it a very busy beach in the summer months. The sand stretches between Hoe Point in the west and Rinsey Head in the east, offering fantastic coastal walks from either side.

18 Mousehole

1:10pm

One of Cornwall’s prettiest fishing villages, Mousehole harbour and its small beach is located just a few miles from Penzance. The beach is known to be very safe for families and is surrounded by a stunning backdrop of yellow lichened fishermen’s cottages, shops and restaurants.

19 Porthcurno

1:35pm

Porthcurno is truely worth a fun filled day out, not just because of its beautiful crystal clear waters and white caribbean looking sand, but because the world famous Minack Theatre is right on its doorstep. Enjoy a bite to eat and catch an afternoon show in the open air theatre.

20 Pedn Vounder

1:40pm

Accessible by climbing down the rocks, Pedn Vounder beach is described as ‘paradise’ and Cornwall’s secret ‘Caribbean’. At low tide, the water is perfectly calm, leaving a ring of sand creating its own second island in the centre of the beach. Also known as a popular nudist beach.

21 Sennen

1:50pm

As you approach the village it’s not long before you spot the huge blue rollers heading towards the shore which makes Sennen Cornwall’s most westerly surf hotspot. Along the seafront you’ll find plenty of cafes, pubs, restaurants and galleries.

Find out more about Sennen in our blog all about the area.

22 Porthmeor

2:50pm

Just one of St Ives’ beautiful beaches, Porthmeor beach is located below the famous Tate St Ives gallery. Porthmeor is also St Ives’ most dramatic beach facing the full force of the Atlantic Ocean and flanked by rugged headlands. This beach wins its Blue Flag status almost annually.

23 St Ives Harbour

3:05pm

Part harbour, part beach, this bay has plenty going on, both in the working harbour and the town behind. At low tide stroll around to neighbouring beaches, or perch yourself near harbour pier at high tide. Bobbing boats, old fishermen’s houses, this is the perfect spot for watching the world go by.

24 Porthgwidden

3:20pm

Known as one of the cleanest beaches in the South West with its Blue Flag status, Porthgwidden benefits from being more sheltered than all the other St Ives beaches. Facilities include pretty beach huts and a splendid cafe overlooking the beach. Please note there is no lifeguard cover here.

25 Carbis Bay

3:35pm

Another award-winning beach near St Ives with a Blue Flag status, this white sand beach is privately owned by Carbis Bay Hotel. The beach rarely has any surf, making it the perfect spot for families with toddlers in tow. Take your camera, it’s surrounded by beautiful sub-tropical plants.

26 Gwithian

3:50pm

Blasted by the breeze off the Atlantic, the magnificent beach at Gwithian Towans is always a colourful scene of windsurfers on the water. The constant swell of the Atlantic Ocean brings in surfers all year round and is a well know breeding spot for colonies of seabirds.

27 Godrevy

4:00pm

Godrevy is one of Cornwall’s most popular sunset spots, with an iconic lighthouse and island creating a stunning backdrop. Located directly next door to Gwithian, it makes up one of Cornwall’s longest stretches of sand at low tide. There is a lovely cafe and plenty of parking nearby.

28 Portreath

4:15pm

Made up of soft golden sand and shingles on the shoreline, Portreath is popular with both families and surfers throughout the year. There are two surf shops and an amusement arcade located on the seafront, as well as a bakery, cafe, tearoom,  parking and toilets.

29 Porthtowan

4:18pm

Boasting a Blue Flag status and located between St Ives and St Agnes, Porthtowan is set within a World Heritage Mining area. Here you’ll find many unused historic engine houses which are perfect for exploring, along with rockpools at low tide for the little ones.

30 Trevaunance Cove

4:38pm

The main beach in St Agnes and dog friendly all year round, this pretty little cove is backed by high cliffs with fantastic amenities including a shop, pub, cafes, parking and toilets. Here you’ll find plenty of caves to discover and a pretty coast path leading you to Trevella, the next cove along.

31 Perranporth

5:10pm

Located on Cornwall’s rugged north coast and making up three miles of beautiful golden sand, this popular beach boasts its very own natural sea pool, great snorkelling, plenty of surf and a bustling town filled with quirky shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants. Don’t forget to buy your ice cream.

32 Holywell Bay

5:30pm

Just three miles from Newquay is Holywell Bay, one of the main filming locations for the BBC One series Poldark. Its Gull rock stacks in the centre of the sea are one of the most photographed rocks in Cornwall. The beach is backed by golden sand dunes creating plenty of fun for the whole family.

33 Crantock

5:55pm

Dog friendly all year round, Crantock beach is best known for its crystal clear waters and shallow stream as the Atlantic Ocean meets the River Gannel. Here you’ll often see kayakers and stand up paddleboarders at high tide. The perfect beach with small children and fury friends.

34 Fistral

6:15pm

World famous because of its pumping surf and annual surf contests, Fistral beach is Newquay’s largest and most popular. It’s recently become a fantastic foodie destination with the likes of Rick Stein Fistral, The Fish and The Stable on its doorstep. The beach is just a short stroll from the town centre.

35 Little Fistral

6:20pm

Lesser known, but adjacent to Fistral beach is a small sandy cove where the locals bathe. With rockpools galore, hidden caves and a coast path walk to a high peak, you’ll be mesmerised by the panoramic views surrounding this beach. Toilets are nearby and there is plenty of parking nearby.

36 Towan

6:30pm

Home to the iconic house on the island, Towan beach is in Newquay’s town centre and is always bustling with plenty of families playing ball, building sandcastles and munching on Cornish pasties. Newquay harbour is next door to the left, with Great Western beach on the right.

37 Great Western

6:40pm

If you like your burgers then this is the spot for you. Head to Slope Restaurant on your way down to the beach and check out their fantastic food and drinks menu. The beach itself is surrounded by cliffs and rocky inlets, set inbetween Towan beach and Tolcarne. Be aware there is no parking here.

38 Lusty Glaze

7:00pm

A beautiful horseshoe shaped bay privately owned with plenty to offer. The restaurant and bar is popular all year round with live music and delicious food and throughout the summer, visitors can enjoy the late night sundowner sessions with great acts from all over the world. There are lots of steps to get down to it.

39 Porth

7:05pm

With many of our stunning self-catering properties located here, this is sure to be one of our favourites. Watch a Cornish sunset, walk the bridge to porth island and splash around in the shallow stream. Amenities nearby include a little tea room, cafe, shop and the Mermaid pub directly on the beach.

40 Watergate Bay

7:10pm

Just three miles from Newquay and a short drive from Mawgan Porth, you’ll find the large golden sanded beach, Watergate Bay. We have 50 beachside properties here giving out guests plenty of choice when finding their perfect holiday home by the sea. Restaurants and cafes nearby.

41 Mawgan Porth

7:20pm

Sheltered by steep cliffs either side, Mawgan Porth beach is 4 miles from Newquay and its hustle and bustle. This is a great family beach with lots of rockpools, caves and even a large stream running down the southern side of the beach. If you love seafood, be sure to check out Catch Seafood Restaurant.

42 Porthcothan

7:40pm

Dog friendly all year round and one of the BBC One Poldark filming locations, its not wonder this beach is a haven for dog lovers and families. At low tide you’ll be treated to plenty of secret coves and inlets, giving you the freedom and space you don’t always get on a Cornish beach.

43 Trevone

7:50pm

Ever seen an 80 foot Cornish blow hole? Trevone near Padstow has just that.Formed by a collapsed sea cave and can be seen on a sloping field above the east side of the beach, many visitors come here for a photograph opportunity. The South West Coast Path leads you to plenty of awe-inspiring views nearby.

44 Rock

8:15pm

Across the estuary from Padstow is the little well known town of Rock. The beach here provides a long expanse of golden sand at low tide, leading round to Brea Hill and the popular Daymer Bay. If you prefer to sit back and relax while enjoying the finer things in life, Rock has a great choice of sophisticated eateries.

45 Polzeath

8:25pm

Polzeath is a haven for surfers and beach lovers alike. There is a sand and shingle beach, situated at the mouth of a river and backed by interesting cliffs. Amenities here are great, including the Waterfront Polzeath restaurant, toilets and a coast path leading you back to Rock, Daymer Bay and the Camel Estuary.

46 Widemouth Bay

9:25pm

Filled with beautiful rock formations at one end and golden sand and shingle at the other, this beach offers something for everyone. Go rockpooling, jump from bed to board and enjoy a surf, or visit one of the cafes dotted around the shoreline. Widemouth Bay is just a short drive from Bude town centre.

47 Crooklets

9:30pm

Last but by no means least is the lovely Crooklets beach. Backed by pretty beach huts, with a coast path leading you directly to the natural Bude Sea Pool, this is a firm favourite for our guests staying in Bude. be sure to stop off at the local cafe for a delicious Cornish ice cream.

Donate to the South West Coast Path

Walk with us from Rock to Polzeath in north Cornwall

Interested in staying in our most luxurious holiday cottages? Check out our luxury coastal cottages.

Rock is located in north Cornwall, directly opposite Padstow with the Camel Estuary flowing in between. Boasting fantastic water conditions, Rock attracts avid watersport enthusiasts throughout the year. On this walk and from the balconies of both our Rock properties you’ll spot people kayaking, SUP safaris, water skiing, wakeboarding, sailing and more. You can even give it a try yourself.

Rock

The Ferry stop is just a few metres away and runs every 20 minutes to Padstow Harbour if you fancy a change of scenery without taking the car. In Padstow you’ll find Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant, Paul Ainsworth’s No6 and Rojano’s in the Square.

Follow the path left or right as you step out the door and you’ll be spoilt with an abundance of sophisticated eateries including No1 Rock Road, Nathan Outlaw’s Mariner’s Rock, The Dining Club and the Blue Tomato directly next door, all with views just like this.

Explore 7 mouth-watering restaurants to try while staying in Rock, each offering delectable dishes and unforgettable dining experiences along the Cornish coast.

To begin the walk, we head straight to the beach 40 metres away (simply cross the road) and turn right, making our way across the golden sands of Rock Beach. The estuary pictured below is now at low tide, leaving shallow crystal clear waters and plenty of spots to bathe and sit back with a good book.

Fancy staying in Rock, discover our Rock holiday properties.

If you want to enjoy this walk at high tide, jump on the coast path located at the bottom of the road, next to the car park.

At low tide, there is plenty of fun to be had, especially for families with little ones in tow. Jump the river, build a sandcastle and enjoy a refreshing wild sea swim. Keep your eyes peeled for not only fish, but one of the UK’s rarest and most protected mammals, the otter, which is often spotted on the Camel Estuary.

Follow our walk up and around the river bend and on a sunny day, it’ll feel like you’ve made it to the Caribbean.

Daymer Bay

A little further on, you’ll reach Daymer Bay. Known as one of the jewels in north Cornwall’s crown, this popular golden beach is backed by dunes giving it a more secluded feeling than its neighbouring beaches Rock and Polzeath. At low tide, as seen below, families often like to search for marine life, jump the rock pools and chase the waves.

As the tide rises, Daymer Bay becomes a haven for paddleboarders, bathers and kayakers. Below you will spot a grassy mound, which is known as Brea Hill. Give this a climb to be awarded with excellent views over the bays.

At the foot of the hill a little way from the beach is St Enodoc Church or Sinking Neddy as it is sometimes referred as. Often only spotted by those that know where to look, this Grade I listed church gives you a beautiful photo stop. You’ll also find here the prestigous St Enodoc’s Golf Course, considered to be 4th in the National Club Golfers Top 100 UK courses.

After a dip in the water and an ice cream, jump onto the South West Coast Path at the far end of the beach and begin to follow it around out towards the ocean, away from the car park.

You’ll be pleasantly surprised by pretty shrubs, hopping bunnies and fantastic panoramic views across Daymer and out over the horizon. This is a lovely location for those who wish to sit back and watch the world go by or enjoy a spot of painting like this talented artist we met on our way.

We are now over half way to our destination – Polzeath.

When we reached Polzeath in just under two hours (with plenty of photo stops and paddles inbetween) we were instantly mesmerised be the flock of surfers, swimmers, paddleboarders and beach goers. This beach has a real buzz to it and a great place for active watersports. There is plenty of parking if you wish to drive and a superb selection of shops, cafes and restaurants.

Our favourite is ‘The Waterfront‘. Using only the best local quality ingredients the extensive menu serves delicious seafood, burgers, sandwiches snacks and more. They even have their very own herb garden, perfectly created for their brilliant cocktail menu. Guests have the option of sitting both inside or outside on the top terrace or decking, both with lovely sea views.

So there you have it, a wonderful walk from Rock to Polzeath. Give it a try and share your holiday snaps with us along the way using #beachretreats on Facebook and Instagram.

Book your Rock holiday with Beach Retreats.

Walk Through Prussia Cove

Coastal walk to Bessy’s Cove Beach.

Situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Prussia Cove is situated on Cornwall’s south coast. Unlike the north, the south coast has many hidden sandy coves, inlets and rockpools to explore and are perfect for those dog-friendly walks.

Our new duplex apartment at Acton Castle offers spectacular views over Prussia Cove and out to Mount’s Bay. Starting from the private gardens of the Castle, head down the steps to join a footpath. Keep left, and on your right, there will be a stile into the open fields below. Wander down through the field, and to your left join the coast path which will take you to Cudden Point, Piskies Cove and Bessy’s Cove beach.

Visiting with a large group? Discover our large holiday homes perfect for big families or friend groups.

Piskies Cove is reputed to be one of the places where John Carter – The King of Prussia – landed his smuggled goods. Prussia Cove is renowned for smuggling activity in the late 18th Century. The coastline is suitably hidden with caves; perfect for stowing stolen treasures.

The coastal walk provides a tranquil escape: calm waters, quiet sandy coves, and uninterrupted views. At low tide, discover hidden coves and wander down to enjoy your own private beach. In the summer, the water is just right for cooling off and splashing in the shallows.

Discover our Porthleven holiday properties. Just a 20 minute drive away from Prussia Cove.

You will eventually reach Cudden Point, where the sea views and horizon seem endless. The grass top cliff provides a perfect spot for a break to soak-up the breathtaking views and enjoy a bite of your sandwich.

Further along, towards Piskies Cove, you’ll spot two posts on the coastal path. The posts are the remains of HMS Warspite, a destroyer built in Devonport that served in the Battle of Jutland. The ship was moored here on the way to be scrapped in Mount’s Bay in 1947, but broke it’s moorings, running aground in Prussia Cove.

Take a leisurely walk through Porthleven, discovering its picturesque harbour, stunning coastal views, and charming village atmosphere in Cornwall.

Over the hilltops, in the distance, you will see a sandy inlet, which is called Piskies Cove. This sheltered beach is often overlooked, however a short trek down the cliff will reward you with a Cornish secret spot.

Further along the coast path, lined with hedgerows and flowers, you’ll end up at Bessy’s Cove. Tucked away, Bessy’s Cove is a picturesque rocky cove perfect for sunbathing, swimming, alfresco dining and snorkelling.

Spend a lazy summer day, away from the crowds, exploring Prussia Cove.

Discover a beach on your doorstep at Acton Castle.

Circular walk from Trevone to Padstow

A coastal walk and countryside stroll all rolled into one.

There isn’t many places where you can experience inspiring sea views and tranquil countryside scenery on a walk. Cornwall is the perfect place to experience the best of both worlds, especially when it goes hand in hand with one of our fantastic dog-friendly properties.

Nestled among rolling hills, on the North coast of Cornwall, discover a charming Cornish village with a wide sandy beach, flanked by high sea cliffs.

Trevone Bay is situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; just two miles from the popular fishing harbour of Padstow. Starting at Trevone beach, the circular walk is 7.4 miles long; a moderate route along the rugged Atlantic coast.

Visiting with a large group? Discover our large holiday homes perfect for big families or friend groups.

Follow the cliff path, past the Round Hole, which is a collapsed sea cave, with a channel that is still open to the sea. At high tide, on a calm day, it is possible to kayak right through the cave.

Walk up the cliff, past the gateway, and follow the main path across the coastal heath. Track the route taken by sailing ships to Stepper Point. The many caves spotted along the coast, provide ledges where seals haul themselves out of the water.

In the Spring and Summer time, the coastal heath is teaming with wildlife and wildflowers. The aromatic smell of wild gorse lingers in the air.

Near to Stepper Point, spot the stone tower standing proud on the clifftop. Known as the “Pepper Pot” the 40 foot stone tower, was built in 1830, as a daymark – a navigation beacon for seafarers during daylight. At 240 feet above sea level, the tower is visible from 30 miles away.

At Stepper Point, soak-up the panoramic sea views, and descend on the coastal path along the Camel Estuary to Hawker’s Cove. From the coastal path, look across the Estuary to Rock and Daymer Bay. There is a passenger ferry which operates between Rock and Padstow.

Explore our holiday properties in Padstow, just a short drive away from Port Isaac and Polzeath.

From Hawker’s Cove, cross the sandy beach of St George’s Cove before finally reaching the bustling harbour of Padstow.

In Padstow, stop for a spot of lunch at one of the local eateries or fish and chips on the harbour from Rick Steins.

Walking back to Trevone, follow the signs from Padstow town to Prideaux Place, a beautiful eighteenth century manor house. Pass the front of Prideaux Place, and follow the lane to find a barn on your right. Opposite the barn, take the footpath to the left and over the stile. Bare right along the path along the field.

On the route back to Trevone, pass the Padstow Farm Shop. Pop in for fresh veg, fruit, Cornish cheese, meat and everyday amenities. Follow the fields back to Trevone Bay and relax on the beach with a barbecue, and watch the sun go down.

Want to explore more of Cornwall? Check out our favourite autumnal walks in Cornwall.

Book your self-catering beach holiday in Trevone.

5 Things to Wear on a Winter Beach Walk

Wrap up warm this winter.

Our favourite time of year to go for walks is just as Winter starts.

There is something so exhilarating about the crisp icy sea air hitting your rosy cheeks and the gales blowing your hair in every direction.

In Cornwall, we are blessed to have the beautiful, golden sandy beaches to stroll along all year round – in Winter they truly come alive.

Thinking about bringing your dog on holiday? Check out our dog-friendly holiday properties.

What to wear on a winter walk:

A good strong pair of jeans is the best foundation for any beach walk.

Classic American brand Levi Strauss is world renowned for its authenticity and integrity.

Levi’s skinny, mid rise 711 Blue Lane jeans are a must have. Crafted from quality cotton, that will last years and years, mixed with a small amount of spandex makes these jeans ridiculously easy to just pop on and go. With a good level of stretch, the jeans offer a good level of comfort for those hilly climbs.

Wanting to stay somewhere surrounded by coastal walks? Check out our luxury holiday properties in St Agnes.

Knitwear:

No winter would be complete without knitwear.

Our favourite for this season is the Alon Vanille Striped Jumper from French fashion brand Marie Sixtine.

Beautifully made from a wool and mohair mix, that wicks away moisture as well as keeping in the heat, the super feminine stripe pattern is designed so that it always looks stylish. Lilac, pale pink and warm caramel hues are the perfect shades to take you right through to Spring.

A warm winter hat shouldn’t be forgotten.

The Elgon Beanie, from Belgian accessories brand Barts, is a super cute and adds a pop of colour to any beach stroll. Hand knitted with a soft fleece lining a thick, chunky textured of the weave keeps your head protected from the winter winds.

Footwear:

For your feet you’ll need something sturdy and reliable, like the Sk8-Hi trainers from Vans.

At first sight the trendy green colour and moccasin-inspired fringing deter from the more sensible aspects of the shoe.

Padded collars give support and flexibility while the signature waffle rubber soles that comfortable and fuss free.

 Winter coat:

When heading out on a winter walk it helps to be prepared and rain is always a factor when planning any outing.

Beat the weather with the Frontier Parka from Californian surf brand O’Neill.

Hyper-dry repels water whilst maintaining breath-ability, this season’s coat comes in a shorter length for ease whilst out and about.

Adjustable waist ties, a slim fit and an ergonomically shaped fur hood are just a few of things that make this essential piece stylish as well as functional.

Levi’s 711 Skinny Mid Rise Blue Lane Jeans, £95

Marie Sixtine Alon Vanille Striped Jumper, £149

Barts Elgon Whisper Lilac Beanie Hat, £22.99

Vans Sk8-Hi Moc Ivy Green Trainers, £75

O’Neill Frontier Parka Deep Dark Melee, £199.99

Visit www.roosbeach.co.uk to shop the look.

Visiting Cornwall in the winter? Create new traditions by the coast in our blog on our favourite things to do in winter in Cornwall.

Walk through – Port Isaac

Immerse yourself in the Doc Martin TV set, tuck into freshly landed fish from celeb chef Nathan Outlaw’s kitchen, or simply sit by the harbour wall to take sublime views from the 700-year old village of Port Isaac.

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Tucked away on North Cornwall’s dramatic coast, Port Isaac has become synonymous with the Doc Martin series and now the Hollywood blockbuster, Fishermen’s Friends.
Port Issac

It’s just a ten-minutes walk along the South West Coast Path from Port Gaverne, once a thriving port for landing slate, coal and pilchards. This sheltered narrow cove has remained pretty much unchanged for hundreds of years. Now owned by the National Trust, it’s become a popular spot for coasteering, paddleboarding and sea swimming. There’s plenty of space for dogs to play at low tide, and you can make a pit stop for a pint or a snack at Pilchards Beach café – part of The Port Gaverne Hotel.

Follow the coast path into pretty Port Isaac, which really is one of Cornwall’s most picturesque villages, with its narrow lanes and 18th century fishermen’s cottages tumbling to the water’s edge. Browse the art and craft galleries, gaze out to the big blue abyss and soak up the historic vibe as you wander through this characterful village.

Fancy looking at other areas of the North Coast? Explore our holiday properties in Port Isaac, just a short drive away from Rock and Padstow.

Fishing boats putter in and out of the harbour, landing the freshest of the ocean’s bounty that you’ll find plated up in a scattering of waterside cafés and restaurants. As well divine seafood served by one of Cornwall’s best-known chefs, Nathan Outlaw, there is a range of cafés and eateries serving everything from haut cuisine to Cornish cream teas.

If you’re a fan of Doc Martin it’s just 200m to the other side of the harbour to spot his home in the fictional coastal village ‘Portwenn’. The Old School Hotel & Restaurant also features in the series, and makes a great pit stop for a steaming bowl of mussels or a slap-up dinner of seasonal produce.

If you fancy tucking into one of the best crab sandwiches in Cornwall (in our opinion), make a beeline for Fresh from the Sea. Owner Calum heads out on his fishing boat daily, to bring in the succulent local crabs that are hand-picked and served in home-baked wholemeal bread. As well as crab you can also tuck into lobster, fresh fish and Porthilly Oysters, all plucked from local waters.

Experience 24 hours in Port Isaac with the Nathan Outlaw experience, indulging in exquisite cuisine and exploring the picturesque coastal charm of this Cornish village.

Situated on Roscarrok Hill, the local Methodist chapel – now the family-run Port Isaac Pottery and Chapel Café, makes a good coffee stop. If you’re lucky, you might even hear the popular sea shanty of the group of Fisherman’s Friends stretching their vocal chords there over a crate of ale – as Billy Hawkins, a baritone player, now owns it.

If you’re up for a more challenging stomp along this staggering section of the coast, head out of Port Isaac and tackle the undulating South West Coast Path to Port Quin. This narrow cleft flanked by cliffs is a stunning and safe location for sea swimming or kayaking, and as the tide ebbs it’s a haven for rockpooling. The beauty of this rugged inlet attracted the original Poldark film crew and a pod of dolphins also regularly comes to play.

Search for your stay in Port Isaac with Beach Retreats.

Walk through – Sennen

Sennen is the country’s first and last port of call. One of the first places to receive the Atlantic’s storms. One of the last places you’d see as you floated away on a boat to America. Sennen feels like the end of the earth. Join us as we take a walk.

It was a sticky warm night when we visited one of the UK’s most far-flung villages near the South West tip of Cornwall. But a building with low pressure only added to its beauty.

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The sand is still bright white. The sea is still unbelievably clear. It’s easy to see why Sennen makes plenty of the UK’s top destinations for jaw-dropping beauty.

The coastline here is wild, and a few wild fishermen still occupy the small fleet of ships in the harbour. Cape Cornwall Gig Rowing Club is also located here. It’s a treacherous stretch of coast, with the sea showing the wisps and change of colour of competing currents.

The Sennen Coastguard Station originally built in 1812 is still a working Lifeboat Station, now manned by the RNLI. It houses a state-of-the-art Tamar-class lifeboat alongside tales of shipwrecks, sea rescues and many, many lives lost at sea. It’s open to the general public and well worth a visit.

From here we take a walk through thatched fisherman’s cottages and upwards along the cliff path towards Sennen’s granite coastguard lookout.

Explore Beach Retreats holiday cottages in Sennen, West Cornwall, offering stunning coastal views and a relaxing retreat amidst natural beauty.

The view here is quite unbeatable. Look left and you’ll see Land’s End just over a mile away jutting out into the Atlantic. Look right and you’ll see the mining coast towards Cape Cornwall. Straight out are the Cowloe rocks and The Tribbens, a natural breakwater during big storms. On a clear day, you can even see the 28 miles out to sea to the Isles of Scilly.

Returning back to the village we had worked up an appetite for our dinner booking at Ben Tunnicliffe’s – a beach-side restaurant that offers relaxed dining. Despite the rain settling in, we tucked ourselves away undercover to enjoy the outdoor barbecue.

Take a scenic walk through Mousehole, immersing yourself in its charming harbour, historic streets, and breathtaking coastal views along the Cornish coast.

Well. It wouldn’t be Cornwall without four seasons in one day.

Book your stay at Sennen with Beach Retreats today.

Walk through – Whitsand Bay

Join us on a walk-through as we visit our latest property destination. Cornwall’s hidden gem – Whitsand Bay – on the South East Cornish coast. A true Beach Retreat.

Thinking about bringing your dog on holiday? Check out our dog-friendly holiday properties.

You only have to take a look at our pictures to see why we’ve decided to spread our wings property portfolio to Whitsand Bay.

Fancy staying in Whitsand Bay? Have a look at our Whitsand Bay holiday properties.

Whitsand Bay

A Beach Retreats property

Whitsand Bay

The Meadow at Whitsand Bay looks out over the sea

Here you’ll find the best and breadth of Cornwall contained within three miles of coastline; long golden beaches, small rocky fishing coves, sweeping green hills akin to Bodmin moor, dramatic cliffs and sleepy villages.

Take a look at our properties at Whitsand Bay and book your holiday today.

Discover Whitsand Bay, a forgotten gem in Cornwall that promises stunning coastal landscapes and tranquil retreats away from the crowds.

Coastal running stretches – #behere with Beach Retreats

The second in our series of blog posts focusing on coastal running in Cornwall. We join Helen Clare on Porthtowan Beach for her essential warm-up and warm-down stretches tailored specifically to coastal running.

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Once a competitive swimmer to a regional level, Helen has always been driven by sport, health and fitness. Now a keen trail runner and surfer, she is dedicated to spreading the health benefits of exercise and yoga and works closely with many athletes as part of their cross-training, injury prevention and therapy. Helen has gained the Leadership in Running Fitness certification and Sport Yoga instructor status.

Helen says: “Start jogging at an easy pace to allow your muscles to warm up as you progress along your run. Afterwards, take the time to do these essential post-run stretches.”

Down Dog

On your hands and feet, bend the knees to guide your hips up and back, lengthening your spine (pictured above). Only then start to think about lowering your heels towards the ground. This pose helps to re-lengthen the hamstrings gradually and stretches out the entire back, realigning and decompressing the spine.

Standing forward fold

From your down dog, walk your feet up to your hands. Bend your knees and look forward, then breath out and draw your chest towards your thighs, straightening your legs to your own degree. This pose releases the lower back and gently stretches the hamstrings.

Low lunge

From the forward Fold, step your right leg back. Place your hands on your front thigh and lower your tail bone towards the ground as you sink your hips comfortably. This pose releases tension in the hip flexors and the quadriceps.

Side stretch

From the low Lunge take your hands to your hips and align hip over knee and knee over ankle. Reach up, hold your right wrist and stretch over to the left. This pose offers a great side body stretch that can go all the way down into the hip, stretching into the tensor fasciae latae muscle, which attaches to the IT band.

Runner’s stretch

From the side Stretch lunge, come up and take your hands to the ground and press your front toes down, lengthening the front leg – this will provide a nice stretch through the front of the ankle and shin. Then, bend the left knee and lift the toes, draw back the hip before beginning to straighten the leg to your own degree. This pose starts to deepen the stretch into the belly of the hamstrings.

Hip opener

From runner’s stretch, widen your left foot out and place your right hand down. Start to turn to your left, flexing back your toes and either placing your left hand gently on your thigh or stretching it up to open the chest. This pose works deep into the glutes and piriformis hip muscles, as well as the back hip flexors and quads – relieving built up tension from running.
Repeat on the other side.

Helen’s top tip!

When home, lie down with your feet up the wall! This relieves pressure on the feet and legs, reverses the blood flow and allows the muscles to rejuvenate!

Discover the freedom of coastal running with expert tips from Beach Retreats

We joined professional yoga instructor and trail runner Helen Clare at www.helenclareyoga.com

Explore the breathtaking beauty of St Agnes in North Cornwall, where coastal trails make it the perfect destination for running enthusiasts.