Discover Cornwall's breathtaking natural beauty with a variety of hiking and walking routes suitable for all levels of adventurers. From rugged coastal paths to peaceful woodlands and scenic countryside, Cornwall offers an abundance of outdoor experiences. Popular trails include the South West Coast Path, which offers stunning sea views, and the iconic St. Michael’s Mount, a must-see for history and nature lovers alike. Explore the rolling hills of Bodmin Moor, the picturesque cliffside trails of the Roseland Peninsula, and the charming beaches along the North Cornwall Coast.
The 10 most beautiful hikes in Cornwall
Discover The Best Coastal Walks in Cornwall
The South West Coast Path
Ready for an unforgettable adventure? The South West Coast Path stretches 630 miles along the stunning coasts of Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, and Dorset. Expect dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and charming fishing villages around every corner.
Highlights include:
- St Ives for turquoise waters and seaside charm
- Land’s End, where the land meets the wild Atlantic
- Tintagel Castle, steeped in Arthurian legend
- The Jurassic Coast, a fossil-hunter’s dream
Spot seals, dolphins, and puffins as you walk, and stop in cosy pubs along the way. Whether you’re in for a day hike or a longer trek, this iconic trail is full of coastal magic.
Beautiful long-distance route around the entire southwest coast of England with breathtaking views over the sea and coastal landscape
Porthcurno to Land’s End
This stunning 3.5-mile stretch of the South West Coast Path links golden sands with mainland Britain’s most westerly point. Starting at the picturesque Porthcurno Beach—home to the famous Minack Theatre—you’ll follow rugged clifftops past dramatic sea views, secret coves, and granite rock formations. It’s a moderate walk with big rewards, ending at the iconic Land’s End viewpoint.
South West Coast Path Cornwall: Minack Theatre, Porthcurno - Lands End
Lizard Point to Kynance Cove
A must-do in Cornwall, this stunning walk takes you along dramatic cliffs from mainland Britain’s most southerly point to the iconic white sands and turquoise waters of Kynance Cove. It’s about 2.5 miles one way, with breathtaking views, wildflowers, and the chance to spot seals or even dolphins. The route is moderately challenging but well worth the effort—especially if you arrive at Kynance Cove at low tide when the beach and rock formations are at their best.
A beautiful 4.5 mile Cornish coastal walk that begins and ends at the picturesque village of The Lizard Peninsula, taking you all the way along the ...
Looe to Polperro
The walk from Looe to Polperro is a scenic 5.5-mile route along the South West Coast Path, weaving through clifftop paths, wooded sections, and hidden coves. With stunning sea views throughout, it leads you from the lively harbour town of Looe to the picture-perfect village of Polperro. A moderate walk with some climbs, it's perfect for a half-day adventure — with plenty of spots to pause and enjoy the coastline along the way.
Your starting point is a rather nice sounding ‘Kissing gate’ at Talland Bay from which you follow the path for three miles with great views of St.
North Atlantic Coastal Walk
The North Atlantic Coastal Walk in Cornwall spans approximately 15-20 miles, stretching from Bude to the Hartland Peninsula. This stunning coastal walk features dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and panoramic views of the North Atlantic Ocean. Along the way, you’ll encounter historic lighthouses, unique rock formations, and peaceful coves, perfect for wildlife spotting, including seals and dolphins.
Cornwall is the surfing capital of Britain, thanks to its beautiful coastline and the reliably large waves coming off the wild North Atlantic Ocean.
Explore Cornwall's Best Nature Walks
Tamar Valley Discovery Trail
The Tamar Valley Discovery Trail (7.5 miles) offers a picturesque walk along the River Tamar, showcasing Cornwall’s industrial heritage and stunning natural beauty. Explore woodland paths, riverside views, and historical sites like Cotehele House and Morwellham Quay, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. Enjoy wildlife spotting, peaceful surroundings, and dramatic valley vistas on this moderate, family-friendly route. Ideal for those seeking an unforgettable Cornwall adventure.
Tamar Valley Discovery Trail
The Fowey Estuary Walk
The Fowey Estuary Walk (5-6 miles) offers stunning riverside views, tranquil woodland paths, and the chance to explore the historic town of Fowey. Highlights include scenic views of the River Fowey, wildlife spotting opportunities like seals and waterfowl, and the picturesque Fowey Harbour. Perfect for nature lovers and families, this easy walk is ideal for those seeking a peaceful day out in Cornwall.
Saint Catherine's Castle - Cornwall AONB - St Fimbarrus Road - Fowey Harbour Hotel Gardens - Old Tennis Court Garden - Old Grammar School Gardens - ...
Cardinham Woods
Tucked away in the heart of Cornwall, Cardinham Woods is perfect for walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers. This beautiful woodland offers a variety of scenic trails, from gentle riverside strolls to more challenging climbs with rewarding views. With a cosy woodland café, picnic spots, and family-friendly paths, it’s an ideal escape for a day outdoors. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you explore the peaceful forest landscape.
Easy walk with a good variety of terrain.
Family-friendly Walks in Cornwall
The Camel Trail
This popular 5.5-mile stretch of the Camel Trail is perfect for families, offering a safe, flat, and traffic-free route along a former railway line. Starting in the picturesque harbour town of Padstow, the trail winds along the Camel Estuary, with stunning views across the water and plenty of opportunities to spot birds and other wildlife. The smooth surface makes it ideal for pushchairs, balance bikes, and family cycling. There are picnic spots along the way and a range of cafés and ice cream stops at both ends – perfect for a relaxed day out in the Cornish countryside.
Padstow to Wadebridge via Camel Trail
Lanhydrock Estate
Visit Lanhydrock estate for a beautiful parkland circular walk. This moderately challenging circular walk takes you through the old forest, riverfront pathways, and open grassland. Here you will embark on flowers, bluebell woods, old trees, and animals such as Roe Deers when going through the woodlands or if that doesn't take your interest then you can buy tickets to visit the house, explore the gardens or have a bite to eat in the onsite cafe.
A stunning walk around the vast Lanhydrock Estate.Please review the walk positively/negatively for the benefit of everyone.
St. Michael's Mount
Ready for adventure? At low tide (check local times), a 250 m granite causeway appears, leading across crab‑filled rock pools and counting stepping stones to St Michael’s Mount. Explore the subtropical gardens, then tour the 12th‑century castle. When little legs tire or the tide returns, hop the shuttle boat back to Marazion—and don’t forget to finish with a Cornish pasty and ice cream by the sea!
St Michael’s Way crosses the Lands End Peninsula from St Ives to St Michael’s Mount on the south coast


