The best walks and hikes around St. Michael'S Mount

Access to St. Michael's Mount is dictated by the sea. The iconic cobbled causeway is only walkable at low tide, which makes for a memorable experience. It's essential to check the tide times before you set out to ensure a safe crossing. At high tide, you can take a short boat trip to the island.

Dogs are welcome on the public footpaths and coastal trails on the mainland, such as the path between Marazion and Penzance. However, please be aware that dogs are not permitted on the island of St. Michael's Mount itself, including the castle and gardens. Assistance dogs are the only exception.

The town of Marazion is the main starting point for walks to and around St. Michael's Mount. You will find several large pay-and-display car parks on the mainland, conveniently located close to the causeway entrance and the start of the coastal paths.

Yes, the area is great for families. A popular choice is the View of St Michael's Mount – St Michael's Mount loop from Marazion. It's a relatively flat and short walk along the coast, offering constant, fantastic views of the island without being too strenuous for little legs.

While the island itself offers a short loop, most longer circular walks are on the mainland with the Mount as a scenic focus. A great option is the View of St Michael's Mount – Prussia Cove loop from Marazion, which takes you along the beautiful coastline and back.

St. Michael's Way is a historic 12.5-mile (20 km) pilgrimage trail that crosses the Cornish peninsula. It starts in Lelant on the north coast and finishes at St. Michael's Mount on the south coast, taking you through a diverse landscape of countryside, farmland, and ancient sites.

The area is well-served by public transport. Buses run frequently to Marazion from Penzance and other nearby towns. Penzance also has a mainline train station, making it easy to start a walk like the Penzance Seafront and Harbour – View of St Michael's Mount loop from Marazion directly from the station.

The terrain varies. The path between Marazion and Penzance is mostly flat, paved, and very accessible. For a more rugged experience, the section of the South West Coast Path heading east from Marazion towards Praa Sands involves more challenging, uneven ground with some steep climbs and descents.

Yes, you can walk across the causeway at low tide for free and explore the harbour and village area at the base of the Mount. However, there is an admission fee to enter the castle and the subtropical gardens on the island.

Absolutely. The Marazion Marshes, located on the mainland directly opposite the Mount, are a fantastic spot for birdwatching. This RSPB reserve is the largest reed bed in Cornwall and provides a habitat for a wide variety of birds, including herons, egrets, and numerous waterfowl.

There are over 200 hiking routes to explore in the region. These range from short, easy strolls along the bay to challenging sections of the South West Coast Path, offering plenty of options for all fitness levels.

The hikes around St. Michael's Mount are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the dramatic coastal scenery, the unique experience of walking the tidal causeway, and the stunning views of the castle from the surrounding paths.