The best walks and hikes in Cornwall

Cornwall offers a diverse range of hiking experiences. You'll find dramatic coastal paths, such as sections of the South West Coast Path, with rugged cliffs and sandy beaches. Inland, there's the wild, remote landscape of Bodmin Moor, characterized by granite tors and ancient monuments. You can also explore sheltered river valleys and gentler farmland trails, providing options for various ability levels.

Yes, Cornwall has plenty of options for easy and beginner-friendly walks. Out of over 3,400 hiking routes available, more than 2,000 are rated as easy. For example, a shorter version of The Lizard Coastal Walk is an easy 6.3-kilometer path, perfect for a less strenuous outing while still enjoying coastal views.

Absolutely. Many of Cornwall's trails are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. A notable example is the St Ives to Zennor Circular Walk, which offers stunning Atlantic views and granite cliffs. Another option is the Padstow to Trevone loop, a moderate 12.1-kilometer coastal path.

Yes, if you're looking for waterfalls, Bodmin Moor is home to Golitha Falls. This National Nature Reserve offers spectacular cascades along the River Fowey, providing a beautiful and refreshing hiking experience away from the coast.

Cornwall's trails often pass by significant landmarks. Along the coast, you can visit Land's End, the UK's most westerly point, or Lizard Point, the most southerly. Inland on Bodmin Moor, you'll find dramatic tors like Brown Willy Summit and Rough Tor, as well as ancient monuments and remnants of mining heritage.

The komoot community highly rates hiking in Cornwall, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 13,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the region's breathtaking coastal views, the dramatic and ever-changing scenery, and the unique geology. The variety of terrain, from rugged cliffs to tranquil river valleys, is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, Cornwall is home to significant sections of the South West Coast Path, an award-winning National Trail. Over 300 miles of this 630-mile path are within Cornwall, offering challenging long-distance treks with impressive ascents and descents. Another historic long-distance route is The Saints' Way, a 30-mile path crossing Cornwall from coast to coast.

While specific routes for public transport vary, Cornwall has a network of buses and some train lines that can help you access various towns and trailheads, especially along the coast. It's advisable to check local bus and train schedules in advance for the specific area you plan to hike.

Cornwall offers great hiking opportunities year-round. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, with wildflowers blooming in spring and vibrant colors in autumn. Summer is popular for coastal walks and beach access, while winter offers dramatic, wilder scenery, though some paths can be muddy. Always check weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, Cornwall's rich mining history is visible along many trails. The Copper Trail on Bodmin Moor highlights the region's mining heritage. Additionally, coastal walks like the one from Porthleven to Rinsey Head pass iconic monuments such as the stone engine houses at Wheal Trewavas and Wheal Prosper, offering a glimpse into the area's industrial past.

There are over 3,400 hiking routes available in Cornwall on komoot, catering to all levels of experience. This includes over 2,000 easy routes, 1,200 moderate routes, and 140 difficult routes, ensuring a wide variety of choices for every hiker.

Yes, the route from Sennen Cove to Porthcurno offers dramatic landscapes and passes by the historic clifftop Minack Theatre. This allows hikers to combine stunning coastal scenery with a view of this unique open-air theatre carved into the granite cliffs.