The Lookout

A stroll up the Coast Path from Smugglers Cove in Portreath is a must, and is well worth the initial steep climb. You will discover the most mesmerising spots to watch the sunset; take a bottle of wine and a picnic if you can; you’ll be overwhelmed!

The coastal heathland blazes with gorse and heather and the grass fringing the path is sprinkled with wildflowers. If you’re lucky you’ll pass the wild ponies along the way too!

If you’re feeling energetic enough, follow the breathtaking coastline of high cliffs and secret coves, and you will come across Tehidy Woods, which you can also access from Cot Road, which leads directly into Portreath from Illogan. Tehidy has 9 miles of meandering paths, and 250 acres of peaceful lakes and woods to explore.

The woods are an enchanting place to visit all year round, particularly in April and May when the Cornish bluebells appear, making an even more stunning woodland walk, topped off with a traditional Cream Tea at their Country Park Cafe to rest those achey legs.

On the opposite side of Portreath, by the harbour you’ll find an equally beautiful coast path (Slightly easier on the legs!) which leads to Porthtowan, a small village famous for it’s surfing, fishing, and most importantly, its sunsets!

The walk is around 2 miles, and full of surprises. You’ll come across old mines, miles of ancient Cornish stone walls, historical landmarks and acres of Coastal flora. The Blue Bar on the beach is very relaxed, and we feel the best place to sit outside with a pint of Tribute Ale, soaking up the views and inhaling the refreshing sea air. Treat yourself to a delicious roast dinner at The Unicorn Pub, where all produce is fresh and local, and you can bring the dog too!

Just outside of Portreath, you will find a Bike Hire place called Elm Farm. The main Coast to Coast cycle trail runs for 11 miles from Portreath to Devoran, through Scorrier Woods, the Poldice Valley and alongside the stunning Restronguet Creek, and is almost entirely on purpose built cycle paths or quiet country lanes. At a leisurely pace it takes most people less than 2 hours, each way, to cycle the Coast to Coast Trail. If you are like us and fitness isn’t your forte, pop into The Fox and Hounds Pub mid route for a break and a well deserved drink!

Kayaking from Portreath beach is a must, if the seas are calm enough of course. You’ll find the most beautiful secluded sandy beach to the left which is almost always empty as it not accessible by foot. You are more than likely going to see seals along the way, and they often pop up next to the kayak to see what’s going on! Dolphins are often spotted in the bay, and if you take your snorkel, you could find spider crabs, lobsters, and even jelly fish!

Stretch your legs with a walk up to Gwel An Mor to visit their Feadon Wildlife Centre. Here you will see, and can meet the animals; Reindeer, Ostriches, Birds of Prey, Goats, Foxes and more. If you have children (big or small!) make the most of their Falconry Sessions and Wildlife Experiences.
The 9 hole golf course here is Award Winning, and makes for an adventure packed day, followed up by a round of archery, and a fishing session for Carp and Tench in Clover Lake.

If after all this you still have some energy (or time!), book the little ones into a session at Penny Red’s for pony rides they will never forget… All washed down by Fish and Chips and a glass of Camel Valley, at The Atlantic Cafe on the seafront. Enjoy!

To explore further afield, click here to hear our recommendations.