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South West Coast Path: Falmouth to Plymouth | Stage 6

9 Days
77 miles | 124 Km
Falmouth - Plymouth
From
9 Days
77 miles | 124 Km
Falmouth - Plymouth
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South West Coast Path: Falmouth to Plymouth | Stage 6

9 Days
77 miles | 124 Km
Falmouth - Plymouth
Personalised Quotation
Luggage Transfers
24/7 Travel Assistance
Selected Accommodations
Walk along a splendid stretch of the South West Coast Path, from Falmouth to Plymouth, exploring the region that links southern Cornwall with the famous English seaport. This itinerary combines natural coastal attractions, picturesque fishing villages and the realm of British maritime history.
  • Walk along jagged cliffs, descend to small hidden bays and beaches with clear waters, combining elevated sections by the sea with paths that skirt the coast.
  • Discover charming coastal villages such as Mevagissey, with its lively fishing harbour, and Charlestown, where old boats on the quay evoke times of traditional sailing.
  • Admire coastal fortresses such as St Mawes Castle on the Roseland Peninsula, built during the reign of Henry VIII, an imposing witness to the British crown's defensive past.
  • Along the way, you will enjoy delicious local cuisine: Cornish pasties, fresh crabs, freshly caught fish and craft beers served in cosy coastal pubs.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival in Falmouth
Begin your journey in Falmouth, a vibrant coastal town in southern Cornwall that combines maritime history, local charm and a relaxed seaside atmosphere. Its natural harbour, one of the deepest in the world, is home to traditional sailing ships and boats that reflect its rich naval heritage.

You can stroll through its lively streets lined with independent shops, galleries, cafes and cosy restaurants where you can savour fresh seafood and typical Cornish cuisine. Close to the centre, small beaches such as Gyllyngvase and Castle Beach invite you to take a walk by the waves or enjoy a sunset overlooking the ocean.

Falmouth is the perfect starting point for your adventure along the South West Coast Path, where the seafaring spirit and Atlantic breeze will accompany you from day one.

Overnight in Falmouth

Greenbank Hotel

Built in 1640, this accommodation offers rooms with television, private bathroom and free Wi-Fi. It also has a restaurant and bar.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 2 - Falmouth to Portloe 13,6 miles I 22,0 km
Start the day with two delightful ferry crossings, first to St Mawes and then to Place, where your walk to Portloe begins. Before setting off, take a moment to explore St Mawes, a picturesque coastal village dominated by its imposing clover-shaped castle, built in the time of Henry VIII to protect the entrance to the Fal estuary.

From Place, the trail guides you around the St Anthony peninsula, past a small coastal church and the lighthouse that stands guard over the sea like a guardian of the horizon. Between golden sandy beaches and green valleys, the path leads you to Portscatho, a quiet fishing village ideal for pausing and enjoying lunch by the sea.

Finally, the trail descends between hidden coves to the harbour of Portloe, a haven of unspoilt beauty where dark rocks and calm seas provide the perfect end to an unforgettable day.

Ascent: 438m (1,437ft) / Descent: 437m (1,434ft)

Overnight in Portloe

Jago Cottage

This charming accommodation offers rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. You can also enjoy its beautiful garden, where you can relax at the end of the day.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 3 - Portloe to Mevagissey 12,1 miles I 19,5 km
Begin your journey in Portloe, a small, peaceful harbour where the murmur of the sea marks the start of the trail. From here, the path winds through rolling hills and rugged coastlines, guiding you through the remote villages of West and East Portholland, two hidden gems that preserve the charm of traditional coastal life.

Soon you will reach Porthluney Beach, a golden spot where the waves caress the sand and time seems to stand still. After a break by the sea, be sure to visit nearby Caerhays Castle, an elegant mansion facing the bay, surrounded by lush gardens that dazzle with their colour and serenity.

The trail then climbs towards Dodman Point, one of the most spectacular headlands on the coast, from where the views stretch towards the Lizard and the undulating coastline that disappears into the horizon. The route then descends to Gorran Haven, a peaceful fishing village ideal for a break before continuing on to Mevagissey, whose lively harbour, narrow streets and bustling shops offer a perfect end to this stage of the journey through history, nature and the sea.

Ascent: 565m (1,854ft) / Descent: 570m (1,870ft)

Overnight in Mevagissey

Kerryanna Country House

Surrounded by a large, beautiful garden where you can relax and enjoy the fresh air, this accommodation offers comfortable rooms with private bathrooms.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 4 - Mevagissey to Charlestown 7,2 miles I 11,7 km
Leaving Mevagissey harbour, the trail leads you towards Penare Point, passing through ruins covered in vegetation that evoke centuries of maritime history. You will soon reach the small, peaceful harbour of Pentewan, a charming spot where it is worth stopping for a coffee or a pint in its cosy pub before continuing on your way.

From there, the path follows the golden sands of the bay before climbing towards Gamas Point and the rugged heights of Black Head, where an Iron Age castle once stood. The views from this point are breathtaking, with the coastline opening up into a succession of cliffs and coves that showcase the power of the sea and the passage of time.

The trail descends back to the coast before turning inland, skirting the wide bay of St Austell. Your day ends in Charlestown, a charming historic harbour famous for its tall ships and maritime visitor centre, which pays tribute to Cornwall's naval past.

Ascent: 444m (1,456ft) / Descent: 438m (1,437ft)

Overnight in Charlestown

Boscundle Manor

Located in a privileged setting, this accommodation offers rooms with television, private bathroom and free Wi-Fi. It also has several gardens, a terrace and a bar.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 5 - Charlestown to Fowey 10,4 miles I 16,8 km
Starting from Charlestown, the trail skirts the wide bay of St Austell, where the sound of the waves accompanies the start of the day. Soon you will reach the long beach at Par Sands, a stretch of open, bright sand that invites you to walk barefoot by the sea. From there, the path enters the wilder terrain of Gribbin Head, a peninsula of rugged beauty dominated by its iconic red and white striped tower, a former signal point offering panoramic views across the entire Cornish coast.

This is the coast of Daphne du Maurier, the setting that inspired many of her novels. At Polridmouth, you will discover a hidden beach that is home to the small boathouse where the writer lived for years, a corner steeped in history and literary mystery.

The trail continues to wind its way between rocky coves and cliffs crowned by St. Catherine's Castle, before descending to Fowey, a charming harbour town full of life. With its bars, restaurants and cobbled streets facing the water, Fowey offers the perfect end to a day combining nature, literature and the sea.

Ascent: 301m (988ft) / Descent: 292m (958ft)

Overnight in Fowey

The Gelleon Inn

This charming coastal accommodation offers rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.

It also has a delicious restaurant that uses local produce.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 6 - Fowey to Looe 12,1 miles I 19,5 km
Start the day by taking the small ferry across to Polruan, a peaceful journey that marks the beginning of a day that is as challenging as it is spectacular. You can find all the information about the ferry on the C Toms & Son website.

From the pier, the path climbs steeply towards the cliffs, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking views of the open sea and the wild Cornish coastline.

Today's route takes you through one of the most remote and unspoilt sections of the South West Coast Path, where the paths wind along the edge of the sea between meadows, cliffs and salty breezes. Soon you will reach the unspoilt Lantic Bay, a cove of golden sand and turquoise waters that invites you to stop and enjoy the scenery.

Further on, the path descends to the picturesque village of Polperro, with its sheltered harbour and whitewashed houses, the ideal place to take a break and enjoy a snack. From there, the route levels out, passing through charming Talland Bay, before following the seawall that leads to Looe, where the views towards St George's Island provide the perfect end to a day full of coastal beauty and adventurous spirit.

Ascent: 580m (1,902ft) / Descent: 580m (1,902ft)

Overnight in Looe

Talland Bay Hotel

This modern accommodation, surrounded by beautiful surroundings, offers comfortable rooms with television, private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.

It also has a restaurant serving dishes made with local produce.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 7 - Looe to Crafthole 8,7 miles I 14,0 km
From the lively port of Looe, the trail climbs gently, leaving behind the hustle and bustle of the coast and passing by the quiet resorts of Millendreath, where the sound of the sea accompanies your first steps of the day. Soon you will reach Bodigga Cliff, where the views open up to an endless horizon of blue and rock.

The path continues through woods that line the cliffs, offering shade and serenity before descending to Seaton Beach, a cosy spot perfect for pausing and enjoying a coffee by the sea. From there, the trail continues towards Downderry, and if the tide allows, you can walk directly along the beach, with the waves lapping at your feet.

A zigzag path then climbs up to Batten Heights, the highest point on the entire Cornish coast, 140 metres above sea level. The views from here are simply spectacular, taking in the whole bay and the cliffs you have walked along. Finally, the route descends around Whitesands Bay to Portwrinkle, a charming fishing village where the rhythm of the sea marks the end of a day spent among forests, peaks and golden sand.

From there, you will head to Crafthole, a picturesque coastal spot where green hills merge with the echo of the sea and every sunset brings the tranquillity of life by the horizon. There you will spend the night and prepare for the last day of walking on your tour.

Downderry: If there is no availability at Crafthole, you will be accommodated in this town. We will make the necessary arrangements for you to have the necessary transfers between the towns.

Ascent: 437m (1,434ft) / Descent: 357m (1,171ft)

Overnight in Crafthole

Finnygook Inn

This accommodation offers rooms with flat-screen televisions, private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.

It also has a large garden, a bar and a restaurant.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 8 - Crafthole to Plymouth 12,8 miles I 20,6 km
Your final day offers a perfect combination of forests, cliffs and beaches, bringing your adventure along the south-west coast to a spectacular close. The trail begins behind Fort Tregantle, a historic fort built to protect the town from the sea, before continuing along the top of Long Sands beach, where the sea breeze and the sound of the waves accompany your every step.

One of the most spectacular spots of the day is the Rame Head viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the coast and the open sea. The route continues to Cawsand and Kingsand Bay, charming coves perfect for stopping for lunch and enjoying a well-deserved rest by the sea.

The walk continues through woodland via Mount Edgecumbe County Park to Cremyll, where you will take the ferry to Plymouth. You can find more information about the ferry on the Plymouth Boat Trips website.

The last few kilometres are along the seafront to Plymouth Hoe, where your accommodation for the last night of your trip awaits. To round off the day, you can enjoy fresh seafood at one of the seafront restaurants in the Barbican, relax with a picnic in the sunshine on the Hoe, or even take a guided behind-the-scenes tour of Devonport Dockyard.

Ascent: 334m (1,096ft) / Descent: 394m (1,293ft)

Overnight in Plymouth

Admiral's House by Maison Pierre

This historic accommodation offers comfortable, well-equipped rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. It also has a restaurant and a lovely outdoor area with a terrace.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 9 - Plymouth
After a delicious breakfast, it's time to say goodbye and return to your place of origin.

End of our services.

Itinerary Map

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    Services

    Included

    • Accommodation in en suite rooms
    • Daily Breakfasts
    • Luggage transfers between accommodations
    • Information dossier with maps and routes
    • 24-hour telephone support
    • Sustainable travel, we compensate the CO2 emissions of your trip
    • Taxes

    Extras

    • Travel insurance
    • Cancellation insurance
    • Additional nights

    Accomodation

    General information


    The accommodations with which we collaborate have a private bathroom and all the necessary services to ensure the best comfort available.

    Our team checks in situ the quality of all the accommodations offered, so that you have an unforgettable experience during your trip.

    The accommodation that we will book for your trip will be selected taking into account our commitment to you: guaranteeing comfort, calm and enjoyment throughout your trip.

    We work with quality hotels and country cottages with limited capacity, so we invite you to confirm your reservation as soon as possible.

    The name of each accommodation will be provided to you a few weeks before your trip begins.

    Room types


    It is possible to book this journey in single, double or triple rooms.

    All rooms have private bathrooms.

    Travel & Transfers

    To reach the starting point of this walking route, you can fly to Newquay or Bristol Airport, or you can fly to one of the various airports in London.

    If you arrive at Newquay Airport, you will need to take a bus to Falmouth. From Bristol Airport, you will first need to take a bus to Plymouth and then a train.

    You can find more information about trains on the GWR website and about buses on the First Bus website.

    To return to your home town from Plymouth, you can fly from Exeter or Bristol airports. To get to either of these two airports, you will need to take a direct train to the relevant city centre and then take a bus to the airport.

    You can find more information about trains on the GWR website.

    FAQs

    Is luggage transfer included? What are the luggage requirements?
    Absolutely! Each traveller has included 1 piece of luggage that we will transfer between your accommodations. It's important that this piece of luggage meets the following criterias:
    • Maximum weight of 45 lbs (20 kg).
    • Must be only 1 piece of luggage without any attachments or accessories.
    • Should not contain valuables, fragile items, food or medications.
    • Must be correctly identified (booking reference of your trip and the full name of the trip holder).
    The approximate luggage delivery time will be at 4:00 PM.
    What is the best time of year to do this trip?
    The tour is available from March to early October. April, May and June are particularly recommended, when spring flowers fill the landscape and temperatures are pleasant for walking. September and early October also offer an ideal experience, with fewer visitors after the high season. For those seeking tranquillity, it is also possible to take this trip in March and late October, when the villages and trails are quieter. However, during these months the weather can be more unpredictable, with cold, wind, rain and muddy paths, so it is advisable to come well prepared.
    What should my physical preparation be?
    This route is of medium-high difficulty, making it ideal for people looking for 6 to 7 hours of walking per day with climbs that can be steeper and longer. It is recommended that you are in good physical condition and in good health. Some sections of the walk have uneven terrain, including rocky areas.
    How far in advance should I book my trip?
    We recommend that you book as soon as you are sure about your dates, as accommodation can fill up very quickly in this area.
    What equipment do I need to bring?
    Once you make your reservation we will send you all the detailed information about the specific equipment you need for this route, considering recommendations for shoes, boots, clothes and a day-to day backpack.
    What if I'm not able to finish one of the stages?
    You can call us to arrange a private transfer for you. If you prefer, you can also use public transport or local taxis to get to your next accommodation.

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