Begin your journey in Penzance, a lively coastal town that marks the start of this section of the South West Coast Path in the heart of Cornwall. With its relaxed and creative atmosphere, Penzance combines seafaring character with a vibrant cultural scene, full of cosy cafés, restaurants with local flavour and galleries showcasing the region's artistic talent.

Overnight in Penzance

Elmsdale

Leaving behind the coastal bustle of Penzance, the South West Coast Path leads you along the sweeping curve of Mount's Bay, where the horizon opens up elegantly and the rhythm of the sea sets the pace of the journey. It doesn't take long for the unmistakable silhouette of St Michael's Mount to appear before you, a medieval castle perched on a tidal island, connected to the mainland by an ancient stone causeway that only emerges when the tide allows.

This Cornish icon invites you to take a magical break. You can explore it on foot when the sea is low or cross by boat if the waters have risen again. From there, the trail continues through rolling hills and low cliffs, then descends gently to Praa Sands, a wide white sandy beach where surfers brave the waves and the salty air encourages you to stop and contemplate.

The final stretch takes you into the charming fishing village of Porthleven, with its sheltered harbour and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for ending a day marked by history, changing landscapes and the constant presence of the sea.

Ascent: 380m (1,247ft) / Descent: 402m (1,319ft)

Overnight in Porthleven

The Artist

The day begins with a peaceful stroll along the beach, where the sand merges with the sea foam and the horizon remains open and bright. Soon you reach Loe Bar, a strip of sand separating the ocean from Loe Pool, Cornwall's largest freshwater lake. This spot is also a birdwatcher's paradise, so take a moment to explore and let nature surprise you.

From here, the trail climbs back up the cliffs, offering new views as it progresses towards Mullion Cove, a small fishing port nestled between rock formations and natural walls that protect it from Atlantic winds. The atmosphere is serene and authentic, a reflection of coastal life in Cornwall.

The last few kilometres to Lizard Point, the southernmost tip of the United Kingdom, require extra effort as the terrain becomes more uneven and marshy, but the scenery makes up for it. Here, the South West Coast Path reaches some of its most spectacular stretches, between vibrantly coloured cliffs and a coastline that seems carved out for adventure.

Ascent: 441m (1,447ft) / Descent: 383m (1,257ft)

Overnight in Lizard

Penmenner House

From the southernmost tip of the United Kingdom, Lizard Point, the trail winds through a unique landscape, where the land seems to stretch out towards the sea like the “big toe of Cornwall”. Here, the subtropical climate creates a special ecosystem in which rare plant species flourish, adding an exotic touch to this already spectacular coastline.

The first few kilometres towards Cadgwith Cove are a visual delight, where the cliffs elegantly overlook the Atlantic and views of the historic Lizard lighthouse mark a characterful start. Cadgwith, with its boats beached on pebbles and its seafaring air, is a place that seems to resist the passage of time.

As you continue, the landscape becomes wilder. At Kenneck Sands, a beach hidden among rocks, you can stop to explore the tide pools, home to sea cucumbers, starfish and other fascinating creatures that inhabit this sheltered corner of the coastline.

The climb up the Black Head Point cliff offers one last dose of challenge before the trail descends gently towards Coverack, a charming little harbour where white houses line up facing the sea.

Ascent: 247m (810ft) / Descent: 307m (1,007ft)

Overnight in Coverack

The Bay Hotel

From the rugged coastline, the trail briefly heads inland through Dean Quarry, where ancient, dark gabbro is mined, a rock that tells the geological story of this coastline formed by fire and pressure. Soon, the path returns to hug the cliffs, with uninterrupted views of Manacles Reef, a place as beautiful as it is treacherous, responsible for countless shipwrecks over the centuries.

The sea here is deep and steeped in history, for beneath its waters lie the remains of lost ships, reminding us how close this coast is to the busy shipping lanes of Falmouth. But on land, the path offers calm, with gentle stretches leading you to the quiet villages of Porthoustock and Porthallow, where the houses look out to sea and boats rest on the beach.

As you pass Nare Point, the views open up to the wide bay of Falmouth, before the path curves gently inland to take you to the charming village of Helford, with its estuary, hidden gardens and old stone quays.

In Helford, you will need to take a boat across the river to reach Mawnan Smith, where you will spend the night. Please note that this ferry operates daily between 1 April and 31 October. You can check timetables and prices on the Helford River Boats website.

Ascent: 320m (1,049ft) / Descent: 325m (1,066ft)

Overnight in Mawnan Smith

Trelawne Hotel

From the tranquil shores of Port Saxon, the trail follows the winding coastline, where rolling hills descend towards the sea and make their way to the rugged Cape Rosemullion. Here, the landscape retains its wild essence, with hidden coves and cliffs covered in vegetation.

As you approach Maenporth, the atmosphere becomes livelier. The wide, sheltered beach attracts families, walkers and swimmers, and the trail begins to fill with local life. The route circles Pendennis Point, where the castle watches over the entrance to Falmouth Harbour from above. From there, the path descends towards the docks and the lively town centre, where cafés, boats and historic buildings welcome you at the end of the walk.

Ascent: 84m (275ft) / Descent: 130m (427ft)

Overnight in Falmouth

The Lerryn

After a delicious breakfast, it is time to say goodbye and return to your place of origin.

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