EXPLORING
Cornwall’s coastline has it all - dramatic cliffs, sheltered coves, and awe-inspiring seascapes, says ALEX GREEN as she steps out on the coast in springtime
One of the joys of the Cornwall coastline is the sheer diversity of it. As the rugged north coast gives way to the softer south, there’s a wealth of beautiful sandy bays and secret coves along the way, some of which can only be reached on foot.
And as the weather warms up, there are few greater pleasures than striding out along the coast with the wind behind you and the warmth of the sunshine on your face.
It’s quite possible to come across a secluded beach on a remote stretch of coast and discover that you’ve got it all to yourself. When the time and tide’s right, if you’re brave enough, you could take a bracing dip. Afterwards, you’ll feel full of the joys of spring as your body tingles with the thrill of a cold-water blast.
Here are five of the best spring walks along the coast in Cornwall:
BEST FOR HIDDEN BEACHES
Crackington Haven is a remote village on the north Cornwall coast with a small yet perfectly formed circular walk that combines the coast with the countryside. Start from the car park and stride out along the coast path to the magnificent viewpoint of Cambeak, spotting seals on the rocks below, while looking out for dolphins offshore.
The high cliffs are punctuated by hanging valleys, where streams trickle to the beach in small waterfalls. The undulating path levels off via the inland route as it drops down through the beautiful Ludon valley, where the air fills with birdsong and the woodland is carpeted with bluebells in spring.
Along the way, you’ll encounter the hidden beaches at Little Strand and Strangles, with a rock arch at one end carved out by the sea (approx. 3.5 miles/5.7km).
BEST FOR WALKS FROM THE DOOR
A wild and windswept walk around the rugged tip of The Lizard will be sure to blow away the cobwebs as we emerge from winter. The remote nature of this peninsula makes for a great escape from the everyday, where clifftop hotels and cosy fisherman’s cottages provide a walk from the door wherever you happen to stay.
The traditional fishing port at Cadgwith is a must-see location, which is best visited outside of the summer months. Lesser-known coves lie in wait for the intrepid traveller on foot. From Poltesco, the coast path wends its way to Carleon Cove. Here you can visit the remains of a Victorian factory that o
