South Cornwall – Southwest Coast Path Iconic Spots

Hidden creeks, subtropical gardens, and storybook harbours (Falmouth to Cremyll)

Suggested Walk: 3-4 Days

Route: Falmouth → Lizard Point → Mevagissey → Fowey → Looe → Cremyll

Iconic Venues: Lizard Point The Cadgwith Cove Inn, Falmouth Moth and Moon, Mevagissey The Fountain Inn, Looe The Jolly Sailor.

This coastal journey through South Cornwall feels like stepping into a beautifully illustrated storybook, filled with secluded bays, lush subtropical gardens, charming fishing villages, and legendary hospitality.

Falmouth to Lizard Point – Subtropical Gardens & Coastal Splendour

My journey begins in vibrant Falmouth, a maritime hub buzzing with energy and creativity. Breakfast at the delightfully artsy Moth and Moon sets the tone—a place where local art graces the walls, coffee is rich, and pastries tempt indulgence.

Leaving Falmouth, the path meanders past exotic subtropical gardens, their vibrant blooms spilling onto the trails. Trebah and Glendurgan Gardens both captivate me with towering palms and tree ferns, creating an enchanting tropical oasis beside the Cornish coast.

Arriving at Lizard Point, Britain’s southernmost tip, feels special—almost magical. Dramatic cliffs meet an endless expanse of ocean, offering panoramic views of turquoise waters. Evening finds me nestled in the cosy maritime charm of Cadgwith Cove Inn, enjoying seafood caught by colourful fishing boats resting just outside the window, as sunset paints the sky gold and pink.

Lizard Point to Mevagissey – Fishing Villages & Authentic Stories

After waking to the sound of seabirds, I set off along the path weaving through rugged headlands and secluded coves, like the captivating Kynance Cove with its dazzling turquoise waters and white sands—a perfect mid-morning stop for quiet reflection.

By afternoon, I reach the postcard-perfect village of Mevagissey, its maze of narrow streets and historic cottages evoking another era. Fishermen unload their catch onto the bustling quay, and I’m drawn into the lively warmth of The Fountain Inn, where laughter mingles with stories of life at sea. Fresh fish suppers and local ale flow freely, capturing the spirit of Cornwall's welcoming coastal community.

Mevagissey to Looe (via Fowey) – Tales of Smugglers & Seafaring Charm

The route eastward toward Fowey passes through secluded woodland trails and quiet, fern-lined streams. Arriving in Fowey, a town steeped in maritime tradition, I pause to soak in the riverside beauty and charming atmosphere of narrow, boutique-lined streets. Legends of smugglers and pirates linger here, whispered by the wind along the historic quays.

Beyond Fowey, I cross by ferry to Polruan, continuing toward the lively harbour town of Looe, famous for sandy beaches and a colourful fishing fleet. I’m captivated by the town’s charm—fishermen mending nets, children crabbing from the quay, and families enjoying evening strolls along the harbour. The welcoming lights of The Jolly Sailor invite me in, where I find the atmosphere warm, convivial, and full of coastal cheer—a perfect ending to a rewarding day.

Looe to Cremyll – Hidden Creeks & Peaceful Reflections

The final stretch toward Cremyll takes me through some of Cornwall’s most secluded and serene landscapes. The path quietly skirts hidden creeks and tidal inlets, air rich with salt and the quiet rustle of wildlife. This is the gentler side of the South West Coast Path—a chance for contemplation, listening only to the calls of shorebirds and the distant murmur of waves.

As I approach Cremyll, home to the spectacular Mount Edgcumbe Estate, the elegant house and gardens appear across a shimmering stretch of water. My arrival feels like stepping into another time, an enchanting final scene to an unforgettable journey. Here, in the tranquil peace of Cremyll’s waterfront, I savour the last lingering moments of my coastal adventure, already treasuring the memory of every hidden cove, lush garden, storybook village, and friendly inn encountered along the way.

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Enjoy the walk? We’re creating a special South West Coast Path merch collection, paying tribute to the iconic venues that make the journey unforgettable. Did we miss a must-do iconic venue or experience? Let us know! 

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