Mention sun, sea, sand and surf to an English person, and they may well think of Cornwall, a land of rugged coastline and spectacular beaches, but also strong Celtic heritage and ancestry, ancient myths and legends, and pretty fishing ports. Less isolated than it once was from England’s more populated areas due to improved rail and road links, Cornwall is a much-loved destination for travellers from all over the world, and its dramatic and breath-taking scenery combined with its romantic seafaring traditions gives it an independent flavour of great appeal. Captured in literature by the likes of Daphne De Maurier in books such as Jamaica Inn and Rebecca, and Winston Graham in his Poldark series, this is the land of great tin mining heritage, Land’s End, fabulous seafood, and the famous Cornish pasty.
Situated on a long peninsula with no inland area more than 20 miles from the sea, and with a coastline of over 400 miles, it’s no surprise that Cornwall is so highly regarded by those that love being by the sea. Over 300 beaches of great variety, from wonderful sandy beaches to cosy sheltered coves, provide endless opportunities for fun and activity. Hikers can spend weeks exploring the South West coast path that runs the entire length of Cornwall’s coast, stopping at one gorgeous community after another, some small, some large, and nearly all of them with accommodations, places to eat at, and plenty to see and do.
For history and culture lovers, Cornwall’s tin mining past has UNESCO World Heritage status, and both on the clifftops and inland there are many opportunities to discover more about this important aspect of the county’s past. The world of art and craft is very much alive throughout the county, and for families there are attractions aimed at every age.
Garden lovers will be in their element, with fabulous visits available to the likes of The Eden Project, The Lost Gardens of Heligan and Lanhydrock, along with many others.
It’s just a case of choosing from one of the many appealing areas in which to base oneself, and then it’s time to start exploring this magnificent region.
The North of Cornwall evokes a classic vision of craggy cliffs, hidden coves, tin mining heritage and surfers on sweeping, golden beaches. However, behind these wonderful impressions lies a land of history, myth, rich culture and undying spirit, offering the visitor far more than they first expected.
There’s no doubt that the West end of Cornwall packs a great deal into a relatively small area, making it a highly desirable destination despite its position at the very southwest tip of England. Containing some of the county’s wildest scenery, it also houses some of Cornwall’s most popular and iconic locations.
The South of Cornwall offers ample opportunity for visitors to really soak up the charm of this popular county. Cosy fishing communities, sheltered sandy beaches, pretty estuaries and lush gardens offering tantalising views of the sea are all aspects that make this area so desirable to tourists.
Plenty of visitors mistakenly bypass the two inland gems of Bodmin Moor and the Tamar Valley as they rush onward to the lure of sandy beaches and dramatic coastline. However, there is good reason for their designations as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and both offer some splendid opportunities for activity, relaxation, and the chance to appreciate an off-the-beaten-track experience.
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