Introduction
Strap in for this wild, windswept and dramatic coastal walk. This section of the south-west coast path is known for its challenging terrain, but it’s rewarding views. It’s not one for beginners.
Distance: 6.5 Miles each way
Time: 3-4 Hours each way
Difficulty: Hard
The Route:
Start at the Island in St. Ives. The climb up to St Nicholas Chapel is worth it for the stunning panoramic views of the ocean, beaches and town. Then head west along Porthmeor Beach and past the Tate gallery. The road above the beach turns into the south-west footpath, which winds its way along the cliffs towards Zennor. Make sure not to miss the turn inland towards Zennor near the end of the route, just as you’re passing Pendour Cove.
There are lots of steep ups and downs along the route with large boulders blocking the path and loose shingle on some of the paths, so it really is a route for competent walkers and dogs, and at times you will have to clamber up and over obstacles. If you want a shorter, easier route then the walk out to Clodgy Point from St Ives only takes about 30 minutes and is relatively flat and gentle. Then you can turn back or head a bit further along and walk back into St. Ives across the fields.
The complete walk to Zennor is around 6.5 miles long and will take around 3-4 hours for a component walker, possibly longer if you aren’t in a hurry and want to stop for pictures and lunch along the way. This is a route you’ll want to get the bus back after, so make sure to check the timetable before setting off, as they don’t run that frequently.
Some of the highlights along the way:
- Hidden coves and tiny beaches – Keep an eye out for small tucked away beaches like Porthkervis and Porthzennor Cove that are often only accessible when the tide is out, the perfect spot to stop for a breather.
- Walking out of St. Ives you have the most stunning views looking back from Man’s Head or Clodgy Point.
- Look out for the Seals: Along the route lie Seal Island & River Cove, common spots for seals to be resting or watching over their pups. Be careful not to disturb them.
The route is popular with dogs. There’s plenty to explore for your four legged friends with plenty of open space for running, bushes to explore and wildlife to bark at. It’s worth nothing that there won’t be many dog bins along the route or points to stop for water. There are also places with a sheer drop not too far from the path.
When you get to the tiny village of Zennor there is the Tinners Arms, a classic cosy Cornish dating all the way back to 1271. After all that hard work you can relax in the cosy traditional setting with warm log fires, local ales and excellent locally sourced pub food. There is also a fantastic Cornish Sunday roast waiting for you if you time it right.
Zennor is also home to St Senara’s Church, a peaceful place to cool off and is worth a visit to see the ‘Mermaid Chair’. Then there are public toilets and the bus stop on the main road for the return journey back to St. Ives.
Make sure you prepare well and stay hydrated. This walk is a true gem, raw, full of character, and a lot of rewarding hard work. We hope that you enjoy it as much as we do. Our dogs definitely love the adventure.
