Exploring Cornwall’s Heritage Coast

Destination
England
Duration
9 Days
Activity Level
Challenging
Comfort Level
Superior
Welcome to a captivating journey through Cornwall, an English county steeped in history and natural beauty. Begin your exploration in the picturesque Carbis Bay, renowned for its azure waters and golden sands, before venturing to the vibrant seaside town of St. Ives, celebrated for its artistic community and stunning coastal vistas. Continue along the rugged coastline to Porthcurno, home to the iconic Minack Theatre and breathtaking cliffs. Explore the maritime heritage of Penzance, where charming streets are intertwined with tales of pirates and smugglers. Traverse south to Falmouth, a bustling port city brimming with maritime history and vibrant culture. Wander through the quaint village of Flushing, with its colorful houses and serene harbor views, before arriving in St. Mawes, known for its ancient castle and panoramic coastal walks. Delve into the fishing village charm of Mevagissey, where narrow streets reveal tales of its seafaring past, and conclude your journey in the historic harbor town of Fowey, where literary connections and stunning river views await. Join us as we uncover the treasures of Cornwall’s coastal gems on this enriching walking tour. Each day of the tour can be customized.
Great For
- Visiting Small Villages
- History
- Exploring Coastlines
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Cornwall

Take the train to Cornwall from London Paddington Station (5 hours). We recommend a morning train to arrive in Penzance by mid-afternoon. Once you arrive, you’ll be met by your guide, who will transfer you to the hotel.
Cornwall, the rugged southwestern tip of England, is a land of dramatic coastlines, golden beaches, and windswept moors steeped in myth and legend. Famous for its turquoise seas, quaint fishing villages, and rich Celtic heritage, Cornwall offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural depth. From the wild cliffs of Land’s End and the mystical aura of Tintagel Castle to the artistic hub of St. Ives and the world-renowned Eden Project, this captivating region is both a haven for outdoor adventure and a treasure trove of history and tradition.

Meals
None
Lodging
Chy-an-Mor Penzance
Day 2 Cornwall

Your journey begins in the heart of Cornwall, where your guide will greet you at the charming B&B and help you get settled in. Your guide will give you an orientation where you get a sense of the adventure ahead.
This afternoon, you can do an optional walk toward the coastal village of Marazion, where sweeping views across Mount’s Bay offer your first glimpse of the region’s wild beauty. Just offshore lies the iconic St. Michael’s Mount, a storied tidal island that has inspired myths for centuries.
Depending on the tides, you’ll either walk the ancient stone causeway or hop aboard a small boat to reach the island. Once ashore, you’ll explore the medieval castle perched high above the sea, its halls filled with history, its ramparts offering panoramic views. Take time to stroll through the island’s subtropical gardens or wander the quiet lanes of the harbor village before you return to the mainland.
This evening, unwind at your B&B and rest up, as your Cornwall adventure is just beginning.
Walking: 4 miles
Difficulty: Easy, flat terrain

Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Chy-an-Mor Penzance
Day 3 Carbis Bay to St. Ives

After breakfast, you’ll set out on foot along the South West Coast Path, tracing the stunning shoreline from Carbis Bay to St. Ives. This scenic walk offers sweeping views of golden sands, blue waters, and wildflower-lined cliffs.
Arriving at the seaside town of St. Ives, you’ll pause for an optional light lunch before the afternoon opens up for self-guided exploration. You might lose yourself in the town’s winding cobbled streets, pop into a tucked-away gallery, or browse local artisan shops for one-of-a-kind finds.
Art lovers can delve into the world of British modernism at the renowned Tate St. Ives or explore the intimate Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, an inspiring space that weaves together nature and sculpture in the very home where the artist lived and worked.
If you prefer to soak in the scenery, find your spot on Porthmeor Beach or linger at the harbor, watching boats sway with the tide.
Later, you’ll take a scenic train ride back to Penzance, letting the coastline roll by as the day winds down.
Walking: 5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Chy-an-Mor Penzance
Day 4 Land’s End to Porthcurno

This morning begins with a journey to one of Cornwall’s most remarkable landmarks: Land’s End. Standing at the westernmost tip of mainland Britain, you’ll experience the vastness of the horizon, where land meets sea in a dramatic display.
From this legendary point, we follow the rugged coastline to Porthcurno, pausing at the Minack Theatre. Perched high above the waves and hand-carved into the granite cliffs, this open-air amphitheater is a marvel of creativity and natural beauty.
In Porthcurno, we delve into a story of global connection. The Telegraph Museum offers a captivating look into the area’s history as a hub for the world’s first undersea telegraph cables, transforming this quiet coastal village into a vital node of international communication.
In the afternoon, you may choose to venture further to Treen or St. Buryan for more coastal scenery and village charm. You’ll then return to our accommodations.
Walking: 6 miles
Difficulty: Challenging terrain

Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Chy-an-Mor Penzance
Day 5 Penzance to Falmouth

After breakfast, you’ll journey deeper into Cornwall’s layered landscapes and literary past, beginning with a transfer to Helford Passage, a peaceful riverside hamlet tucked along the Helford River. Surrounded by serene waters and woodland, this enchanting spot once inspired author Daphne du Maurier’s Frenchman’s Creek, a tale of romance and rebellion set in these very coves.
From here, you’ll set off on foot along a picturesque stretch of the South West Coast Path. The trail winds through ancient woodlands and along sheltered creeks, with glimpses of the river opening into the sea. Along the way, you’ll stop at Trebah Garden, a subtropical wonderland bursting with color and life. Meander past giant tree ferns, towering palms, and hidden pathways that lead to a secluded beach, where lush greenery meets the open coast.
By early afternoon, you’ll arrive in Falmouth, a lively harbor town rich with maritime heritage. There’s time for an optional lunch and exploration, perhaps a visit to the National Maritime Museum or a stroll through the town’s eclectic shops and galleries.
You’ll end the day with a gentle walk to the hotel. Check in, settle in, and enjoy the slower rhythm of coastal Cornwall.
Walking: 5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
The Greenbank Hotel
Day 6 Flushing to Restronguet Passage via Mylor

After a leisurely breakfast, you’ll begin the day with a short walk to the quay, where you’ll board a foot ferry across the water to the charming village of Flushing. This peaceful crossing sets the tone for a day shaped by gentle movement, waterside views, and the rhythms of life along Cornwall’s quieter paths.
From Flushing, you’ll follow a scenic route to Mylor Harbour, where sailboats bob in the breeze and sea air carries the scent of salt and wildflowers. Here, there’s an option to pause for lunch, perhaps enjoying fresh seafood with a harbor view.
In the afternoon, your walk continues from the historic church at Mylor Churchtown, winding inland through Mylor Bridge and onward to Restronguet Passage. These tucked-away villages and quiet inlets offer a more intimate glimpse of Cornwall’s coastal life, where woodland trails meet tidal creeks, and every step is steeped in quiet beauty.
Walking: 4 miles
Difficulty: Easy, flat terrain

Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
The Greenbank Hotel
Day 7 Falmouth to St. Mawes via St. Anthony’s Head

This morning, you’ll depart Falmouth by foot or shuttle to catch the ferry across the Fal Estuary. Gliding over calm waters, you’ll arrive in the picturesque harbor town of St. Mawes.
Before continuing our journey, you’ll explore the impressive St. Mawes Castle. Built by Henry VIII, this remarkably well-preserved Tudor fortress stands watch over the estuary, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into England’s coastal defenses of the past.
From here, you board the Place Ferry for a short crossing to St Anthony’s Head, where the land opens into a dramatic headland trail. Our circular walk reveals windswept cliffs, sweeping sea views, and the historic beacon of St Anthony’s Lighthouse, guiding mariners since the 1800s.
After the walk, you return to St. Mawes, where you’ll have time to savor lunch at a cozy waterside café, soaking in the rhythms of village life. In the afternoon, your guide will lead a gentle stroll around the St. Mawes loop, a quiet meander through flower-lined lanes and along the serene waterfront, before you ferry back to Falmouth.
Each step today brings you closer to the coast’s quiet stories and beauty.
Walking: 5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
The Greenbank Hotel
Day 8 Mevagissey to Gorran Haven

This morning begins with a short transfer to the historic village of Gorran Churchtown. From here, you’ll set out on foot toward Mevagissey, a charming fishing port where narrow lanes lead to a colorful harbor, and the scent of sea air mingles with fresh catch and salt spray. There’s time to explore and, if you’d like, pause for lunch in one of the village’s inviting cafés.
From Mevagissey, you’ll venture to one of Cornwall’s most enchanting wonders, The Lost Gardens of Heligan. Once reclaimed from decades of overgrowth, these extraordinary gardens are now a living mosaic of history and beauty. Stroll through the lush foliage, where towering ferns and tropical plants thrive, and discover Victorian greenhouses, ancient woodland paths, and whimsical sculptures like the Mud Maid and Giant’s Head, hidden among the greenery.
Later, you have the option to return by shuttle to our accommodations in Charlestown, where you can relax and enjoy the evening at your own pace.
Walking: 4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
The Rashleigh Arms
Day 9 Fowey via Gribben Head

After a short transfer to Menabilly Farm, our journey begins with a walk towards Fowey via Gribben Head, tracing the path once taken by Daphne Du Maurier.
From this setting, we walk toward Fowey along the stunning Gribben Head peninsula. The trail offers sweeping sea views, green headlands, and quiet moments of reflection along the path of one of Cornwall’s most celebrated authors.
In Fowey, enjoy free time for lunch and exploration—perhaps strolling the waterside, visiting local bookshops, or simply soaking in the harbor’s gentle charm. For those seeking more adventure, there’s an option to take the foot ferry across the estuary to Polruan, a peaceful village with cobbled lanes and timeless appeal.
We return to Charlestown in the late afternoon, with time to unwind and enjoy the final evening of the journey.
Walking: 5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
The Rashleigh Arms
Day 10 Departure

After a leisurely morning, your guide will transfer you to St. Austell Train Station to return to London.

Meals
Breakfast
Dates & Price
Dates
Custom & private on your dates. Contact an Adventure Specialist to create your dream trip! Schedule a call or tell us more about your dream trip!
Best Time of Year to Visit
Welcome to a captivating journey through Cornwall, an English county steeped in history and natural beauty. Begin your exploration in the picturesque Carbis Bay, renowned for its azure waters and golden sands, before venturing to the vibrant seaside town of St. Ives, celebrated for its artistic community and stunning coastal vistas. Continue along the rugged coastline to Porthcurno, home to the iconic Minack Theatre and breathtaking cliffs. Explore the maritime heritage of Penzance, where charming streets are intertwined with tales of pirates and smugglers. Traverse south to Falmouth, a bustling port city brimming with maritime history and vibrant culture. Wander through the quaint village of Flushing, with its colorful houses and serene harbor views, before arriving in St. Mawes, known for its ancient castle and panoramic coastal walks. Delve into the fishing village charm of Mevagissey, where narrow streets reveal tales of its seafaring past, and conclude your journey in the historic harbor town of Fowey, where literary connections and stunning river views await. Join us as we uncover the treasures of Cornwall’s coastal gems on this enriching walking tour. Each day of the tour can be customized.
What’s included:
- All accommodation as indicated on the itinerary
- All breakfasts
- Guest snacks & drinks (during the day)
- Train from St. Ives to Penzance (return)
- Bus from Penzance to Lands’ End (return)
- Ferries
- Falmouth to Flushing (return)
- Falmouth to St. Mawes (return)
- St. Anthony (return)
- Polruan to Fowey (return)
- Activities
- Entry to Lost Gardens of Heligan
- Entry to St. Mawes Castle
- Entry to Trebah Garden
- Entry to the Telegraph Museum
- Entry to Minack Theatre
- Guides
- Guides for walking tours.
- Guide fees (we recommend additional tip of $100 – $150 per person per guide)
- 3x meals with guests
- Transportation
- Active England vehicle
Need to Know
Please note that this trip operates under Journeys International’s standard Terms & Conditions except for differences noted below. Please review the complete Terms & Conditions, but also note the following exceptions for trips to Mongolia. Anything not described here is governed by the standard Terms & Conditions.
Deposit Payments:
We will confirm your reservations once we receive a non-refundable booking deposit of 25% per person, along with the standard Journeys International Reservation Form acknowledged digitally by each person responsible for payment, and a Traveler Information Form acknowledged digitally by each participating adult or the guardian for each participating child, and if space is available. All trips to England require a deposit prior to confirmation.
Final Payments:
Full and final payment for your trip will be due 90 days before departure.
Cancellations & Refunds:
If you must cancel before your program begins, please notify Journeys International in writing by emailing info@journeysinternational.com or writing to your adventure specialist directly. You may request a refund according to the following schedule. Some lodging accommodations require additional non-refundable payments beyond this schedule. In the case of cancellation, such amounts are withheld in addition to the amounts listed here.
| Days Prior to Departure | Cancellation Penalty |
|---|---|
| 101 or more | Non-refundable booking deposit and planning fee, if applicable |
| 76-100 | Non-refundable booking deposit and planning fee, if applicable, plus 50% of total land costs above amount of initial deposit |
| 51-75 | Non-refundable booking deposit and planning fee, if applicable, plus 70% of total land costs above amount of initial deposit |
| 0-50 | 100% of total land costs |
Travel Insurance:
Journeys International strongly recommends that you purchase a Travel Protection Plan, or travel insurance, sufficient to protect your investment in travel, personal assets, and health during your program. Doing so will mitigate a significant amount of financial risk and decrease your need to worry about things beyond your control. We do not require you to purchase such travel insurance; however, we know many travelers who have benefited from purchasing travel insurance because the insurance carrier assumed risks that would otherwise have been the risk of traveler. Travel Protection Plans often cover things like theft, baggage loss, trip interruption or cancellation, emergency evacuation, emergency medical treatment, flight delay or cancellation, airline or service provider bankruptcy, jury duty, personal or family sickness leading to cancellation, U.S. Department of State Travel Warnings about terrorism issued for the destination, and other risks as described in the insurance policy. In particular, consider the availability of higher-cost “Cancel for Any Reason” and/or “Interrupt for Any Reason” policies that may allow policy-holders to recoup a significant portion of trip costs under a much wider range of circumstances than standard policies may allow; we have seen travelers benefit from this selection when public health crises, personal turmoil, and civil unrest arose in their destinations. Please note that while we at Journeys will do our best to help you have a pleasant and successful experience, Journeys International assumes no liability for many of the types of losses described above. If you choose not to purchase travel insurance and you suffer a loss, then you will be responsible for the associated costs.
For your convenience, we will provide a recommendation for an insurance carrier that offers competitive rates and has proven reliable, fair, and prompt in responding to claims, but we can offer no guarantee that our recommended carrier will meet your needs and you are welcome to contact any insurance carrier that you prefer. It is important to obtain insurance immediately upon signing up for your program in order for problems arising from pre-existing conditions to be covered.
All participants must be covered by a current major medical insurance policy that covers you while in your travel destination for the duration of their trip. For some individuals or for some destinations, it may be advisable to purchase a supplemental policy. Contact your provider for coverage details.
Physical Requirements:
This tour is physically active, with varying levels of demands and fitness requirements depending on the specific itinerary. By signing this agreement, you represent that you do not have any physical or other conditions that would create a hazard for you, any Co-Travellers, or affect other people’s enjoyment of the tour. If you have a physical condition that will require special attention during the tour, you must inform us in writing when the booking is made, and we shall advise you whether the tour is suitable for you or not. We may require a medical certificate if you have a special condition. We reserve the right in our sole discretion to accept, decline, or remove anyone from a tour (at departure or during the tour) who we judge to be incapable of meeting the tour’s physical demands.
Duration 9 Days
The number of days, or duration, in a destination corresponds with the itinerary as published. This is the time period covered by the land cost.
Comfort Level
Superior
Charming Hotels, Guesthouses and Bed & Breakfasts
Activity Level
Challenging
Moderate to Challenging Hiking
Activity Level
Match the trip’s intensity to your ability and motivation.
Gentle
Easy walking, with opportunities for low-key physical activity.
Active
Energetic exploration with optional day hikes, leisurely cycling, or light canoeing.
Vigorous
Day-long active excursions and options for demanding activity in varied environments.
Challenging
Strenuous hiking or other intense activity that may be at high altitude or over rough terrain.
Demanding
Multi-day trekking and other activities requiring endurance or strength. Steep trails. No technical expertise necessary.
Comfort Level
Choose accommodations and amenities that fit your personal style
Simple
Our most natural accommodations. Bath facilities often shared, sometimes rustic.
Delightful
Comfortable and especially personal. Small to mid-sized lodges, typically with private bath.
Superior
Lodges and hotels with additional amenities, refined artistry, or extra-special settings.
Deluxe
Exclusive or luxury lodges, hotels, or safari camps with fine dining options.
Uncommon
The most indulgent accommodations arranged specially for private trips.











