Five hidden places in Cornwall tourists can visit without the crowds
It is hard to avoid the hoards of tourists flocking to Cornwall during the summer months but the secret is to look for the hidden gems.
The five hidden, beautiful gems in Cornwall.
When it comes to the quintessential UK staycation, many might think of the charming villages of the Cotswolds or the sophisticated cityscape of Edinburgh - but Cornwall seems to hold a special place in the hearts of Brits.
St Ives and the bustling city of Truro have long been a favourite for holidaymakers.
However, sometimes its popularity can be its downfall, as parts of the county can become incredibly busy during the summer months, with locals and tourists battling for parking spaces and hotel rooms.
The answer in avoiding the crowds lies in discovering the lesser-known parts of Cornwall. While it may seem daunting in such a tourist hotspot, if you know where to look, tranquillity can be found.
Here are five hidden gems in Cornwall:
Frenchman's Creek, a picturesque spot on the Helford River near the village of Helford, is known for its wide river that allows for kayaking and small boat trips. A popular three-mile walk through woodland and farmland leads to a hilltop with stunning views over the creek.
Cawsand and Kingsand, twin villages in southeast Cornwall, are nestled in the secluded Rame Peninsula, also referred to as Cornwall's 'forgotten corner'. This officially designated area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB) remains relatively untouched due to its remote location, offering a tranquil escape from the typical Cornish summer crowds.
These villages epitomise Cornish charm, with narrow streets lined with fishing cottages leading to quaint 'village beaches'. While they may attract day-trippers from Devon over the weekends, these villages remain largely undiscovered gems off Cornwall's well-trodden path.
Lantic Bay, nestled between the towns of Fowey and Polperro on Cornwall's southern coast, is a hidden gem. Despite its reputation for stunning scenery - think lush green hills, golden sands, and turquoise waters - it's rarely overrun with tourists.
However, it's not the easiest place to reach, with steep and sometimes uneven paths leading down to the beach.
Roche Rock, located near the town of Roche in the heart of Cornwall's china clay country, is another must-visit. This 20-metre-high rocky outcrop is topped with a supposedly haunted 15th-century chapel dedicated to St Michael.
The chapel, which seems to rise straight out of the granite landscape, has been home to hermits over the centuries and continues to be the subject of local folklore.