Tear yourself away from the famous harbour and stunning village to explore what lies beyond Port Isaac, where a string of potential day trips invite you to seek out North Cornwall’s bounty of other beautiful sights.
Conveniently located on the coast between the Camel Estuary and Tintagel, Port Isaac’s position lends itself perfectly to the keen day-tripper.
Whether you wish to sample a variety of scenes or simply step out for a day’s exploration, there’s a destination to match all time frames and personal agendas.
Padstow
Westward toward Newquay, Padstow stakes claim to a particularly pretty location on the Camel Estuary, affording visitors everything from fabulously fresh seafood and fine dining to an array of watersports and, of course, beaches of the most-coveted kind.
Sample Rick Stein’s world-renowned gastronomy, discover your pedalling power during a stint on the Camel Trail or simply meander the streets for a spot of shopping and secluded-cove-hunting.
Rock
Also accessible by ferry from Padstow across the estuary, Rock’s tendency to attract a wealthier crowd means that is often associated with royalty and film stars, but still being quintessentially Cornish (stunning and on-the-sea, that is) – means that it’s a destination for all.
Especially ideal for those desiring a more escapist vibe, it’s littered with miles of exotic-looking coastline and is something of a boater’s bliss.
Peruse the shops and deli’s (especially Malcolm Barnecutt’s) and treat yourself to a meal at one of Rock’s fine establishments – try Outlaw’s or The Dining Room – before sprawling yourself on the sands, taking a leisurely sailing trip around the coast or indulging in a round of golf at St Enodoc.
Polzeath
A stunning and renowned surfers’ spot, Polzeath presents a picturesque village flanked by pristine ocean and a bevy of top-notch facilities and gorgeous natural spaces designed to accommodate all holidaymakers including watersport enthusiasts, walkers, mountain bikers and (if you’re anything like me-) loafers.
Sign up for some supremely special pamper time at St Moritz Hotel’s spectacular, Cowshed Spa; stroll the South West Coast Path and discover Poet Laureate Sir John Betjeman’s grave; satisfy your inner adrenaline junkie with a stint of coasteering, climbing or wild swimming or simply enjoy the beach and its uber laid-back lifestyle.
Daymer Bay
A day trip to dog friendly, Daymer Bay will treat you to unspoilt scenery, flat golden sands and the type of beach experience that will linger in your memory a long time after the tan fades and rubber rings have been deflated.
It’s especially suited to families due to its relatively safe and sheltered conditions, while the neighbouring, Broadagogue Cove offers ample rock pooling and a pretty scattering of cowrie shells.
Tintagel
Venturing eastward from Port Isaac and beyond Port Gaverne, you’ll encounter the famous King Arthur country and Cornish legend epicentre of Tintagel.
If you only do one thing while here, it has to be a visit to Tintagel Castle (and Merlin’s Cave) – if not for the intriguing Arthurian/Roman history – for the spellbinding Atlantic sea views and wonderfully craggy coastal landscape.
Add to the historical intrigue by scheduling a stop-off at The Arthurian Centre, which surrounds what some claim to be King Arthur’s Stone with 20 acres of nature and discovery trails, gardens, battlefield and the Centre itself – where exhibitions, a children’s quiz, play castle and gift shop are all located.
Coastal walks are another sensory pleasure, affording sweeping vistas of North Cornwall’s dramatic seascapes while leading you to beautiful beaches such as family favourite, Trebarwith Strand.
Have a look at our holiday cottages in Port Isaac >
Tags: Daymer Bay | Padstow | Polzeath | Port Isaac | Rock | Tintagel |