For those seeking somewhere to sit, stroll, picnic or simply swoon at the view, Newquay provides an endless and exquisite array of options.
But beyond the famous Fistral Beach and sprawling sands fringing the town itself, Newquay boasts a plethora of other, more off-radar beauty spots that are equally as enchanting, if not more so.
Some require a bit of off-the-beaten track exploration, but once you get there, the ramble will be well worth the awe-inspiring and far-less-populated result.
Here are just a few of Newquay’s best beauty spots…
Polly Joke
Concealed between Crantock and Holywell Bay, the small sandy cove sits a mere 5 miles outside of Newquay past West Pentire, but yet offers a wonderfully wild diversion from the town’s bustle.
The sheltered northwest facing beach is home to caves, a stream and rock pools, but no facilities – so be sure to stock up on provisions before rambling across fields of wildflowers and a few craggy paths along the scenic valley to get there.
Colan Woods
Prime dog (and child!) walking territory, the woodlands lie outside the village of Colan just three miles outside of town (and behind Porth Reservoir), transporting visitors to Lord of The Rings style scenery and a true sense of rural escapism.
You may also stumble across the crumbling remains of 19th century Fir Hill manor house, which has remained unclaimed and in disrepair by various members of American owners, the Figg-Hoblyns, but recent developments indicate their plan to reputedly to convert the estate into a campsite.
Bedruthan Steps
Venture further east for one of the area’s most magical sites: Bedruthan Steps. Located past Watergate Bay toward Padstow, the striking sea stacks are the stuff of ancient legend and were widely believed to be stepping-stones for the giant, Bedruthan.
It’s not the most accessible beach (and all-but disappears with the tide, so beware), but for those agile enough to make it to the shoreline, the sense of freedom and space alone is reward enough. Refresh before or after your cliff scramble at the National Trust café (in the car park above), or walk along the majestic coast path to imbibe those soul-stirring vistas of one of Newquay’s most memorable seascapes.
Porth Reservoir
Presenting forty acres of unspoilt beauty, Porth Reservoir is undeniably an angling hotspot. Here you’ll find skimmers, perch and roach, or – for visitors less inclined to cast off – oodles of quiet spaces to roam and relax.
Part of the South West Lakes Trust, the mature coarse fishery and designated bird sanctuary (with recently installed bird hides) oozes country charm, whether you fancy landing something special or taking the kids for a walk (complete with various paths and a nature trail), cycle (it sits on Sustrans route 32) or picnic amongst the uber picturesque, suntrap surrounds.
Pentire Headland
For one of Newquay’s best vantage points and panoramic views of the area’s coastline, an amble to Pentire presents picture postcard views of Crantock to the west, and Fistral to the east.
Accommodating all types of walkers and visitors, you can take a mini ramble along the coast path to blow away the cobwebs before enjoying a coffee complete with more to-die-for sea views at nearby, Lewinnick Lodge; or you can round the headland to spy all the sights: from Huer’s Hut and sprawling environs of Fistral to the surrounding Atlantic expanses and exotic, River Gannel.
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Tags: Beaches | Dogs | Family | Newquay | North Cornwall | Walking | Wildlife |