8 Days & 7 Nights

4.4

Highlights of Cornwall in Comfort

Stay in comfortable harbor hotels and charming waterside inns
Hike the best bits of the South West Coast Path, England's longest National Trail
Visit Land's End, mainland UK's most westerly point
Explore St. Michael's Mount, the tidal island steeped in legend and beauty
Visit the Cornish seaside filming locations of TV’s Poldark & Doc Martin

Experience the very best of Cornwall on this self-guided hiking adventure with Macs Adventure. Discover the region’s cinematic landscapes, secret coves, rich history and picturesque fishing villages steeped in legendary tales of seafarers and pirates! Offering a slice of coastal England charm that feels worlds away, this self-guided hiking tour invites you to stay in hand-picked waterfront hotels and charming inns, ensuring your journey is as comfortable as it is unforgettable. Begin in Padstow, the perfect introduction to Cornwall, a quaint bustling harbor town and renowned foodie hotspot! Venture out to the dramatic headland of Stepper Point or Trevose Head. Visit Prideaux Place, a 400-year-old Elizabethan manor, or take it easy and simply relax at one of celebrity chef and travel writer Rick Stein's famous seafood restaurants. Next, your journey heads south to St Ives, where you have time to spend exploring this artistic haven. Unwind on its golden beaches or wander through its quaint shops, hidden lanes, and world-class exhibitions. From St. Ives, lace up your boots and hike the most iconic sections of England’s South West Coast Path, passing the popular landmark of Land’s End, mainland UK’s most westerly point! Your Cornish escapade ends on the iconic tidal island of St. Michael’s Mount, ideally with a traditional English afternoon tea! And don’t forget— Cornish tradition dictates it's jam first, then clotted cream!

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Itinerary

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Day 1 Arrive in Padstow and overnight

An included taxi transfer will collect you from Bodmin Parkway train station and drop you off at your accommodation in Padstow. Padstow is a vibrant harbor town, full of charm, and will be your home for the next two nights. Set at the mouth of the Camel River Estuary where land meets sea, Padstow is surrounded by captivating natural scenery.

After settling into your centrally located B&B, why not explore one of the local pubs for a hearty meal and a pint of local beer to prepare you for your hike tomorrow? If you’re in the mood for something special, you can dine at one of celebrity chef Rick Stein’s 5 renowned Padstow restaurants. Or if time allows, head just north to quaint Port Isaac to take in the filming locations of TV's beloved series Doc Martin.

Overnight Padstow

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

The Seafood Restaurant & Rooms | Hotel

You will be staying in one of their 16 rooms at their flagship seafood restaurant and you will enjoy picturesque views over the harbour and camel estuary. You will find complimentary Molton Brown toiletries, bathrooms, complimentary tea and coffee making facilities, a mini bar and hair dryer in your room, there is also a laundry and dry-cleaning service.

St Petroc's Hotel | Hotel

With low wooden beams, winding stairs and cosy fireplaces you will be charmed by St Petroc’s Hotel in the heart of Padstow. Rooms are individually furnished and have all the amenities you require for a lovely overnights stay. Breakfast is served in the bistro with choices such as smoked salmon and scrambled eggs, or a classic English breakfast. A continental breakfast can be served in your room.

Padstow Harbour Hotel | Hotel

The Padstow Harbour Hotel in Padstow, with its superb views, striking architecture and award-winning restaurant, continues to hold pride of place in Padstow. Recently renovated, this Victorian boutique property has everything that you would require for a most comfortable stay in style.

Day 2 Choice of Padstow Circular Walk 6 miles / 10 km

You have three choices of hikes today while staying in Padstow. If you arrive early or want to add an extra night, you can opt to do the others.

Option 1: Padstow, Stepper Point and Prideaux Place Loop - 10km (6 miles) - Ascent: +190m (615ft) / Descent: -160m (525 ft)

Set out upon the iconic South West Coast Path as it winds through to the headland of Stepper Point. Stepper Point has a famous pillar and is the location of a National Coastwatch station - pop in and say hello to the staff! This scenic hike also offers a delightful detour to Prideaux Place, a magnificent Elizabethan manor known for its beautiful deer park and it's appearances in the beloved film adaptations of Rosamunde Pilcher's novels.

Option 2: Rock Circular - 11.5km (7 miles) - Ascent: +60m (200ft) / Descent: -65m (205ft)

Start in the village of Rock, which takes its name from the Blue Elvan rock quarried nearby. This village has also been named “Britain’s Saint Tropez” due to its popularity as a getaway for the rich and famous, including Prince Harry, the Rothschilds and actor Hugh Grant. This easy-going hike follows the coastal path along the tops of the dunes towards the mouth of the Camel River. As it turns inland, you'll pass the historic and beautifully situated St Enodoc Church, a 12th-century medieval gem. Continue to Pityme, where a classic English pub lunch awaits, offering the perfect spot to unwind with a crisp Cornish lager and some freshly caught seafood.

Option 3: Pentire Head and "The Rumps" 18km (11 miles) - Ascent: +200m (655ft) / Descent: -200m (655ft)

Alternatively, set out along the cliff-tops towards Pentire Head and 'The Rumps,' looping back to Polzeath before retracing your steps to Padstow. This route follows the rugged contours of the coastline, where each bend unveils another mesmerizing Cornish vista. Rocky islands rise from the vast, shimmering blue sea, while hidden bays and sapphire-clear inlets lie beneath the cliffs. Towering rock columns and natural cliff arches are enduring testaments to the relentless power of the ocean.

Overnight Padstow

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

The Seafood Restaurant & Rooms | Hotel

St Petroc's Hotel | Hotel

Padstow Harbour Hotel | Hotel

Day 3 Transfer to St Ives. Free Day to explore St Ives

After a scenic one-hour transfer, you'll arrive in the vibrant artistic haven of St Ives, where golden beaches and cobbled streets invite you to explore at your own pace. Relax and soak up the sun at Porthmeor Beach, browse the charming boutique shops tucked along the town’s winding lanes, or enjoy fresh seafood at the bustling harbor while watching for playful seals. For those with a creative side, why not immerse yourself in contemporary works at Tate St Ives or wander through the peaceful sculpture gardens at the Barbara Hepworth Museum?

Overnight St Ives

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Boskerris Hotel | Hotel

The Boskerris is a contemporary, boutique hotel with a relaxed Mediterranean style. The hotel has fifteen stylish bedrooms, most with outstanding panoramic ocean views. The hotel is nestled in the Cornish coastline, on the edge of St Ives. Discreetly set in one and a half acres in a unique position, with the decked terrace being the perfect vantage point to admire the views across St Ives Bay from Godrevy Lighthouse to St Ives harbour.

Pedn Olva | Hotel

The Pedn Olva, with the sea only thirty feet below and flanked by golden sands, is founded on blue-black granite rocks on the southern shores of St. Ives Harbour and Bay. Each bedroom at the Pedn Olva has stunning views of St Ives and the Cornish coast – light, airy and contemporarily decorated – they have everything you need for a relaxing, memorable and comfortable stay.

Tregenna Castle Resort | Hotel

Within 72 acres of private grounds, this Tregenna Castle Resort overlooks St Ives and the Cornish coast. You can enjoy 2 on-site restaurants, offering fine food and drink. Meals are made from local ingredients and are cooked fresh to order. Wireless internet is free, and there is free parking on site.

Day 4 Free day to explore St Ives or optional walk to Zennor 6 miles / 10 km

St Ives is a great spot to spend a day and has something for everyone. Continue your exploration of the town’s shops, galleries and beaches, take a boat trip out to Seal Island, or perhaps book yourself a roundtrip journey on the scenic St Ives Railway.

For those looking to stretch their legs, there is a wonderful section on the South West Coast Path that takes you to the small village of Zennor. This section is trickier underfoot with some short and steep ascents and descents, but is worth it for the stunning headland and coastal views. Zennor is a small village that is a 10-15-minute detour inland from the coast. Post-hike drinks are in order at the local village pub, before catching a local bus back to St Ives.

Ascent: +290m (+945ft) / Descent: -190m (-615ft)

Overnight St Ives

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Boskerris Hotel | Hotel

Pedn Olva | Hotel

Tregenna Castle Resort | Hotel

Day 5 Transfer to Cape Cornwall. Walk Cape Cornwall to Sennen Cove 5.5 miles / 9 km

A morning transfer takes you to Cape Cornwall, often regarded by locals as the true "Land’s End" for its unspoiled beauty—just rugged Cornish headland and the wild Atlantic. Beyond the cape, you'll spot the Brisons, a rock formation playfully nicknamed ‘Charles de Gaulle in the bath’—you’ll understand why when you see it!

From Cape Cornwall, enjoy a rewarding coastal hike to Sennen Cove, passing golden dunes on the way to Whitesands Bay. The route offers honey-hued cliffs and the chance to spot dolphins, a common sight in these waters. You can stick to the dunes or take a stroll along the beach, ending in the charming village of Sennen Cove.

Ascent: +180m (+590ft) / Descent: -325m (-1065ft)

Alternatively, for the more experienced hiker, we can arrange the transfer to drop you at Pendeen Lighthouse, slightly earlier on the trail path, letting you pass some of Cornwall's mining heritage sites before reaching Cape Cornwall. Hiking this extra section adds around 3.5 miles and approximately +275 feet of elevation. The terrain can be rugged and hard-going on the coast, so keep this in mind. Please let your Adventure specialist know what you'd prefer at the time of booking.

Overnight Sennen Cove

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

The Old Success Inn | Hotel

The Old Success Inn is a delightful 17th-century Fisherman's Inn. Over the years, The Old Success has been sympathetically modernised to improve its accommodation, restaurant and other facilities. It currently has a bar (it is one of West Cornwall's most popular pubs), a restaurant and a residents' lounge.

Land's End Hotel | Bed and breakfast

A true Land's End experience, this hotel has magnificent rooms, spectacular views and fine dining on the Cornish cliffside.

Sennen Rise | Bed and breakfast

The Fortress-like granite walled farmhouse has seen quite a number of changes in use over the past 160 years, from a working farmohouse to a meadery, later a restaurant and now a luxury guest house! The farmhouse has been upgraded with modern facilities and high-end finishes for your enjoyment.

Day 6 Walk Sennen Cove to Porthcurno via Land's End. Transfer to Penzance 6.5 miles / 10.5 km

Wonderful cliff-top hiking and reaching the official "Land’s End" location - Mainland UK's most south-westerly point. This is probably the most iconic spot on the South West Coast Path and because of this, it is a popular visitor attraction. As you're hiking to Land's End, we recommend arriving early and taking your time to explore its shops, visitor center and perhaps get your picture taken at the famous signpost. Heading onward, follow the path past many coves and cliffs to the spectacularly located Minack Theatre at Porthcurno Bay. It is perched on top of the cliffs overlooking the bay and from here the steps lead down to the beach and the village.

Ascent: +150m (+485ft) / Descent: -115m (-380ft)

Due to there being no suitable accommodations in Porthcurno, an included afternoon transfer will take you to Marazion.

Overnight Marazion

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

The Godolphin Arms | Hotel

The Godolphin Arms offers ten en suite bedrooms which are light, airy and generously proportioned with spacious en suite bathrooms. The majority of rooms have fantastic sea views and some have balconies facing the idyllic St Michael's Mount. Eating at The Godolphin Arms is a relaxed, friendly experience. With spectacular views from the first floor dining area and a stunning beachside terrace, you have a choice of eating areas with the same menu offered throughout.

Marazion Hotel | Hotel

Enjoy this relaxing hotel located in the heart of the beautiful town of Marazion. The rooms have views over St Michael's Mount and we are only one hundred yards from one of the safest and most fabulous Cornish beaches. The "Cutty Sark" is the fully licensed public bar serving local beers and wines. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner specialising in local produce. The "Coffee Lounge" overlooking the town square is somewhere to relax, watch the world go by and perhaps enjoy the freshly prepared coffee and homemade cakes.

Upper Deck | Bed and breakfast

The Upper Deck comprises the entire top floor of Britannia House, with lovely views of the sea over Mounts Bay. Spacious room with two arm chairs, TV/DVD tea and coffee making facilities & fridge. Full Cornish Breakfast served in your room between 0830 and 0930. En-suite bathroom with shower over bath.

Day 7 Free day to visit St Michael's Mount.

Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims across the tidal causeway to St Michael’s Mount, a prominent British landmark and the official end of the pilgrim's route St Michael’s Way. Thousands of years ago, this island was a busy port trading tin with Europe, and an abbey was built on top of the island and granted to the Benedictine monks from Mont St Michel in France. It's an amazing must-see visitor attraction in Cornwall and highly recommended.

Overnight Marazion

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

The Godolphin Arms | Hotel

Marazion Hotel | Hotel

Upper Deck | Bed and breakfast

Day 8 Onward Travel

Reviews

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Other Information

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Is it for me?

At Macs Adventure, we offer a range of tours including Classic, Slower Adventures, Pilgrimages, In Style, and Discovery. This Cornwall tour perfectly fits the Slower Adventure category, as we have taken the best bits of our most popular classic South West Coast Path itineraries (Padstow through to St Ives) and crafted them into a single tour with manageable walks and using our preferred comfortable accommodations. The tour is graded easy to moderate, with walks around 6 miles in length, leaving ample time for cultural exploration and sightseeing along the way.

Tour Type:

Slower Adventures | Where walking and cycling meet easy-going exploring, our Slower Adventures are the perfect combination. Most days are filled with picturesque journeys with some free time to dive into the destination and experience the people, local food and culture as you go.

Activity:

Multi Centre Walking | With a mix of loop and point-to-point walks stay 2 or 3 nights in one place which offers the chance to slow down and really explore a destination.

This trip is suitable for:

Solo Travellers

The minimum age for this tour is: 12 Years

Ideal if you have an interest in:

Foodie

Coastal Walking

National Parks

Activity Level & Terrain

The tour is rated easy to moderate. The terrain may be a bit rugged and tricky at times, with rocks and roots underfoot and some slippery sections. There are some elevation gains and losses, especially when hiking on the coastal paths as the trails follow cliffs and may go up and down to hike along beaches in between.

Accommodation & Meals Navigation What's Included

Included

6 nights in hand-picked Cornish boutique hotels
Breakfasts
Baggage transfer as per your itinerary
A detailed information pack, route notes and maps
Emergency telephone support from our office in the event of a problem

Excluded

Travel to the start or from the finish of the tour
Lunches, dinners, snacks and drinks
Personal Equipment
Taxi transfers or public transport should you need to skip a stage
Travel Insurance (strongly recommended)

Extras

Extra nights

When to go Travel & Transfers

Getting to the Start

Your tour begins in Padstow. Your tour includes a taxi transfer from Bodmin Parkway Railway Station to your first accommodation in Padstow. There are regular direct trains (approximately every 2 hours) that go from London Paddington Station to Bodmin Parkway. The journey time is approximately 3 hours and 45 mins.

For travelers arriving at London Heathrow, the Heathrow Express Bus offers a quick, direct route to London Paddington in just 15 minutes.

If you're arriving at London Gatwick, you can take the Gatwick Express Train to London Victoria Station (about 30 minutes), then transfer to the Victoria Line on the London Underground, which will take you to Paddington in around 20 minutes.

Padstow is also accessible from Newquay Airport. Flights arrive here from all over the UK.

Getting from the End

Your tour ends in Marazion. For your onward travel plans, take a short taxi (10 mins) or bus journey (20 mins) to Penzance train station. From Penzance train station, you likely want to take the train to London Paddington (6-8 hours journey). There are direct trains, but in some cases, you might need to connect via other major train stations, such as Reading or Bristol Temple Meads. When arriving in London, you can connect via rail, bus or airplane to most other major UK cities or transport hubs.

For those flying internationally, from London Paddington Station, you can easily connect to London Heathrow Airport via the Heathrow Express Bus, or if you're leaving from London Gatwick, you can take the London Underground eastbound to London Victoria Station (15 mins). From London Victoria Station, hop on the regular Gatwick Express Train directly to Gatwick Airport (30 mins).

Marazion is just under an hour by taxi or bus to Newquay Airport. Flights depart from here to all parts of the UK.

Luggage Transfer

Your bags will be transferred from your accommodation as per your itinerary and moved onto your next overnight accommodation. We ask you to limit your luggage to one bag of up to 18kg/40lbs per person.

At Macs Adventure, we work in partnership with many luggage transfer providers who set a limit on how many bags/suitcases they will transfer per person, and also the weight of the bag/suitcase. Your booking includes transfer of just 1 bag per person, up to 18kg/40lbs. It is very important that you read the luggage information specific to your tour before departure. If you do not adhere to these limits, there is a great possibility that you will be charged locally both for extra bags and/or if they are too heavy. This limitation can be a challenge, especially as airlines generally have limits that are higher. However, our luggage providers have reasons for these limits (usually due to the Health and Safety of their employees), which we must respect. If you need to add extra bags, you must do so through your Adventure Specialist in advance, at extra cost TBA.

Info & FAQ

Equipment

Hiking boots or shoes are a must, and hiking poles may be of benefit on the coastal paths. A full packing list is included in your confirmation documents.

Can I book extra nights? What personal equipment do I need for a self-guided walking holiday in Cornwall? What happens if I can't hike a stage? What is the best way to book train travel in England? How do luggage transfers work? Is this tour suitable for someone with vertigo? Why can't I start this tour on a Sunday?

South West Coast Path, Adventure Your Way

Join us on a walk from St Ives to Penzance on the South West Coast Path. This remote and exhilarating walk along the clifftops visits the bustling towns, golden sands and secluded coves of Cornwall.
Walking the South West Coast Path

The South West Path stretches around the south-west peninsula of England, exposing dramatic coastal scenery as the walk unfolds. The route is split into several delightful sections as walking the entire route at once would be rather time-consuming. This video gives you an overview of the route and how best to tackle it.

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