From quiet woodland trails to beautiful coastline and rugged moors, there are no shortage of fabulously wild places to go and explore in Cornwall on your next visit. Whether you fancy an epic day out along the South West Coast Path, or just short walk with the dog and a pub at the end of it, there are countless options (and we always have walking maps and advice here at the hotel). However, if we had to pick just a handful of the best places to go walking and take in some beautiful scenery this spring, the following would be high on our list:

Kilminorth Woods

Image titleAncient oaks and meandering paths at Kilminorth (Image: Wikimedia Commons/ Photographer: Nilfanion).

This ancient woodland setting has meandering, well-maintained paths, wildlife galore and easy to follow paths. Besides classic oaks, you will also find lovely views of the East Looe River and a variety of wildlife from rare moths to roe deer. It is also a good spot for birdwatching and those armed with binoculars will find various seasonal guests on the saltmarshes. 

As locals will tell you, these woods are a rather special place. For anyone curious to find out more there is a special Wood Watch Walk on the second Sunday each month where you can find out more about the area. See the Friends of Kilminorth Woods Website for more information, including a handy map with access points, parking and two featured walks. Dogs are allowed, but please be mindful that the site is a nature reserve and pets may need to be kept on a lead in sensitive areas.

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Hendersick & Talland Bay Circular Walk

For one of the best short walks right on our doorstep, the so called “Hendersick and Talland Bay Loop” takes in some lovely scenery from both countryside and along the glorious South West Coast Path. It is a fantastically craggy stretch of shoreline and there are great views of Looe Island too. It is also a dog friendly walk, with several nice vantage points to press pause and take in the view. Allow at least a couple of hours for the route (you will want to stop and admire the scenery!). Click here for a route map and further notes from the National Trust.

Image title                       The view out to Looe Island from Hendersick (Image: Wikimedia Commons/ Martin Bodman)

Golitha Falls & Siblyback Lake

The potent mix of wild and manmade mystery always make Bodmin Moor a wonderful place to escape. The visitor can find no shortage of wide open space to roam, not to mention some spectacular ancient heritage sites. For a site of natural wonder not far from the moor’s southern edge, Golitha Falls are a lovely place to visit, stroll or even dip your feet in the sparkling waters of the River Fowey.

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Should you wish for more exertion though, Siblyback Lake is just a little further away and can be explored in the same swoop. It is a great spot for a paddle for any keen kayaker, while it also boasts some cracking fly fishing for rainbow trout. Or, should you just want to stretch your legs further, there is a path all the way round making a great circular walk of around three miles. You can also walk your dog on most of Bodmin Moor; but do be vigilant and keep your pet on a lead wherever there are livestock.

Image titleSiblyback has a range of activities and a fine circular walk for the Bodmin Moor visitor (Image: Siblyback Lake Facebook page)

Idyllic Walking Breaks on the Cornish Coast

For the perfect coastal escape, Talland Bay Hotel makes for a breathtaking setting. Our stunning location is matched by award-winning food and the finest in Cornish hospitality, not to mention a huge range of delightful locations to explore both locally and further afield. We also offer dog-friendly and self-catering accommodation options. Keep an eye on our Facebook Page and offers section for current news and some excellent deals on luxury breaks including our three nights for two offer