One of the nicest things about staying in St Ives is that you don’t have to go far to feel like you’ve escaped.
Some walks are only half an hour. Others can fill an afternoon. But all of them remind you why people fall in love with this coastline.
Here are three routes for any pace, from a gentle headland loop to a proper half day on the coast path.
The three routes
1. Around the Island
Some walks are worth repeating, and this is one of them.
Head around the Island, watch the surfers below Porthmeor, then have a wander back through the harbour. This walk isn’t about getting anywhere; it is simply the nicest way to spend half an hour.
The early mornings are wonderfully quiet, while the evenings often end with one of those sunsets that make everyone stop and stare.
2. Carbis Bay
Follow the coast path out of St Ives, keeping the sea on your right.
The path rises and falls gently above the railway, with uninterrupted views across St Ives Bay. Before long you’ll arrive at Carbis Bay, where the water is calmer and a quieter beach makes it an ideal place to stop for a coffee, an ice cream and even a swim on warmer days.
3. Towards Zennor
Beyond St Ives, the coastline takes on a different character.
Once you leave St Ives behind, the crowds disappear. The cliffs become wilder, the paths rougher and the only sounds are the waves, the wind and the occasional gull overhead.
By the time you reach Zennor, you’ll feel as though you’ve travelled much further than a few miles. Then for lunch at the Tinners Arms; it will never have tasted better.
The best souvenir from St Ives is a pair of tired legs and a head full of sea air.
Hidden, St Ives
The coast path is well maintained, but it’s always worth being prepared.
Comfortable shoes, a waterproof and plenty of water will cover most days. If you’re planning to wander onto the beaches, check the tide times before you set off. Then all that’s left to do is enjoy the walk.
