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Scarlet Secrets: Local Walks

Written by Meaghan Barron-Cutts

Discover Cornwall's Natural Playground

Cornwall's dramatic coastline and breathtaking landscapes make it an irresistible destination for outdoor enthusiasts. From world-class surfing and paddleboarding to community run clubs and scenic hiking trails, this stunning region offers endless opportunities to stay active while exploring one of Britain's most spectacular natural environments. While Mawgan Porth remains close to our hearts as home base for Bedruthan and Scarlet, Cornwall's diverse collection of coastal towns and hidden beaches provides adventure around every corner. Below, we've curated some of our favourite walks in Northern Cornwall to help you experience the very best this remarkable coastline has to offer.

Mawgan Porth to St Mawgan Village Walk

Distance: 6.9km | Difficulty: Easy

This captivating journey through the Vale of Lanherne and along River Menalhyl from the sandy shores of Mawgan Porth to the picturesque village of St Mawgan, before returning past an extraordinary 800-year-old cloistered convent where the sanctuary light has burned continuously for centuries.

This route winds through ancient woodlands, flower-filled meadows, and dramatic coastline before reaching Mawgan Porth's pristine beach. Rich in wildlife and history, the walk offers peaceful moments in tranquil St Mawgan village. Traditional Cornish hospitality awaits at The Falcon Inn and The Merrymoor Inn for refreshments, or extend your relaxation back at Scarlet beside our natural reed swimming pool with drinks and snacks in complete tranquillity.

For those who want more....unleash your next adventure with our cutting-edge e-bikes – engineered for effortless and easy use and built to transform every journey into an exhilarating journey along the Cornish coast.

St Ives to Carbis Bay Coastal Walk

Distance: 3.22km | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Begin your adventure with a delightful lunch at Harbour Viewhouse, where fresh, locally-sourced seafood meets sophisticated coastal cuisine. With its calming interiors and spectacular harbour views, it's the perfect spot to fuel up before hitting the trail.

From the restaurant, make your way down to the coast where Cornwall's signature palette of azure waters, golden sands and emerald clifftops unfolds before you. This picturesque route features gentle hills and stairs that reward you with dramatic vistas of the crystal-clear waters below.

The walk concludes at Carbis Bay Train Station, where you can treat yourself to one of Britain's most scenic railway journeys, taking you along the coast back to St Ives. Settle into the carriages and savour those final glimpses of Cornwall's magnificent coastline from the comfort of this delightful coastal railway experience.

Porthcothan to Watergate Bay Coastal Walk

Featuring the Iconic Bedruthan Steps

Distance: 11km | Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous

Prepare to be mesmerised by one of Cornwall's most spectacular coastal walks, culminating in the world-famous Bedruthan Steps—magnificent volcanic rock stacks that have captured countless hearts and camera lenses. Victorian folklore tells of these dramatic formations serving as stepping stones for a legendary giant, adding an enchanting narrative to their already breathtaking presence.

This rewarding route treats walkers to pristine tidal beaches, crystal-clear waters and Cornwall's wildlife-rich terrain, particularly renowned for its diverse bird populations. Porth Mear at low tide offers natural tidal pools and the perfect opportunity to soothe and refresh tired feet.

Why not pop back into the hotel enroute and treat yourself to a chilled beverage and sweet treat from The Bakery or refuel with a delicious meal from The Scarlet Restaurant - ideal to recharge while soaking in the stunning surroundings.

Important Safety Notice: Bedruthan Steps are permanently closed to public access. Please admire these spectacular rock formations from afar only and never attempt to climb or descend the rock face.

Rock to Polzeath Circular Walk

Distance: 9.4km | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

This captivating circular route showcases Cornwall's diverse landscapes, weaving through pristine dunes, dramatic headlands and verdant countryside before returning via the historic Enodoc Church. The walk delivers an exceptional variety of terrain—from sweeping beaches and rolling hills to scenic coastal paths and lush greenery.

With numerous charming establishments along the route offering perfect spots for refreshments, this walk can easily be tailored to your pace. For the ultimate Cornish day out, consider extending your adventure with a ferry crossing to Padstow. Explore the town's boutique shops, acclaimed restaurants and picturesque cobblestone streets, or embrace the water with a kayak rental for a peaceful journey down the scenic River Camel.

Crantock Circular Walk

Distance: 3.7km | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

This enchanting circular route follows The Gannel Estuary from the golden sands of Crantock Beach to the tranquil waters of Penpol Creek, before meandering back through the charming village of Crantock. Recognised as one of our Top 5 Beaches Beyond Bedruthan, Crantock Beach offers expansive stretches of pristine sand that set the perfect tone for this delightfully varied coastal adventure.

The walk seamlessly transforms into a full day's exploration, with opportunities to paddleboard across the river, catch some waves or delve into the area's rich heritage at historic Crantock Church and the fascinating carvings at Pipers Hole. Keep your eyes skyward for the region's extraordinary birdlife, which adds a wonderful natural soundtrack to your journey.

For those seeking extended adventure, a detour to Holywell Bay rewards with even more spectacular coastal vistas. Complete your experience with a leisurely ferry crossing back across the river—a fitting finale to this memorable coastal excursion.

Discover endless adventures waiting right at your doorstep in North Cornwall, where every path leads to breathtaking views and hidden gems scattered throughout our stunning county. Ready to explore? The trail guides below will unlock even more spectacular routes and insider secrets.

- All Trails

- National Trust

- Walk Finder

- iWalk