South Cornwall Coast Path Guided Trail
Follow part of the South West Coast Path National Trail and explore miles of spectacular Cornish coastline awash with stories of smugglers, piracy, and plunder. Journey from Cape Cornwall to Helford and tick off a host of highlights along the way. You’ll round the granite cliffs of Land’s End, drop into storied smuggling haunts like Mousehole, marvel at the remarkable Minack Theatre, and visit Lizard Point – mainland Britain’s most southerly spot. Add in a selection of sparkling beaches, secret coves, and fishing villages and it’s no surprise that this is one of our most popular trails.
What you’ll love
- Walking coastal paths from Cape Cornwall to Helford
- Admiring a landscape of rugged headlands and sandy coves
- Gazing out to sea from the dramatic cliffs at Land's End
- Passing through the picturesque fishing village of Mousehole
- Visiting Lizard Point, the most southerly reach of mainland Britain
- Staying at Chy Morvah, our country house in St Ives
- A more personalised experience thanks to small group sizes (maximum 15 people)
What’s included
- Comfortable en-suite rooms in our country house
- Cream tea on arrival day
- Cooked or continental breakfast every morning
- Daily packed lunches
- Three-course evening meals, plus tea & coffee
- Guided walks with an experienced HF Holidays Leader
- All transport to and from walks where necessary
Trip Notes
Easy to download as a PDF, our trip notes provide detailed information for every holiday. Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date.
All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.
Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival, served from 4.30pm.
Starting at Cape Cornwall, we walk past Ballowall Barrow towards Porth Nanven and then along easy paths to Whitesand Bay and Sennen Cove. We traverse granite cliffs to Land’s End and continue over some of the most spectacular stretches of Britain’s coastline. Granite cliffs take us on past Mill Bay, over Gwennap Head and down to Porthgwarra, a delightful cove with unusual tunnels through the cliffs, and finally to the Minack Theatre, a unique open-air theatre created in the cliffs with the Atlantic as a backdrop. We descend to Porthcurno and finish the first day’s walk in an area that has seen many advances in telegraphy by the former Cable and Wireless Company.
11 miles (18km), with 2400 feet (740m) of ascent; terrain varied – sometimes rough and narrow with numerous short ascents and descents, at other times easy beach walking.
Leaving Porthcurno we ascend to Treryn Dinas, home of the Logan Rock, before we drop down to Penberth Cove (National Trust), completely unspoilt by commercialism. Further ascents and descents bring us to sheltered St Loy and its boulder-strewn beach. We have a short section through lush vegetation before returning to rougher sections as we approach Lamorna Cove and continue, with views of St Michael’s Mount, to Mousehole. There should hopefully be time to explore this delightful harbour, as the built-up section from here through Penzance will be omitted from the walk.
8 miles (13 km) with 1,850 feet (580m) of ascent; rugged with several short ascents and descents becoming easier towards Mousehole.
Starting at Marazion we walk along low sandstone cliffs towards Perranuthnoe, and then pass Cudden Point and Prussia Cove to reach the long sandy beach of Praa Sands. Dramatically sited at Rinsey Head, and Trewavas Head, we see partly restored mine buildings before continuing between fields and crumbling cliff edges to the fishing harbour of Porthleven to meet our coach.
10 miles (16km), with 1,800 feet (550m) of ascent; easy tracks becoming more rugged and difficult, ending with a series of ascents and descents on narrow cliff paths.
Returning to Porthleven harbour we follow the remains of a coast road to Loe Bar, the sand bank between Loe Pool, Cornwall’s largest freshwater lake, and the sea. We continue along the coast path to the fishing cove of Gunwalloe and then to Church Cove and the church of St Winwaloe, nestling down on the beach behind protective rock. The path continues to Poldhu Cove and the cliffs where the first radio signals were sent across the Atlantic by Marconi in 1901. A magnificent stretch of cliff scenery brings us to Mullion Cove and then to the scenic Kynance Cove. When we reach Lizard Point, the most southerly point in England we head inland to Lizard Green and our return coach.
14 miles (22.5km), with 2500 feet (760m) of ascent; easy paths giving way to narrower and more difficult terrain; apart from a few little steep valleys, much of the walking is over level ground high above the cliffs.
From Lizard Green, we walk back down towards Lizard Head and Polpeor Cove (the most southerly point in England) and past the Lizard Lighthouse. We continue towards a second Church Cove and past a collapsed cave known as the Devil’s Frying Pan, to Cadgwith. The path continues past the disused serpentine works at Poltesco across Kennack Sands, on to Black Head and down to Coverack village.
11 miles (18 km), with 2,250 feet (680m) of ascent; short steep ascents and descents, then easier walking around Black Head.
We start the day at Coverack beside a shingle beach and on to the raised beach of Lowland Point. Soon quarries, active and derelict, force the path away from the coast towards St Keverne. We rejoin the coast at Porthallow and continue to Nare Point where we get a view of the wooded Helford River estuary. We continue to the houses on the Gillan Creek, and reach the hamlet of St Anthony. The coastal path then goes towards Dennis Head before descending through the woods of the Bosahan Estate to Helford Village.
12½ miles (20km), with 1,650 feet (500m) of ascent; a short ascent then good coast paths before turning inland on minor roads to ford (or walk around) Gillan Creek – then wooded (often muddy) riverside walking into Helford.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home.
Chy Morvah
The Penwith peninsula takes centre stage at this beautiful property in St Ives – the seaside hub that has inspired generations of artists for its working harbour, historic fishing communities, white-sand beaches, and surrounding Cornish landscape. The setting couldn’t be more idyllic; just a skip away from the town’s cobbled streets and within walking distance of four great beaches: Porthmeor, Porthminster, Harbour, and Porthgwidden. It’s also a short drive to St Michael’s Mount – the tidal island crowned by a medieval church and castle. The National Trust has owned most of the island since 1954 and while they ensure its preservation and conservation, it’s been the cherished home of the St Aubyn family since the 17th century.
Rooms
Designed with your comfort in mind, Chy Morvah has 39 well-appointed guest rooms available in three categories: Classic, Premium, and Superior.
Classic Rooms are comfortable en-suite guest rooms, ideal for a peaceful night's sleep. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, and shower gel), and a TV.
Premium Rooms are more spacious en-suite guest rooms*. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, body lotion, shower gel), and a 32-inch TV. Extras include bathrobes, slippers, and comfortable mattresses.
Superior Rooms are even more spacious en-suite guest rooms offering upgraded views of the surroundings*. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, body lotion, shower gel), and a 32-inch TV. Extras include bathrobes, slippers, and comfortable mattresses.
We love: The guest rooms that make the most of the sea views are easily the best.
The Choose Your Room service is available at our UK country houses, allowing you the option of choosing and confirming a specific room for an extra charge of £30 per room. This is subject to availability. Upgrade supplements apply.
Check in & check out
You are welcome to check in from 4:00pm at the earliest. On arrival, you’ll enjoy a complimentary cream tea and get to meet your fellow guests, our HF Holidays Leaders, and the rest of the friendly team.
On the day of departure, we kindly ask all guests to check out by 10:00am. You’ll be asked to settle your bill prior to leaving. You may, of course, make a charitable donation to our HF Holidays Pathways Fund if you wish. Please note that we only accept card payments.
Room supplements
| Superior | Premium single | Premium double/twin | Choose your room |
| £25 pppn | £20 pppn | £20 pppn | £30 per room |
*Views and layout reflect each properties unique character and location
About your stay
A warm welcome
We want you to feel comfortable from the moment you arrive. You’ll find a welcome pack in your room with guest registration forms, menus, order forms for dinners and picnic lunches, the Wi-Fi password, and the front door code. Our houses are locked at night, so we recommend noting the Duty Manager’s number on arrival in case of an emergency (or getting locked out).
Evening entertainment
While evening entertainment varies from house to house, the HF Holidays Big Pub Quiz held after dinner on Wednesdays is a weekly staple. Your HF Holidays Leader may be around for tips on guided and self-guided walking routes as well as visit-worthy local attractions.
Walks talks
Our HF Holidays Leaders host guided walking information briefings before dinner on arrival days. This is followed by a group Walks Talk for information on the following day’s walking delights (held before dinner every evening). Self-guided walking guests are, of course, welcome.
The walking day
Prior to setting off on walks, your HF Holidays Leader will run you through a short safety briefing. There’s also an up-to-date weather forecast on display at the house to ensure you have appropriate clothing and footwear. If you choose to do your own walks or are on a self-guided walking holiday, we ask that you please complete an Independent Walker Card each day. These can be found near the Discovery Point in the house.
Food & drink
Led by experienced chefs, we serve a wide range of dishes made with fresh and seasonal ingredients. We always aim to source the best produce available and use home-grown herbs and vegetables from our own gardens whenever possible. Additionally, we have a licensed bar with beers, soft drinks, and a superb selection of spirits. Full-board comes as standard and includes a cream tea on arrival and a hearty breakfast on departure day.
HF Holidays understands the importance of managing allergens effectively to ensure food is safe for guests with food allergies. Whilst we are always able to confidently inform guests which allergens are present in our ingredients and dishes, we are unable to guarantee absolute freedom from the 14 main allergens in our kitchens. Vegetarian and vegan menu choices are available. If you have allergies, food intolerances, or any special dietary requirements, please inform our reservation team at the time of booking.
Accessibility
For accessibility and assistance information, please contact our expert team on 020 3974 8865 or view the accessibility information online for Chy Morvah
Getting to Chy Morvah
Find out more about this location including travel details and room types.
More InformationAddress
Chy Morvah
Bishops Road
St. Ives
Cornwall TR26 2DB
What3words reference: flipper.pulled.shepherdess
Tel: +44 (0)1736 796314
By train
The nearest rail station is St Ives. Chy Morvah is a short 10-minute walk uphill from the station. Exit the station, turn left and walk through St Ives Station car park, take the walkway on your left to Terrace Road A3074. Turn left, cross the road and continue uphill on a No Entry road to reach Pendolver Terrace. Turn left on Pendolver Terrace and follow the road around uphill to the right. Chy Morvah is signposted ahead.
An alternative to St Ives rail station is St Erth, which is connected to many mainline services. Please check National Rail for train times and route planning.
By taxi
St. Ives station is only half a mile away, but it’s a steep uphill walk.
St. Erth is four miles away and the journey takes just over 10 minutes.
For pricing, please contact Ace Cars directly.
Ace Cars
You can pre-book a taxi from our recommended company, Ace Cars*. We recommend booking your taxi at least seven days in advance by contacting:
Tel: +44 (0)1736 797799
Email: acecars2@aol.com
A return journey can be arranged on your behalf by the HF Holidays House Manager at Chy Morvah.
*Ace Cars is not owned or managed by HF Holidays.
By car
Head to Cornwall via the A30 then take the A3074 signposted to St. Ives. At the next two small roundabouts, go straight across the first and take a right at the second towards Lelant. Pass through Lelant and Carbis Bay on the same road.
As you approach St. Ives keep left at the fork, which heads slightly uphill, following signs to visitor parking and the leisure centre. Follow the road and turn left up the steep hill. Almost immediately the road turns left again, but instead of following the road, turn off and head directly up the hill on Porthminster Terrace.
Chy Morvah is at the top of the hill. To reach the car park you’ll need to drive left past the front of Chy Morvah and turn immediately right behind the back of the building. The car park is on the right 15 yards along Bishop's Road.
By air
The nearest airport is London Heathrow Airport.
First take the train to London Paddington station from where you’ll find direct trains to St. Erth, and a short train journey to St. Ives.
A morning arrival into Heathrow would be best as you’ll need around 6.5 hours to complete the journey.
The airports at Bristol and Newquay are also nearby, but there aren’t as many flight options.
Check National Rail for routes and train times.
The UK has a famously unpredictable climate so it's best to be prepared for weather that’s sunny one minute and raining the next. To make it easier, here’s a list of items you should consider packing.
Essentials
- Suitable footwear such as waterproof walking boots that provide ankle support and good grip
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Comfortable clothing (jeans & waterproof capes are not suitable)
- Mid-layer(s) to keep you warm. Fleeces make a good choice
- Waterproof overtrousers
- Gloves and a warm hat
- Rucksack with waterproof liner
- Flask for hot drinks
- Water bottle (at least 1 litre capacity)
- Sunscreen
- UV sunglasses
Recommended
- Several base layers (long-sleeve or short-sleeve)
- Cushioned walking socks to avoid blisters
- First aid kit, including plasters and insect repellent
- Sit mat
- Waterproof pouch for valuables
- Rubbish bag (remember to always leave no trace)
- Wallet/purse
- Camera
- First-aid kit
Chy Morvah Calendar
- Guided Walking
- Self-Guided Walking
- Special Interests
- Unavailable to Book
Guest reviews
All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.
Non-member fee: £30 per person.
All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take an alternative route, or vary the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.
Holiday prices
| Date (Start - End) | Itinerary | Double / Twin Room | Single Room | Notes / Offers | Trip Notes | Book | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | ||||||||
|
26 Apr - 03 May 2025 7 nights |
Guided Trail
Single Call to Enquire
Double from £1,129 pp |
from £1,129 pp |
Call to Enquire |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now | |||
|
21 Jun - 28 Jun 2025 7 nights |
Guided Trail
Single Call to Enquire
Double from £1,289 pp |
from £1,289 pp |
Call to Enquire |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now | |||
|
30 Aug - 06 Sep 2025 7 nights |
Guided Trail Single from £1,289 Double from £1,289 pp |
from £1,289 pp |
from £1,289 |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now | |||
|
04 Oct - 11 Oct 2025 7 nights |
Guided Trail Single from £1,129 Double from £1,129 pp |
from £1,129 pp |
from £1,129 |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now | |||
167Kg of CO₂e
Average carbon footprint per person Learn More
