Walks in St Ives
Cornwall is full of amazing scenery, wildlife and landmarks which can be explored via coastal and inland walks with spectacular views.
Here in Cornwall, we are really lucky to have the South West Coastal Path on our doorstep. If you are looking to explore the local area whilst staying in one of our luxury self catering cottages, we have a few suggestions of short walks in the St Ives area.
St Ives to Mans Head
Take a break from the beach and take a short stroll around the headland to Man’s Head. Starting on Porthmeor beach, follow the path from St Ives Surf School which will lead you to Man’s Head, which gets it's name from the shape of the rock face.
If you are lucky, there is a possibility of seeing a variety of wildlife both on land and in the sea below, from the occasional seal passing, to seabirds like gannets and auks, to butterflies.
St Ives to Carbis Bay
Step out of the hustle and bustle of St Ives by taking a walk along the coast to the nearby Carbis Bay -a stunning beach and village just around the corner. Walking along the coast to Carbis Bay, you are promised stunning views of the whole of St Ives Bay.
Starting at Porthminster Beach, you will head up a hill footpath where you will cross over the railway line at the top before reaching Porthminster Point. A great place to stop and take in the whole bay and check for any marine life such as Common Dolphins, who if you are lucky can be seen during their occasional visits to the bay.
Continue along the coastal path until it ends and cross over the railway line again to reach Carbis Bay Beach.
Once you get to Carbis Bay, there are plenty of places to get refreshments with the hotel offering a cafe, a selection of restaurants and ice cream’s for you to enjoy once your walk is complete.
To return back to St Ives you can follow the same route back, or walk up the hill to Carbis Bay train station for a 2 minute train journey back to Porthminster Beach.
St Ives to Knill’s Monument
Get some amazing views of the bay whilst enjoying the local wildlife and tranquillity of Knill’s monument.
Head out of St Ives towards Carbis Bay, about a mile up Trelyon Ave. When you get to the Cornish Arms pub; about a mile from St Ives town centre, walk up the road next to the pub, called Steeple Lane. Knill's monument is about another half a mile up the lane. It can be a little steep at points, but is well worth it.
When on Knill's monument you can be treated to wildlife including the amazing bird life, including occasional glimpses of birds of prey and butterflies, as well as being able to take in the history of Knill’s Monument.