Tucked away in the southwestern corner of Great Britain lies Cornwall, a region that has captivated the hearts of travelers with its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture. As one of England’s most beautiful destinations, Cornwall offers a plethora of attractions, activities, and experiences that cater to diverse interests and preferences.
Travel Informed: Useful Info
Before embarking on your Cornish adventure, it is essential to gather the necessary information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
- Population: 565,968
- Capital: Truro
- Language: English (British)
- Local Currency: Pound Sterling (£) / Exchange Rate: €1 = £0.90
- Climate: Temperate Oceanic, with the mildest and sunniest climate in the UK
Where to Go and How to Get There
Cornwall is easily accessible from Italy via a 2-hour and 50-minute flight from Bristol.
- Fly into London: The best option for reaching Cornwall from Italy.
- Internal Flight: Take an internal flight from London to Newquay Airport, one of the main cities in Cornwall.
- Bus or Train: Alternatively, consider taking a bus or train from London to Newquay.
How to Move Around
Cornwall’s public transportation system allows for convenient travel between main cities and coastal towns. However, renting a car guarantees maximum flexibility and autonomy to explore the region at your own pace.
What to See in Cornwall: Cities, Beaches, and Villages
Cornwall is home to numerous breathtaking landscapes, picturesque villages, and historical residences that offer an immersive experience for visitors.
Truro
- Tourist Harbor: A popular destination for surfers.
- Medieval Cathedral: A must-visit attraction in Truro.
- Cobblestone Streets: Explore the historic character of Truro’s streets.
Newquay
- Excellent Beaches: Famous for its crystal-clear Atlantic waters and sandy beaches.
- Surfing Capital: Hosts numerous international competitions.
- Airport: Conveniently located, making it an ideal base for exploring Cornwall.
Falmouth
- Delightful Coastal Town: Perfect for those who love the sea and history.
- National Maritime Museum: A renowned attraction in Falmouth.
- Numerous Options for Bars and Restaurants: Enjoy a lively atmosphere in this charming town.
Tintagel
- Scenic Location: Situated on top of a cliff overlooking the sea.
- Legend of King Arthur: The birthplace of the famous king, according to legend.
- Tintagel Castle: A must-visit attraction in Tintagel.
Port Isaac
- Charming Coastal Village: Retains its authenticity despite gaining fame through TV shows like “Doc Martin” and “The Great Escape”.
- Narrow Cobblestone Streets: Explore the historic character of Port Isaac’s streets.
- Traditional Houses: Admire the traditional architecture in this picturesque village.
Polzeath
- Well-known Coastal Resort: Famous for being an excellent spot for surfers.
- Wide and Sandy Beach: The inviting Atlantic waters attract surfers of all levels.
- Surfing Lessons: Offers surfing lessons for beginners and is an ideal place to learn or improve your surfing skills.
Porthleven
- Coastal Town: Provides excellent conditions for expert surfers.
- Turbulent Waves: The powerful currents make Porthleven a favorite among those seeking a challenge.
- Picnic Spots and Fresh Seafood Restaurants: Enjoy the picturesque harbor and fresh seafood in this unmissable destination.
St Ives
- Charming Coastal Town: Often compared to Saint-Tropez, it is one of Cornwall’s most popular beach destinations during summer.
- Lively Atmosphere: Attracts tourists from all over the UK by boat to enjoy the cosmopolitan atmosphere and beautiful sandy beaches.
- Art Galleries and High-Quality Restaurants: Discover the art galleries and high-quality restaurants in this enchanting town.
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St Michael’s Mount
- Small Tidal Island: Located off the southern coast of Cornwall.
- Charming Village and Magnificent Castle: Offers breathtaking views of the sea on the island.
- Accessible by Foot: During low tide, it is possible to reach the island on foot through a submerged path.
Penzance and Chapel Street
- Enchanting Town: An ideal starting point for exploring Cornwall.
- Comfortable Connections to London: Offers easy access to the region’s main attractions.
- Oldest Street in Penzance: Explore the historic buildings and local legends on Chapel Street.
Land’s End
- Natural Beauty: Offers stunning views, cliffs overlooking the sea, and the chance to see rare species of flora and fauna.
- Scenic Coastal Walks: An excellent starting point for exploring Cornwall’s natural beauty.
- Tourist Facilities: Conveniently located, with shops, restaurants, and a theme park.
Lost Gardens of Heligan
- 80-Acre Garden Complex: Sits in the heart of Cornwall.
- Epic Atmosphere and Fantasy: Captivates visitors with its stunning landscapes and natural beauty.
- English and Italian Gardens: Discover the unique combination of English and Italian gardens within this enchanting collection.
Eden Project
- Unique Attraction: Located in Cornwall, under enormous geodetic domes.
- Rainforests and Mediterranean Biomes: Creates an incredible and suggestive environment for visitors.
- Local Plant Species: Explore the outdoor garden hosting local plant species.
Main Itineraries in Cornwall
Cornwall offers a variety of itineraries tailored to different interests and travel styles. Choose from one of these options:
Sailing with King Arthur
- Visit Dartmoor National Park, where according to legend, King Arthur was born.
- Explore Tintagel, followed by Land’s End, St Ives, and St Michael’s Mount.
- Stop at Port Isaac on the way, taking in the stunning coastal views along the coast.
Cornwall with Kids: Legend and Nature
- Departing from Tintagel, visit numerous castles such as Launceston Castle, Saint Mawes Castle, and Pendennis Castle until you reach St. Michael’s Mount.
- Uncover the legend of Cormoran in this enchanting destination.
What to Do in Cornwall: Hiking and Tours
Cornwall offers a range of activities for all interests and skill levels.
When to Go? Info on Climate and Best Time
- Cornwall has a mild climate, with temperatures rarely below 0°C (32°F) and rarely above 10°C (50°F).
- The best time to visit is during the summer months, especially June and July.
- Avoid autumn and winter as they are the wettest months in Cornwall.
Accommodation Options
Cornwall offers a wide variety of accommodation options, including:
- Hotels: From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options.
- B&Bs (Bed and Breakfasts): Charming establishments offering a home away from home experience.
- Self-Catering Apartments: Ideal for families or groups of friends.
Getting Around
Cornwall’s public transportation system includes:
- Bus Services: Connecting main towns and villages to the rest of Cornwall.
- Trains: Providing regular service to major towns and cities in England and Wales.
