Alexandra Pearce goes in search of this month’s best dog spots with a little help from Lex and Leika...
Coastal paths are a great way to enjoy Cornwall’s best views, and as most paths leading around the coastline are well cared for, they can be a safe and easy way to get the best out of the county.
One absolute favourite in our household is Poldhu to Halzephron.
Poldhu, which has ample parking and has earned a Blue Flag in recent years, is quite narrow, but the tide goes out quite far meaning there is usually lots of space to run about. On the left-hand side of the beach there is small junction. Bear left up the hill to a smaller carpark. From here, take the path which veers slightly away from the coast and towards the large golf course. The path will descend the hill towards Gunwalloe. The first beach you come to is a sandy cove where the tail end of the Loe meets the sea. You can cross the river via a small wooden bridge and in front of you, nestled into the headland is St Winwaloe’s Church and Bell Tower. Built in the 6th Century, it is well worth a visit, providing a moment of peace. The churchyard also provides interesting insight into the local history; with graves dedicated to those who succumbed to the plague, as well as many losses at sea; the area is known for some famous shipwrecks. From the church, head towards a second beach, which is rockier than the first. The coast path continues here, leading you up around the headland with fields on the right. Be aware, these sometimes contain livestock. This is a great place to spot cormorants and oystercatchers, as well as a resident female kestrel, who often delights golfers at the local course by sitting atop signs on the course looking for insects.
The coast path will start to curve, leading you towards Halzephron cliff. The view here is spectacular and on a clear day you can see Loe bar and to Porthleven. You could continue to walk, but if you have had enough, a short walk down the lane is the Halzephron Inn. The famous pub has an uninterrupted view of the horizon, and is a fantastic place to sit and watch the sun go down.
Rating: Easy. Slight gradient in places.
Facilities: There is parking at Poldhu, Gunwalloe and Halzephron Cliff. Poldhu and Gunwalloe also have toilets and bins and places to get refreshments.
Access: Some of the paths can be difficult to manoeuvre with pushchairs and wheelchairs, especially between Gunwalloe and Halzephron Cliff
Wildlife: Oystercatcher’s (Haematopus ostralegus) and the occasional grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) can often be spotted in the area.
Beach in Focus
A sandy cove which connects Summerleaze and Northcott Mount to create a large area.
Why we love it
With shops, toilets, cafe and even an outdoor swimming pool, there is a little something for everyone here. Car parking and excellent disabled access – there is even a sand chair – meaning everyone can enjoy what the area has to offer.
Contact:
alexandra-pearce.com
@CornwallLifeEd
