South West Coast Path: Penzance to Falmouth | Stage 5

The walk starts in Penzance which is a bustling small town with many cafes, restaurants and an abundance of galleries selling local artwork.

Leave the lively streets of Penzance behind and follow the path as it curves around Mounts Bay. Before long, the iconic silhouette of St Michael's Mount appears on the horizon—a majestic castle perched on a tiny island, connected to the shore by a charming cobbled causeway. Depending on the tide, you can stroll across on foot or hop aboard a boat to explore this enchanting island.

The trail then weaves through an undulating route, taking you up scenic clifftops before guiding you down to the golden sands of Praa Sands. Here, it’s worth pausing to take in the energy of the local surfers carving through the waves. From there, the path continues and leads you into the postcard-perfect fishing village of Porthleven, a delightful spot to round off your adventure.

Ascent: +350m (+1150ft) / Descent: -360m (-1180ft)

Today's walk begins with a walk along a stretch of beach to the wonderful Loe Bar where Loe Pool sits (Cornwall’s largest freshwater lake).

Birdwatching is very common on the lake so if you wish take a stroll down and see what you can spot. The path continues along cliff edges and down to the fishing village of Mullion Cove. The next few miles to Lizard point can be challenging and boggy underfoot, but worth it as you pass some of the best coastal walking in South Cornwall.

Ascent: +635m (+2085ft) / Descent: -565m (-1850ft)

The Lizard is sometimes referred to as “Cornwall’s Big Toe” dipping into the ocean. It's an impressive area where sub-tropical conditions allow rare species of plants to grow. The first few miles walk to Cadgwith Cove is a very popular section with its fantastic views back to the lighthouse.

Reach Kannack Sands which is a great area to dip your feet with rock pools where you can see sea cucumbers and starfish. Head up along the cliff top of Black Head Point and then take the path along to the little harbour village of Coverage.

Ascent: +395m (+1295ft) / Descent: -475m (-1560ft)

Set off inland through Dean Quarry where the rock ‘Gabro’ is produced. Wonderful cliff top walking continues along the path with views across to the Manacles Reef. The reef lies very close to the shipping lanes from Falmouth, where many lives have been lost and ships wrecked.

Reach the former fishing villages of Porthoustock and Porthallow and follow the trail past Nare Point where views of Falmouth come into sight. You soon enter the picture postcard village of Helford.

Ascent: +440m (+1445ft) / Descent: -440m (-1445ft)

From the point of Port Saxon, you will soon pass Rosemullion head, followed by a handleful of coves to Maenporth. From here the path starts to become more populated as you near Falmouth circle around Pendennis Point and toward the docks and town centre to end your last walk.

Ascent: +125m (+410ft) / Descent: -130m (-425ft)

After breakfast your walking holiday will come to an end. See the Travel Info section for some useful details for your onward travel.