Exploring the Cornish Coastline with the Best Coasteering Locations
The rugged Cornish coastline is home to one of the most famous outdoor adventures of not only Britons but also international travellers. The art of coasteering allows you to explore the untamed beauty of the Cornish coastline, climb up steep and jagged-faced cliffs, jump into and swim in the water, and explore the various caves dotting the cliffscape. It’s the perfect adventure for the adrenaline-junkie as well as those who would like to try something totally different. If the culinary world has its surf ‘n turf, this is its adventure equivalent. Here are some of the best coasteering locations in Cornwall you’ve definitely include in your bucket list.
Newquay
There are a number of coasteering outfits in Newquay that offer a variety of packages for those who want to try a different kind of adventure. Whether it is negotiating whirlpools or natural rapids, spotting an amazing marine life, or exploring the area’s vaunted smugglers’ caves, Newquay’s coast has it. It’s also the perfect spot for making that adrenaline-filled jump. They’ve got night coasteering, too. The area has different coasteering routes for different folks. The Point, The Big Island, and The Gazzle all provide unique adventures in themselves. You could try all if you want. Newquay is undoubtedly one of Cornwall’s best spots when the absolute outdoor adventure is spoken of.
St. Ives
Boasting of the clearest waters in the British Isles, the coast of St. Ives provides a spectacular array of things to do and explore. This is especially true if you’re the kind of adventurer who doesn’t mind swimming with the resident seals of the area as well as the occasional dolphins that seem to be happy around people. The rock formations in the St. Ives area are simply spectacular, frequently punctuated with caves and other unusual geologic features.
Falmouth
The coastline around Falmouth seems like it was made for exploration by rock or water. There are many coves and inlets to explore, including Maenporth Beach, Sunny Cove and Flushing Beach. The Falmouth area of Cornwall is a wonderful place to stay for a holiday. Try Cornish Holiday Cottages for the best choice of holiday homes in the area. Watch out for the tides here as the Fal estuary floods in and out from the sea a few times a day. So it’s sensible to go on a coasteering tour with a local company who can show you the best spots and ensure safety and enjoyment of this magical coast.
Lizard Peninsula
The Lizard Peninsula is home to some of Cornwall’s spectacular sceneries including the Mullion Cave surrounded by stacks of imposing volcanic rock in their foreboding black colour, lapped by warm waters down below. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your luck diving just off the Manacles rocks and feel the eeriness of the shipwrecks in the area. Whirlpools, jagged cliffs, and waterline caves abound. The waters are always inviting and the distant flicker of light on the shores can easily tell you you’re still safe and sound.
Land’s End
With granitic cliffs jutting skywards complete with their very steep faces, Land’s End is a favourite. The unique characteristics of the igneous rock formations allow for a much better grasp when scaling its faces. Head out some 1.6 kilometres offshore to the Longships and you’d be greeted with the mythical lost island of Arthurian legends – the Lyonesse. There are numerous caves, rocky coves, and sheer cliffs that have become the springboard for many coasteerers. The tranquil waters down below should help cushion the impact.
The entire coastline of Cornwall, washed by the waters of the Celtic Sea in the north and the equally tame English Channel in the south, is a haven for modern-day adventurers. It’s beaming for you to try.
