Cornwall forms the western most part of the south west peninsula of the island of Britain and has strong cultural connections with Wales and Brittany in northern France. This walking holiday takes you to the most picturesque stretches of the famous Cornish coast line and features most of the loveliest traditional fishing villages. There will be a visit to one of the world’s most famous gardens – the Lost Gardens of Heligan – and you will stay in comfortable well located Cornish hotels.
Day 1:
Arrival at the train station in Par (the nearest) or St Austell and transfer to your hotel in Fowey. The taxi should be pre-ordered, call 01726 832372 or 01726 815415. Fowey is situated on the west bank of the River Fowey on the south coast of Cornwall between Looe and Mevagissey. Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Fowey has a unique charm and holds a special fascination for visitors. Its quaint cottages, narrow steep winding streets with glimpses of the shimmering river below, and bustling harbor all create an enchanting appeal. Meet your guide at 6 pm in the hotel bar for a briefing and dinner. (D)
Day 2:
Walking in the footsteps of the writer Daphne Du Maurier (Rebecca and Jamaica Inn), this walk takes in wonderful countryside, wooded creeks and stunning coastal views where we stop for a picnic. There is a wealth of historical and literary interest as well as plenty of opportunities for refreshments. Walk to Polruan and then take the ferry back to Fowey. 6 miles (B, L, D)
Day 3:
After breakfast we take a ferry from Fowey to the beautiful fishing village of Mevagissey and from here we walk to the Lost Gardens of Heligan, glorious gardens in typical 19th century fashion, neglected in the 20th century and only recently restored with award-winning international acclaim. After lunch at the garden cafe we retrace our steps to Mevagissey and take the ferry back to Fowey for the final night in Fowey. 6-miles (B, L, D)
Day 4:
After breakfast we head south to the pretty town of Marazion set on the shores of Mount's Bay. While the luggage is transferred to our hotel in Marazion, we get off at the famous beach at Praa Sands and walk along the South West Coastal Path to Prussia Cave and the Mount Haven Hotel. 6.5 miles (B, L, D)
Day 5:
After breakfast we walk to the famous St Michaels Mount – Once a Benedictine Priory, a fortress and tin mining port it is accessed by a causeway, revealed at low tide, once walked by pilgrims in honor of the alleged apparition of St. Michael. At other times, access is gained by means of small ferry boats. After lunch we return to the mainland and will visit one of the great Cornwall gardens and sculpture park at Tremenheer for a gentle walk. (B, L, D) Overnight Mount Haven 5 miles (B, L, D)
Day 6:
After breakfast we transfer part of the way and then walk into St Ives, the classic Cornish fishing village which has caught the imagination of artists for a century or more and let to the development of the St Ives school of art. As a result there are several museums including the Barbara Hepworth museum and the Tate Gallery. Spend time in this wonderful village followed by a walk along the coast path before returning to Marazion for the final night. 7 miles (B, L D)
Day 7:
Departure after breakfast. Frequent trains are available from Penzance to London and other destinations. (B)
