Coastal Wonders of Cornwall

Tucked away in Britain's southwestern corner, Cornwall's coastline is a masterpiece of natural architecture. Dramatic cliffs plunge into turquoise waters, golden beaches stretch for miles, and charming fishing villages nestle in protected coves. This ancient landscape, shaped by the relentless Atlantic, is home to a distinct culture and a rich maritime heritage that makes it feel like a country unto itself.

A Coastline Sculpted by Nature

Cornwall's 300-mile coastline is characterized by its dramatic diversity. On the north coast, Atlantic rollers crash against towering cliffs and sweep into wide, sandy bays that are a paradise for surfers. The south coast, kissed by milder Channel waters, reveals a gentler landscape of sheltered coves, estuaries rich in wildlife, and subtropical gardens that thrive in the mild climate.

At Ovoschnaya Kilika, our Cornish coastal tours take you to both the famous landmarks and hidden gems of this remarkable shoreline. Walk along the cliff path to Bedruthan Steps, where massive rock stacks stand sentinel in the sea – the result of millions of years of erosion. Explore the otherworldly landscape of the Lizard Peninsula, where rare geology creates a haven for unique plant species found nowhere else in Britain.

Maritime Heritage

The sea has shaped not just Cornwall's landscape but its culture and history. For centuries, fishing, shipbuilding, smuggling, and maritime trade have defined Cornish life. Our tours bring this heritage to life as we explore atmospheric harbors and former smugglers' haunts.

In Charlestown, a UNESCO World Heritage site, we visit a perfectly preserved Georgian harbor once bustling with ships carrying china clay from the nearby pits. At Porthcurno, we discover how this tiny cove became a global communications hub when the first international telegraph cables were laid across the seafloor in the 19th century.

Perhaps most emblematic of Cornwall's relationship with the sea are its charming fishing villages. In places like Mousehole (pronounced "Mowzel" by locals), Polperro, and Mevagissey, colorful cottages cluster around working harbors where fishing boats still bring in the day's catch. Our guides share the stories of these communities – tales of heroic lifeboat rescues, devastating storms, and the changing fortunes of the fishing industry.

A Landscape of Legends

Cornwall's dramatic coastline has inspired countless myths and legends. At Tintagel, perched on a windswept headland, we explore the ruins of a medieval castle intertwined with the legend of King Arthur. According to tradition, it was here that the legendary ruler was conceived with the help of Merlin's magic.

Near Land's End, Britain's most westerly point, we visit ancient holy wells and prehistoric stone circles that speak to the enduring spiritual significance of this landscape. And at St. Michael's Mount, a tidal island crowned by a medieval church and castle, we learn how this remarkable site has been a place of pilgrimage for over a thousand years.

Our guides, many born and raised in Cornwall, share the rich folklore of the coast – tales of mermaids, giants, and the lost land of Lyonesse, said to have sunk beneath the waves between Land's End and the Isles of Scilly.

Natural Wonders and Wildlife

Cornwall's coastal waters are teeming with life. On our tours, we take time to observe the rich biodiversity of this special environment. From the cliffs of Pentire Point, we watch for peregrine falcons and guillemots nesting on narrow ledges. Along the shore at low tide, we explore rock pools filled with anemones, crabs, and starfish.

For many visitors, the highlight is spotting marine mammals. Seals are common along the Cornish coast, particularly around the Lizard Peninsula and St. Ives Bay. With luck, you might also glimpse dolphins or even basking sharks, the world's second-largest fish, which visit Cornish waters in summer to feed on plankton.

The variety of coastal habitats – from sandy dunes to salt marshes, from rocky shores to sheltered estuaries – supports an extraordinary diversity of plant life too. In spring, the cliff tops are carpeted with wildflowers, including many rare species that thrive in the mild climate and special geology of places like the Lizard.

Artistic Inspiration

The quality of light in Cornwall, intensified by the surrounding sea, has long attracted artists. In St. Ives, we explore how this former fishing village became a world-renowned center for modern art in the mid-20th century, home to sculptors like Barbara Hepworth and painters such as Ben Nicholson and Peter Lanyon.

The tradition continues today, with numerous galleries showcasing contemporary responses to this inspiring landscape. For visitors with artistic interests, we can arrange special tours focused on Cornwall's art heritage or even organize workshops with local artists.

Culinary Delights

No exploration of Cornwall would be complete without sampling its culinary treasures. The pure waters around the Cornish coast provide some of the finest seafood in Britain. On our tours, we take you to authentic local restaurants where you can savor freshly caught crab, lobster, and fish, often landed just hours before it reaches your plate.

Traditional Cornish foods like the famous pasty – a hand-held pastry filled with meat and vegetables that was the original packed lunch for tin miners – and saffron buns give you a taste of the region's culinary heritage. And we make sure you experience a proper Cornish cream tea – though be warned that in Cornwall, unlike neighboring Devon, the jam goes on the scone before the clotted cream!

Coastal Activities

For those who want to experience the coast more actively, we can arrange a variety of optional activities. Try your hand at sea kayaking in sheltered bays, exploring caves and hidden coves inaccessible from land. Learn to surf on beginner-friendly beaches like Polzeath or Harlyn Bay. Join a local fishing boat for a mackerel fishing trip, then cook your catch at a beach barbecue as the sun sets.

One of the best ways to experience the Cornish coast is simply on foot. The South West Coast Path, England's longest waymarked footpath, follows the entire coastline of Cornwall. Our walking tours feature the most spectacular sections, with our guides pointing out features of interest and sharing their knowledge of the coastal environment.

When to Visit

Cornwall's coastal beauty changes with the seasons, each offering a different experience:

• Spring (April-May): The cliff tops burst into color with wildflowers, seabird colonies return to nest on cliff ledges, and the popular destinations are relatively quiet.
• Summer (June-August): Long, sunny days are perfect for swimming and water activities. This is peak season, with a lively atmosphere in coastal towns and villages.
• Autumn (September-October): The sea is at its warmest, the summer crowds have diminished, and the light takes on a special quality that photographers love.
• Winter (November-March): Experience the wild, dramatic side of the coast when Atlantic storms send massive waves crashing against the cliffs. Cozy up afterwards in historic pubs with roaring fires.

Planning Your Cornish Coastal Adventure

Cornwall's compact size belies its incredible diversity. To truly appreciate the coastal wonders, we recommend spending at least 4-5 days exploring this special corner of Britain. Our Cornish tours can be tailored to your interests, whether you're passionate about history, wildlife, food, art, or active adventures.

We handle all the logistics, from accommodations in carefully selected hotels and guesthouses to transportation along Cornwall's scenic but sometimes challenging roads. Our knowledgeable local guides bring the landscape to life with their insights and stories, taking you beyond the guidebook to discover the true essence of Cornwall's coastal wonders.