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map showing location of tourFar West Cornwall self guided walking holidays

West Penwith, the far western tip of Cornwall provides a dramatic landscape where rugged, granite-studded moorlands reach down to a spectacular Atlantic coastline and the sea surges into picturesque, lonely coves. This rugged splendour is beautifully balanced by an abundance of wild flowers on the cliff tops. Spring comes early in West Cornwall and by early April the walker is able to enjoy a fine display of fresh greenery, primroses, violets and camellias. In high summer the moorland is ablaze with the rich purple and gold of heather and gorse.

Mousehole Harbour

Picture: Mousehole Harbour - britainonview/Roy Westlake

The granite tors which overlook the coastline are dotted with stone circles, stone rows, ancient cromlechs and mysterious standing stones such as the Mên-an-tol. Many of these stones predate Stonehenge by several thousand years and contribute greatly to the mystique of the area. It is no coincidence that the vast majority of Cornwall’s fascinating folklore and mythology has its origins on this small, isolated peninsula.

The itinerary will vary depending upon the grade and duration of the tour, but most will include a visit to the pretty village of Zennor, with its touching mermaid legend, and the tiny church where the ‘mermaid’s seat’ is on show; a walk around Land’s End for magnificent views from England’s most westerly point; the picturesque fishing village of Mousehole; Porthcurno where the famous open air Minack Theatre is cut into the cliff face; beautiful Lamorna Cove; and the ancient standing stones on the West Penwith Moors.

Bed & Breakfast option

Your holiday in the Far West of Cornwall will be based at a comfortable family-run guest house close to the centre of the attractive town of Penzance. Your room will have ensuite facilities (private bathroom) and you will have a choice of continental or full English breakfast. Penzance has a good range of restaurants and pubs serving meals in the evening.

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast option

Your holiday in the Far West of Cornwall will be based at Hotel Penzance [AA***] on the outskirts of the historic town of Penzance. The hotel occupies a prime position overlooking St Michael's Mount. Hotel Penzance was named 'Hotel of the Year, 2006' by Cornwall Tourism, whilst their Bay Restaurant, which holds two coveted AA rosettes for the standard of its service and cuisine, was named 'Restaurant of the Year 2006'. All of the attractive and well-appointed bedrooms have ensuite facilities.