Our Favourite Romantic Places in Cornwall
Cornwall is a naturally romantic part of the country, with its beautiful blend of coastline and countryside, dotted with pretty villages. If you’re planning a couples’ escape or Valentine’s break in a rural or seaside hideaway, you’re looking at the perfect county.
Here are just a few of the places that make Cornwall the ideal spot for an idyllic romantic retreat.
The most romantic place for…
… a stroll across the beach
There’s something inherently romantic about a windswept walk across the sands, at any time of year. Portheras Cove in the west has the classic Cornish azure waters and white shores, backed by steep cliffs and reached via a cliff path from Pendeen. Rip currents make Portheras unsuitable for swimming, but it’s a lovely beach for a walk or a picnic.
Park at the car park near Pendeen Watch lighthouse, and aim to be back up here in time to catch the sunset. It’s one of the best spots in Cornwall to watch the sun go down.
… a Woodland Walk
Make your way along winding paths, bathing in the dappled light through the leaves or enjoying the patter of raindrops on the canopy. Again, a woodland is a naturally romantic place, and Cornwall has a surprising amount of little-known inland beauty spots. Our favourite woodland walk is the path to Golitha Falls on Bodmin Moor, where the River Fowey flows through Draynes Woods, forming a series of falls. Handily, there’s a car park nearby, and the one-mile circular route is signed.
We’ve written about Golitha Falls and other Cornish waterfall walks in an earlier blog. St Nectan’s Glen is another lovely woodland walk.
… a romantic meal
Cornwall is the place to come if you love dining out. We’ve become famous for the quality of our produce and the calibre of our chefs, and the county is now liberally dotted with destination restaurants. For a romantic meal or Valentine’s Day celebration, we recommend heading to Padstow, Cornwall’s original foodie capital. Reserve a table (well in advance) at Paul Ainsworth at No.6, or for a more casual vibe, try Caffe Rojano (also Paul Ainsworth). If you love fish, Padstow is the home of Rick Stein’s famous empire.
Our local town St Ives is another popular Cornish dining destination. Here’s our guide to our favourite St Ives restaurants
… a day out
A boat trip across to a tidal island, crowned with a medieval castle. Is there anywhere more romantic for a day out than St Michael’s Mount in West Cornwall? You can also explore the medieval harbour and village, pausing for a cream tea at the Harbour Loft or to enjoy an ice cream as you stroll around. If you’re in Cornwall in the winter, you can still walk across the cobbled causeway to visit the village area, even though the castle and gardens are closed.
Book your tickets in advance from the St Michael’s Mount’s website. Occasionally, bad weather closes the island and your tickets have to be refunded. If this happens, hunker down in the Godolphin Arms in Marazion and admire the wind-battered Mount from your cosy table.
… a secluded swim
The walk down to pretty Porth Nanven beach is romantic in itself. You can park near the beach; however, we suggest you leave the car in St Just and stroll through lovely Cot Valley. This secluded swimming spot is also known as Cot Beach and Dinosaur Egg Beach (take a look at the boulders!), and it’s much-loved for its clear blue waters. The “Mermaid Pool”, a natural lido, is a good place for a swim at high tide.
We’ve compiled a list of our favourite Cornish sea swimming spots, including Porth Nanven and beautiful Nanjizal. A winter alternative? Try the warmer pools at Una Spa near St Ives.
An evening at the theatre
The Minack Theatre has to be the most romantic auditorium in the country. Hewn from the cliff tops above sparkling Porthcurno beach, the theatre’s extreme setting always adds to the atmosphere. Pack a picnic hamper of local treats along with cushions and a rug, and settle down for a unique theatrical experience. Look out for fishing boats, seabirds and dolphins, and remember, if it rains, that’s all part of the fun…
You can visit the Minack all year; however, performances are halted over the winter months. If you’re in Cornwall for Valentine’s Day, come here for a coffee then retreat indoors to Truro’s Hall For Cornwall for an enjoyable evening – indoors.
… a short break
We know we’re biased, but we think Cornwall is one of the best places in the UK for a romantic escape, at any time of year. From the windswept loveliness of the coast path in the winter to the bustle of Padstow’s restaurants, there are so many places in Cornwall where you can make wonderful memories together.
Take a look at our collection of luxury holiday cottages, from evocative lofts in pretty St Ives to remote cottages on the cliffs and moors – then start planning your romantic Cornish escape.
