Waterfall Walks in Cornwall
If you think of a walk in Cornwall, what do you picture? A hike along the South West Coast path, perhaps, or a dog walk among the dunes. If you know the county already, you might also imagine exploring the wilds of Bodmin Moor or the old mining districts in the west.
However, if you’d like to explore somewhere a bit different and perhaps escape the bustle of the better-known spots for a while, take a walk to one of Cornwall’s beautiful waterfalls. You’ll find these among our shaded woodlands and peaceful valleys, or cascading down to the sea from dramatic clifftops.
We’ve gathered together some of the best waterfall walks in Cornwall. Take a look and find your new favourite place.
Golitha Falls, Bodmin Moor
Golitha Falls is a series of cascades that flows through ancient Draynes Wood on Bodmin Moor. Choose a day after heavy rainfall to see these River Fowey falls at their best (taking this into account when you choose your footwear!).
There’s parking (and loos) near Golitha Falls, and you can pick up a choice of walks from here, including a mile-long circular route.
St Nectan’s Kieve, Trevethy
“Kieve” means basin, as this beautiful waterfall cascades into a crystal-clear plunge pool. St Nectan was a hermit and pilgrims have been visiting the site of his hermitage for over 1,500 years (although faery myths suggest an even older provenance…).
This much-loved place does get busy during peak times, so plan your visit in advance. There’s a fee to visit St Nectan’s and you’ll also be tempted by the welcoming cafe and gift shop…
Luxulyan Valley, St Blazey
There’s a lovely walk through the wooded valley to reach this Par River waterfall. Along the way, you’ll see glimpses of the area’s industrial past, with ruined mine buildings and old tramways. Unusually, the falls are actually formed around an abandoned waterwheel system.
There’s a car park for the valley and the walk takes around 45 minutes. Try to take in the magnificent Treffry Viaduct while you’re in Luxulyan.
Rocky Valley, Boscastle
This dramatic coastal waterfall bursts from a gorge. You can reach it from the South West Coast Path, on the stretch between Boscastle and Tintagel. Just be aware that’s this is one of the trickier sections of the path, with steep and slippy areas.
If you’re in the mood for waterfalls, there’s a 2-mile walk between Rocky Valley and St Nectan’s Kieve, passing industrial ruins and rock carvings on the way.
Pentargon Waterfall, Boscastle
Our next waterfall is also on the coast near Boscastle. Pentargon Waterfalls roars 120 feet down the cliffs into Seal’s Pool, where the ghost of a drowned maiden adds to the otherworldly atmosphere… It’s actually an incredibly pretty spot too, especially when the spring flowers are in bloom.
Park in Boscastle and head uphill towards Penally Point. There’s a 1.7-mile circular walk that takes in some glorious views (again, it’s a bit steep in places).
Lansallos Waterfall, Polperro
If you like your waterfall walk to come steeped in local legends, Lansallos beach comes with tales of smugglers and ghosts. It’s actually a very lovely beach, great for swimming and rockpooling, where the Reed Water waterfall cascades towards the sea.
Park in the National Trust car park in Lansallos village, then follow in the silent footsteps of the old smugglers along an uneven, narrow path. The beach is dog-friendly all year, so this is a lovely walk for you and your pup. Just be aware that even though it’s a good place for a dip, Lansallos Beach isn’t lifeguarded.
The Eden Project, St Blazey
Whatever the weather, the waterfall at the Eden Project is always in full flow. You’ll find it in the gorgeous rainforest biome, where you’ll be only too pleased to be sprayed with the cooling water droplets. We don’t think it’s cheating to include an indoor waterfall in our list: by the time you’ve walked up the paths in a subtropical environment, you’ve worked just as hard to see this waterfall as you would with the outdoor ones!
The Eden Project is open all year and hosts a full programme of events and activities. It’s an excellent family day out, with so many places to explore. The food, drink and shopping at Eden are also exceptional.
Holiday cottages in Cornwall
After your walk, take off your boots, sit back in a comfortable chair and run yourself a relaxing bath. If you love the idea of a walking holiday in Cornwall, treat yourself to a break in one of our luxury holiday cottages.