5 hidden gems you must visit in Cornwall

Cornwall is bursting with world famous beaches, one of the most well known hiking trails in the UK (the South West Coast Path) and tourist-magnet towns like St Ives and Padstow. But for those craving something quieter, there are also gorgeous lesser-known spots to be found. Below are 5 hidden gems you must visit in Cornwall:

Beach – Polstreath Beach

Just a 20 minute walk away from the pretty but popular village of Mevagissey is a little beach which doesn’t receive as many visitors as expected. This could well be to do with the somewhat precarious steps to get down to it. But if you have a good head for heights then it’s worth it for the soft sand and torquouise waters. The shape of it means its very sheltered from any wind, and it’s both dog friendly year-round. Get here early and you may well have the whole place to yourself for a couple of hours.

Town – Cadgwith

There are many beautiful villages along the Cornish coast. Cadgwith is not as well known as the others, but it is a truly gorgeous spot. Wander past thatched cottages and blooming gardens to the harbour which still retains its fishing village charm. There’s not much here but that’s kind of the point – grab a sandwich from The Old Cellars Cafe and sit on the headland watching the sea, or stop into Cadgwith Cove Inn for a pint with the locals. And for the more adventurous I recommend the walk from Cadgwith to The Lizard. Keep eyes peeled for dolphins and whales!

Woodland – Tregargus Valley

After 6 years of living in Cornwall we’ve only just discovered this gem. Nicknamed ‘Hidden Valley’ this was once part of Cornwall’s booming China Clay industry. For nearly 100 years the stone was quarried and milled here and it’s these abandoned buildings that still remain, waiting to be explored. Don’t miss the beautiful flowing waterfall at the start of the walk either, it looks like something out of a magical forest! Parking is limited so please park mindfully, and take all litter and dog waste with you.

Attraction – Carn Euny Ancient Village/Chysauster Ancient Village

I’m putting these 2 together because they are similar so you can visit whichever one you want. But they are also just 5 miles apart so you could visit both if you really love history! Carn Euny’s stone houses date back to the 2nd century and in the heart of the village is a mysterious underground passage known as a fogou. Archeologists aren’t sure what this was used for; shelter, storage or ritual. Chysaunster was also settled in the Iron Age and has some terrific views of the coast on a clear day. Climb up on to the viewing platform to see the houses from above. Both villages are managed by English Heritage and are free to visit. Still hungry for more? Check out Men-an-Tol and the Merry Maidens stone circle nearby.

Area – Rame Peninsula

One of my favourite areas of Cornwall. Most people driving from Devon go straight past the Rame Peninsula. But linger here a while and you will discover stunning beaches (Tregantle Beach), proper local pubs (St John Inn) and historical properties (Mount Edgecombe). Stay in Cawsand and hike up to Rame Head for fantastic views and wild pony encounters. I’ve written a whole separate blog post about the Rame Peninsula here.

Some days it seems like Cornwall is becoming overcrowded and overrated. But for those willing to seek out new spots, there are still surprises to be found. Those were just 5 hidden gems you must visit in Cornwall, but I could list 100 more. However I recommend you find them (or simply stumble across them) by yourself. Happy exploring!