With holidays in full swing, it’s time for some outdoor activities and adventure in Cornwall.
Summer in Cornwall isn’t always the hot and sunny season we want it to be but it doesn’t stop us from embarking on some outdoor activities.
To be honest, summer’s usually a balance of taking it slow and staying local, and having a few family days out. With August already upon us, here are 6 outdoor activities I’m looking forward to doing before autumn arrives.
Experiencing Cornwall’s Cycle Trails.
My son, Henry, has finally learnt to ride a bike, and we’re delighted. He’s still gaining confidence but I can’t wait to go on one of Cornwall’s flat cycle trails with him. Cycling’s such a good activity to do as a family. It keeps us active, it’s quicker to get somewhere compared to walking, and there’s naturally the promise of an ice cream or pasty when we reach our destination. There’s a number of flat cycling trails in Cornwall, but the one I want to do most is The Camel Trail from Wadebridge to Padstow. In my opinion, it offers the best views especially on a sunny day.
Boat Rides and Ferry Trips.
There’s so many outdoor activities available on the water.
I love a boat ride and I’ve previously spoken about my affinity with the sea. It’s no surprise then that I’m looking to get on a boat and ride around Cornwall’s coast. I’ve already booked a rib ride in St Ives at the end of August. The last time I went on a rib ride was a few years ago in St Mawes for my Mum’s birthday. It was brilliant – there were many squeals and much laughter. It’s certainly an outdoor adventure worth repeating.
One alternative to these fast and thrilling rib rides is to hire a kayak. We often do this in the summer too, and tend to paddle around the Fal estuary from Loe Beach. SUP is another water activity I’m keen to try, but I feel like a lesson would be wise first. If you fancy something more relaxing, why not hop on one of Cornwall’s water taxi, like this one that takes you from St Mawes to Falmouth.
Much less work but just as enjoyable!
Running or Walking on the South West Coast Path.
It’s no secret that I love running on the Cornish coastpath. There’s never dull moment and it’s good for getting in some hill work. The best bit’s definitely the views, simply superb wherever you run. Plus, it’s usually quiet, which I like.
With my hip and running injury hopefully easing up (could it take any longer?), the plan is to simply go further afield while I have the time. I’ve not run much in west Cornwall, it’s quite a drive for me but I’d love to experience the coastpath near Sennen and Lands End. On the north coast, Tintagel would be good and a new one for me.
The south west coastpath is also one of the most popular places to walk in Cornwall too. At 630 miles long, there’s plenty of routes to choose from. While there are some challenging parts, there are flatter stretches. These are ideal for families, especially if you end up at the beach.
Why not try this 5k loop on the Roseland Peninsula?
Open Water Swimming.
Sea swimming has already started here and I love it!
A few weeks ago I swam from Mevagissey towards Pentewan (not all the way!) and I was totally chuffed with myself. I started open water swimming in the winter and am keen to keep it up. Now summer’s here, the sea’s warming up and it’s easier to get in. Open water, or wild swimming happens anytime here. Sometimes I’m out with the early birds before work, but it’s nice to have a dip in the evening before tea.
We usually stay local and have a fondness for sea swimming at Portscatho on the Roseland Peninsula. I’m keen to explore other, more remote spots. I’ve spotted a few secret coves, so may have to make my way to those at some point!
Surfing in Newquay.
Another outdoor activity that’s booked and ready to go! Me and my sis are hiring surf boards from Quiksilver and are heading to Cornwall’s surfing capital, Newquay.
Newquay has lots of beaches to choose from, we’ll probably pack up a picnic and go to Watergate Bay or Fistral.
I’ve only had one surf lesson before, so I’m not sure how much I’ll remember. I think a session with one of Newquay’s surf schools should happen at some point. I’m excited about it though, it’s going to fun to try and ride some waves.
Plein Air Painting.
I’ve not tried plein air painting since learning to paint at the Newlyn School of Art. It’s one of the more relaxing outdoor activities to try too. I think it’s good practice to paint outside, and Cornwall has so many spots to choose from. If you fancy painting outdoors, you could try somewhere popular and well known, like Mousehole, or walk the south west coastpath and find somewhere remote with outstanding views. I think it’s wise to travel light though when going on a day out to paint, unless you’re able to sit near your car.
Just don’t forget your flask of tea!
Cornwall offers lots of things to do outside in Summer, some are free too and are ideal for families. What would you add to the list of outdoors activities and adventure in Cornwall?