It’s time for another short 5k run, and there’s nothing better than discovering a part of Cornwall I’ve never been to before. I hope you’re ready for some pretty beach views and a healthy dose of sweet, unspoilt coves. This running route’s a corker.
I can’t believe I’ve never been to either Poldhu or Mullion Cove before. After running this coastal route, I know I’ll definitely be back, if only for a famous hot chocolate from Poldhu Beach Cafe! Not only is it another route with amazing coastal views, but it includes 3 coves and beaches along the way. As you can imagine, I spent a lot of time taking photos as it’s so pretty.
My run starts in Mullion, on the Lizard Peninsula in west Cornwall. It’s just up the road from Mullion Cove, a popular coastal retreat in Cornwall. In fact, it’s only a short drive to Kynance Cove, which I’d also recommend for a day out.
You can find out more about Kynance in my post, Visiting Kynance Cove: 14 FAQs.
As is usually the case with my running routes, I get the road section out of the way first, before hitting the trails and south west coast path. This route to Poldhu Cove, and Mullion Cove, is no different.
Parking at Mullion is easy. There’s a large car park on the left as you make your way through the village. There’s parking further down, a small car park closer to Mullion Cove, but it’s small. If you’re visiting Mullion Cove in peak season, I’d imagine spaces here are like gold dust.
Heading to Poldhu Cove from Mullion Cove
I was quite excited about running to Poldhu Beach. I’d never been before but have seen plenty of photos that secured its position on my ‘places to go in Cornwall’ list. Before I got there, I had to run a gradual incline out of Mullion.
Running towards Poldhu Cove, I made my way to the left on the one way system. I may’ve been running on the road, but there were some pretty village vibes going on. Once I veered left off the one way system, I was on a downhill stretch to the sea.
I arrived at Poldhu Cove at low tide. The bay’s so long when the tide’s out, revealing a wonderful expanse of golden sand. A total delight for those out for an afternoon stroll and a dog walk.
Poldhu beach cafe was buzzing with people sat (sensibly) outside. It’s so good to see businesses opening up again, isn’t it?
From Poldhu Cove to Polurrian Cove
At Poldu Cove, I met up with the south west coast path and could see what was the Poldhu Hotel. I’ve since learnt that it’s the place where Guglielmo Marco sent the first transatlantic radio message, in 1901. There’s a Marconi monument just beyond Mên-y-grib Point to mark the location – it’s pretty impressive.
I clearly decided to run from Mullion to Poldhu Cove on a good day in early Spring. The sun came out and the blues of the Cornish coast worked their magic. This is a truly beautiful route, more so as seasonal flowers were making an appearance, framing the coastline perfectly.
It wasn’t long before the coast path led me to Polurrian Cove. Another new beach to me, and what a perfect spot!
While this beach is accessible, you can only do so from the coast path. There’s no immediate parking so I’m guessing it’s one of Cornwall’s hidden gems. It even has a little patch of sand as the tide comes in, which reminds me a little of Pedn Vounder beach, also in West Cornwall.
If you’re interested, I have a blog post on visiting Pedn Vounder beach.
Polurrian Cove to Mullion Cove
From Polurrian, there’s not far to go before the Mullion Cove Hotel appears (which looks like the perfect place to stay and unwind).
The views are great!
The coast path leads to an old cannon. As I edge my way down the path, the sea couldn’t brighter and I can’t quite believe that I’ve discovered and experienced 3 wonderful beaches along this 5k running route. To make it even better, it’s not ridiculously hilly either, like some of the south west coast path.
I couldn’t help but take some time at Mullion Cove. It’s incredibly small and peaceful, but traditional. Old fisherman buildings with nets and pots stacked high, and the old harbour walls which have probably been in situ since the 1890s (partly funded by Lord Robartes, from Lanhydrock House). It’s these characteristics and views I love the most, especially when it’s so quiet and sleepy.
I eventually decide to leave Mullion Cove and head back up the road to my car. I can see there’s more coves to explore further along the coast. That’s another run right there, hopefully a bit longer next time too.
