With its sublime shorelines, foodie favourites and colourful countryside, Cornwall is unsurprisingly a top destination for twinkly-eyed tourists. But, despite its popularity, this charming county still has plenty of secret beaches, hidden coves, quaint villages, and tranquil walks to discover.
If you’ve got itchy feet and enjoy hopping from one stunning spot to the next, we’ve got a glorious guide of must-sees in Cornwall. All of which are just a stone’s throw away from our YHA locations, which are perfect for touring the area as you can stay for one night then jump to another homely hostel.
Beside the harbour
Where: YHA Boscastle
Loved by: cliff wanderers
Here’s the first stop on the hostel hopping itinerary. Resting in the middle of a steep-sided valley on the rugged North Cornwall coast, YHA Boscastle is an idyllic rural retreat. Standing proud over the glistening Elizabethan quay, this property is a unique building covered in a patchwork of rustic stones.
Embrace the serene atmosphere of this unspoilt harbour village which is home to traditional stone-built cottages, quaint shops and charming tearooms. If you’re up for something a little more energetic, a wander to the harbour then up on the jagged cliff tops will give you a picture-postcard view of untouched coastlines. Take this walk a step further by following the South West Coast Path which borders the ancient fields of Forrabury, before heading inland to Minster Wood where medieval monks once managed the trees.
What better way to end a refreshing ramble than with a cream tea — true Cornish style with local clotted cream. Or pull out all the stops with an evening meal at one of the nearby cosy pubs.
Glamping galore
Where: YHA Eden Project
Loved by: eco-friendly adventurers
Brilliant botanicals, environmental harmony and sleeping under the stars, known as one of Cornwall’s most recognisable attractions, YHA Eden Project is at the epicentre of sustainability and eco-friendly surroundings. Be at one with nature in one of our quirky glamping options. Curl up next to the woodburner in a premium bell tent, feel at home in one of our snug Airstream trailers or embrace the great outdoors in a Landpod.
During the day, there’s so much to see here. Go back in time with a visit to Charlestown which is just 10 minutes down the road. This pristine late-Georgian working port is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with classic tall ships, breath-taking beaches and lovely lunch spots. Be transported to the past at the Shipwreck Treasure Museum, home to a unique collection of historic artefacts and captivating exhibitions on the China Clay industry.
Make it Mediterranean with a trip to the picturesque Porthpean Beach. The sandy shores and crystal-clear waters give this serene space a true holiday feel, where you can go wild with watersports or keep it chilled with rockpool exploring.
What better way to round off a jam-packed day of adventure than with a spot of stargazing back at YHA Eden Project. Grab a glass of your favourite tipple and kick back while taking in the mind-boggling views of the Milky Way.
Peace and quiet beside the seaside
Where: YHA Coverack
Loved by: secluded beach-lovers
Think Cornwall, think secret beaches and top-drawer coastlines. That’s exactly what you’ll find at YHA Coverack. This part of our Cornish tour leads you to a quieter area, ideal for those wanting to escape the crowds for a spot of rest and relaxation. Top off your quality quiet time by sitting back and taking in panoramic views of the dazzling Atlantic Ocean from this stunning Victorian house.
Adventure-seekers thrive in this hidden Cornwall haven. If you’re a watersports fan, the Coverack Windsurfing Centre is guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping with windsurfing, kayaking and paddleboarding. Those keen for a vibrant voyage can explore the tantalising turquoise coast while on a boat trip. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the dolphins.
Round off an action-packed day with a magnificent stroll down the wide-stretching Coverack Beach. Take in a deep breath and gaze at the uninterrupted beauty of this peaceful paradise. Immerse yourself in a true Cornish experience with a dip in the cool waters to awaken the senses.
Foodie favourites and sub-tropical surprises
Where: YHA Penzance
Loved by: culture fanatics
Next stop, Penzance! Get ready to be whisked away to an authentic Cornish town steeped in history, culture and a vibrant local scene.
You’ll have an elegant Georgian mansion to call home — YHA Penzance is set within lush gardens in a quiet pocket of the town. And what a town this is. Famous for its pirates, this well-loved spot is glittered with cobbled alleyways, bobbing boats and quayside taverns.
The town’s glorious gardens are a feast for the eyes. Morrab Gardens, Penlee Park, Trengwainton Garden and St Michaels Mount are all vying for top spot. Marvel at a maze of magnificent magnolias, radiant rhododendrons and perfect peonies.
It wouldn’t be a proper Cornish experience without a trip to the beach. Sparkling with shingles, this pebbled shoreline is set back from the Edwardian seafront. At low tide, avid rock-poolers can discover the mysteries lying within the rocky landscape. Come high tide, snorkellers and wild swimmers can enjoy the delights of these calm waters.
Foodies will have a field day in what is often described as ‘Cornwall’s new gourmet capital’. From Newlyn’s famous fish market to the array of restaurants and pubs on Chapel Street, delighted diners will be in their element.
A fusion of coastal and countryside paradise
Where: YHA Land’s End
Loved by: wildlife enthusiasts
Head deep into Cornwall for this next gem. This truly unique spot is a goldmine of captivating clifftops, sublime scenery and bedazzling beaches. It’s tricky to pick between coast and countryside, but YHA Land’s End has the best of both worlds. Just a leisurely stroll from both rolling hills and sparkling shorelines, this westernmost hostel is a one-stop location for paradise.
There’s something to suit all tastes here. Go back to basics and connect with nature on a whole new level with a walk to Natural Land’s End. Prepare to be stunned by the awe-inspiring views of towering granite cliffs, the famous Longships Lighthouse and the Isles of Scilly.
Wildlife watchers will be in their element, with plenty of stunning creatures to look out for. Grab your binoculars for a spot of birdwatching — the blue skies are popular with gannets, fulmars and razorbills. If you look closely, you might be able to spot grey seals, basking sharks and dancing dolphins. The tops of the charming cliffs are bejewelled with an array of colourful gorse, heather, thrift and sea campion flowers.
Got an extra day? Top off your Cornish coastal exploration with a trip with YHA Treyarnon Bay. Being only 50 metres from the sea, this beachfront location is a hard one to beat. Whether you’re ready to ride the waves or go wild for music gigs, there’s something to suit all tastes here.
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Photo credit: Rolf / PETRA / irisphoto1 / Helen Hotson / Adobe Stock
