YHA Tintagel – what a spot. Approaching in my Volkswagen campervan, I became increasingly concerned as the small road petered out into a slate-y track and it looked like I might be doing a Thelma and Louise stunt off Glebe Cliff. Thankfully I arrived safely at YHA Tintagel, which has places to park and turn around. I perched the van on the cliff-top, with the hand brake firmly on.
I was welcomed by volunteer manager Rob (a fellow inhabitant of Dorchester – what a coincidence). The kitchen and lounge is all in one room, and as I was the only hosteller around I commandeered the sunny window-seat. You couldn’t ask for a better view overlooking the sea, with binoculars thoughtfully provided. YHA Tintagel is the perfect spot for watching the sun set.
The next day, I was spoilt for choice of which direction along the coast to head out. I plumped for walking five miles north to Boscastle. First passing the church (a welcome shelter from the wind), then Tintagel Castle (currently closed as they install the new access bridge), on along the coast there are several steep ups and downs, including picturesque Rocky Valley and Bossiney Bay. As you near Boscastle, the Coastwatch building on the headland is worth the short detour, with its curious ponies. Dropping steeply down to Boscastle quay, you pass rows of lobster pots. There are numerous tea shops and an intriguing Museum of Witchcraft and Magic to visit here.
Near the Spar shop and toilets, I caught the bus back to Tintagel; it drops off in the centre of the village, allowing you to peruse the shops and visit King Arthur’s Great Halls, commemorating the legend of Arthur, on the short walk back to the hostel.
I was only staying one night but another hosteller, Susan from Manchester, recommended the coast path south to Trebarwith Bay, only 1.5 miles away, with its café and pub. Another time!
Written by Julie Musk
Discover more about YHA.
