Falmouth Area and the Lizard Peninsular

Map: OS Explorer 8 - The Lizard

The coastal area around Falmouth from the Helford River to beyond Mevagissey has an exceptionally mild climate which is immediately apparent to the visitor in the sub-tropical vegetation. The area is often referred to as 'The Cornish Riviera' and is a delight to walk along this softer coastline of wooded creeks on the Helford and Fal rivers. These are really drowned valleys created eons ago when south Cornwall subsided, allowing the sea to flood in. Another lovely spot is the Roseland Peninsular opposite the fine resort of St. Mawes.

The Lizard Peninsular is England's southermost point and is important both for it's geology and botany. Spectacular high cliffs and secluded coves make for dramatic coastal walking and inland the Goonhilly Downs are home to many rare plants. In May and June a splendid scene is created by the golden gorse and white blackthorn blossom. The peninsular is relatively quiet compared with many areas of Cornwall.

Lizard Point and Kynance cove: A circular route starting at Lizard village [SW702142] and heading west to Kynance Cove [SW686133] where you can see the most spectacular scenery on the Lizard peninsular. There are numerous caves and incredible rock formations carved by the relentless sea. Here you can see cliffs streaked with the red, purple and green colours of the local serpentine rock. From Kynance follow the coast path southward to Lizard Point and then north to Church Bay [SW722144] from where you turn inland back to the start.

Roseland Peninsular: Start at Porth Farm (NT) [SW871331] and head west following the creek. There are excellent views of St. Mawes across the Percuil river. From St. Anthony you can either continue to St. Anthony Head to walk the full peninsular, or cross back to the east sea coast to return via Kilgerran Head.