With the May half term now a happy memory, it definitely feels like the main spring and summer holiday season has properly sprung into action, hasn’t it? It’s always such a buzz!
From now on, our lovely St Ives, and indeed the whole of Cornwall, will be welcoming heaps of visitors, both familiar faces and new ones, all eager to soak up the magic this county has to offer over the coming months.
The Allure of the Ocean… and Beyond!
Of course, we all know that the stunning Cornish coastline and the call of the ocean are a massive draw for so many holidaying here. And rightly so, they’re incredible! But what if I told you there’s a whole other world of watery wonders just waiting to be explored?
Chasing Waterfalls: A Cornish Adventure
If you fancy a change from those gorgeous sandy beaches this summer, and you’re after a dose of natural beauty, why not venture out from St Ives and discover the many waterfalls tucked away throughout Cornwall? Honestly, some of them are real hidden gems, making the adventure of finding them even more exciting!
Cornwall’s waterfalls come in all shapes and sizes, from gentle woodland cascades to dramatic streams tumbling over cliff faces. Get ready for some truly spectacular sights!
Our Top Waterfall Wonders Near St Ives:
Here are a few fantastic waterfalls (and a beautiful cascading stream network!) that are within driving distance of our lovely St Ives:
Kennel Vale – A Woodland Secret
Location: Ponsanooth (Approx. 35 mins drive from St Ives)
This place is a real find! Kennel Vale boasts a series of charming, though impressive, little waterfalls nestled deep within a really picturesque woodland and an old quarry. You can even spot the remains of the old Kennel Vale gunpowder factory, dating back to the early 19th century – how interesting is that? It’s such a tranquil spot for a picnic or a wander, especially if you’re looking to escape the busier beaches on a hot day and enjoy the cool shade of the enchanting woods.
Tehidy Country Park – Cascading Woodland Beauty
Location: ILLOGAN (Approx. 30 mins drive from St Ives)
Okay, so not strictly waterfalls, but Tehidy Country Park is home to a large network of absolutely beautiful cascading streams that weave their way throughout this massive 250-acre woodland park – the largest in Cornwall! It’s brilliant for families, with over 9 miles of marked trails to explore. Parking is easy peasy with several car parks around the park. Plus, there are lakes to discover, and it’s a haven for our four-legged friends. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife, and there’s even a lovely woodland cafe for a pit stop. All this just a short drive from St Ives!
Golitha Falls – Moorland Majesty
Location: Bodmin Moor (Approx. 70 mins drive from St Ives)
Golitha Falls are probably Cornwall’s most famous waterfalls, and for good reason! They’re a series of absolutely stunning cascades along the River Fowey, right on the edge of Bodmin Moor. Set within ancient woodlands, it’s the perfect spot for a scenic hike or simply relaxing with a picnic, listening to the constant rush of the water. Top tip: try to visit after some heavy rain on the moors to see the falls at their absolute best! You’ll find them near the village of St Cleer – park at Draynes Bridge and enjoy a lovely half-mile walk through the woods to reach them.
St Nectan’s Glen – A Mystical Escape
Location: Nr Tintagel (Approx. 80 mins drive from St Ives)
St Nectan’s Kieve, the main waterfall here, is a truly beautiful and unspoilt haven for wildlife and nature. This magical spot near Tintagel features a breathtaking 60-foot waterfall that dramatically plunges through a hole in the rocks, creating a 20-foot deep pool below. The surrounding mystical woodland is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, making this a must-visit waterfall on your Cornish adventure from St Ives.
Rocky Valley – Coastal Walks and Waterfalls
Location: Near Boscastle (Approx. 80 mins drive from St Ives)
Calling all keen walkers and explorers! A bracing walk along the South West Coast Path through Rocky Valley is a real treat. Here you’ll discover waterfalls, intriguing cauldrons, and dramatic gorges within this really picturesque valley. It sits between Tintagel and Boscastle on the spectacular North Cornish coast. It’s just a great place to explore and soak up the natural beauty.
The Eden Project Waterfall – A Tropical Treat!
Location: Near St Austell (Approx. 60 min drive from St Ives)
If you’re visiting Cornwall, the Eden Project is definitely a ‘must-do’ for the whole family! Amongst the famous biomes, which house thousands of plant species, the tropical biome is home to a fantastic Cornish waterfall within its rainforest setting. Venture across the wobbly rope bridge, and you’ll arrive at the waterfall and even discover an authentic Malaysian House right in the heart of it!
Luxulyan Valley Waterfall – Industrial History and Natural Beauty
Location: Near St Blazey (Approx. 55 mins drive from St Ives)
The Luxulyan Valley, close to the village of Luxulyan near St Austell, is where the River Par flows through a beautiful wooded landscape alongside the fascinating ruins of Cornwall’s past industrial mining era. The valley boasts a pretty series of fast-flowing waterfalls and is also a brilliant place for a walk to uncover this hidden gem on a day out.
Your Cornish Adventure Awaits!
So there you have it! As you can see, there’s so much more to Cornwall than just its stunning coastline and beautiful beaches, and all of these incredible places are within easy reach for a day trip from St Ives. We’re feeling pretty inspired, and we hope you are too!
If you’re planning a holiday to Cornwall to explore all this natural beauty, why not make St Ives your base and stay in one of our fabulous Cherished Cottages?
Oh, and great news for all you dog lovers – all these waterfalls and woodlands are dog-friendly! So don’t forget your four-legged friends and be sure to check out our pet-friendly cottages/category/property-features/pet-friendly/!
