Mounts Bay Cornwall Map

Introduction

Mounts Bay is situated on the south coast of Cornwall, England. It is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, historical landmarks, vibrant nightlife, and natural wonders. This travel guide will provide you with a comprehensive list of things to do and see in Mounts Bay, including hidden gems, budget-friendly tips, and off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Top Attractions

Mounts Bay is home to some of Cornwall’s most iconic landmarks, including St Michael’s Mount, a medieval castle and tidal island, and the Minack Theatre, an open-air theatre overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Other top attractions include Land’s End, the westernmost point of mainland England, and the Tate St Ives, a world-renowned art museum.

Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, Mounts Bay has plenty of hidden gems to discover. The hidden coves and beaches of Prussia Cove are a must-see, as is the hidden valley of Nanjizal. For a taste of local history, visit the ancient village of Chysauster, a well-preserved Iron Age settlement.

Food Scene

Mounts Bay has a thriving food scene, with plenty of local seafood and farm-to-table restaurants. The Porthminster Kitchen is a popular choice for seafood lovers, while the Gurnard’s Head is known for its locally sourced ingredients and rustic charm. For a more budget-friendly option, head to the Stargazy Inn for traditional Cornish pasties and local ales.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Mounts Bay can be an expensive destination, but there are plenty of ways to save money. Pack a picnic and enjoy the many public parks and gardens, or take advantage of the free museums and galleries in St Ives. For affordable accommodations, consider camping or staying in a self-catering cottage.

Outdoor Adventures

Mounts Bay is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking, surfing, and kayaking opportunities. The South West Coast Path offers stunning views of the coastline, while the beaches of Porthcurno and Sennen Cove are popular with surfers. For a unique adventure, try coasteering or sea kayaking along the rocky coastline.

Historical Landmarks

Mounts Bay is steeped in history, with plenty of ancient landmarks to explore. The Merry Maidens stone circle and the Men-an-Tol are both prehistoric sites that are open to the public. For a taste of medieval history, visit the ruins of Tintagel Castle or the historic fishing village of Mousehole.

Family-Friendly Activities

Mounts Bay is a great destination for families, with plenty of kid-friendly activities. The Paradise Park wildlife sanctuary is a must-visit, as is the Flambards Theme Park, which has rides and attractions for all ages. For a more educational experience, head to the National Maritime Museum Cornwall or the Geevor Tin Mine.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences

For a truly unique experience, try visiting some of Mounts Bay’s more unusual attractions. The Leach Pottery is a working pottery studio that offers pottery workshops and tours, while the Isles of Scilly are an archipelago of five inhabited islands that can only be reached by boat or plane.

Natural Wonders

Mounts Bay is home to some of Cornwall’s most spectacular natural wonders. The Minack Theatre and St Michael’s Mount are both set against stunning coastal backdrops, while the Logan Rock is a natural rock formation that has been standing for thousands of years. For a taste of the wild, head to the Lizard Peninsula, a rugged and untamed landscape that is home to rare flora and fauna.

Vibrant Nightlife

Mounts Bay has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of pubs, clubs, and bars to choose from. The Admiral Benbow is a popular choice for live music and local ales, while the Rum Bar at the Old Coastguard is known for its extensive rum selection. For a more laid-back evening, head to the Godolphin Arms for a drink with a view.

Local Markets

Mounts Bay has a thriving local market scene, with plenty of fresh produce and artisanal goods on offer. The St Ives Farmers’ Market is a must-visit for foodies, while the Penzance Market is a great place to pick up souvenirs and handmade crafts. For a truly unique experience, head to the Porthleven Harbour Market, which takes place on the quayside of the picturesque fishing village.

Beaches and Mountains

Mounts Bay is known for its stunning beaches and mountains. Porthcurno Beach is a favourite among locals and tourists alike, while the rugged cliffs of Land’s End offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. For a taste of the mountains, head to the rugged moors of Bodmin Moor, a wild and untamed landscape that is perfect for hiking and exploring.

Cultural Immersion

Mounts Bay is a great destination for cultural immersion, with plenty of opportunities to learn about local traditions and customs. The Golowan Festival in Penzance is a celebration of Cornish culture and heritage, while the St Ives September Festival is a celebration of music, art, and literature. For a more traditional experience, head to the Mazey Day celebrations in Penzance, which take place in June.

Art and Music Scene

Mounts Bay has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries and live music venues to choose from. The Tate St Ives is a must-visit for art lovers, while the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden is a great place to learn about the life and work of the renowned sculptor. For live music, head to the Acorn Theatre in Penzance or the St Ives Jazz Club.

Walking Tours

Mounts Bay is a great destination for walking tours, with plenty of guided tours and self-guided walks to choose from. The St Michael’s Mount Causeway Walk is a popular choice, as is the South West Coast Path, which offers stunning views of the coastline. For a taste of local history, take a walking tour of Penzance or St Ives, both of which have rich histories and plenty of landmarks to explore.

Architectural Marvels

Mounts Bay is home to some of Cornwall’s most impressive architectural marvels. The Minack Theatre is a unique open-air theatre built into the cliffside, while St Michael’s Mount is a medieval castle and church that has stood for centuries. For a taste of local architecture, head to the fishing village of Mousehole, which has a rich history and plenty of traditional buildings to explore.

Historical Sites

Mounts Bay is steeped in history, with plenty of historical sites to explore. The Tintagel Castle ruins are a must-visit for history buffs, as is the St Ives Museum, which has exhibits on local history and traditions. For a taste of medieval history, head to the historic fishing village of Mousehole, which has a rich history and plenty of traditional buildings to explore.

Biking Routes

Mounts Bay is a great destination for cycling, with plenty of scenic routes to choose from. The Camel Trail is a popular choice, as is the Mineral Tramways Trail, which offers stunning views of the Cornish countryside. For a more challenging ride, head to the Lizard Peninsula, a rugged and untamed landscape that is perfect for mountain biking.

Wellness Retreats

Mounts Bay is a great destination for wellness retreats, with plenty of spas and retreat centres to choose from. The Scarlet Hotel in Mawgan Porth is a luxurious spa that offers a range of treatments and therapies, while the Bedruthan Hotel and Spa in Newquay is known for its stunning sea views and holistic treatments. For a more rustic retreat, head to the eco-friendly Yurt Retreat in Falmouth.

Adventure Sports

Mounts Bay is a paradise for adventure sports enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for surfing, kayaking, coasteering, and more. The beaches of Porthcurno and Sennen Cove are popular with surfers, while the rocky coastline is perfect for coasteering and sea kayaking. For a truly unique experience, try a stand-up paddleboarding tour of the coast.

With so much to see and do in Mounts Bay, it’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Cornwall. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, or cultural immersion, Mounts Bay has something to offer everyone. So why not start planning your trip today?