Hiking along the cliffs
The sight of waves crashing against the rugged cliffs remains eternally awe-inspiring, regardless of how many times one witnesses it. The crystal-clear aqua-blue waters stand in stark contrast to the immense, dark rocks, while the white foam of the waves adds an even more luminous quality to the scene. The rocks, with their endless array of shapes, are a testament to the ever-changing forces at play. They are sculpted by the relentless waves, sometimes crumbling or fragmenting, yet the indomitable sea endures. It's fascinating to observe how the rocks, even when they break, give birth to new forms and intriguing structures within the embrace of the ocean.
I've explored the north coast of Cornwall from Bedruthan Steps (Carnewas) up to Widemouth and every part of it is wonderful. The South West Coast Path, the hiking trail that runs along the coastline of Devon and Cornwall, often runs here literally along the cliff-edges, making hiking a real adventure.
In this story, I will share with you my favourite spots, each of which will get it's own photo gallery. Simply because this stunning coastline deserves a proper exhibit on my travelblog.
About the tide
But first, let's talk about the tide. The tide really is a thing. It's different at every beach or cove and at every day. They say only to swim at life guarded beaches, but that is not really necessary if you put in the effort to learn about the tide and take responsibility for your own safety. Here is what I've learned so far:
Tide can come in fast or slow, be high or really high, currents can be strong or less strong. On the same beach! The best thing to do is gather some basic knowledge and then observe. Always be mindful that the waves can come in so quickly that you won't believe your eyes. So if you visit a beach that disappears with high tide, stay within reach of the entrance after the turning of the tide. Sometimes you have hours, sometimes minutes.
You don't always notice how far the tide is in, especially when you're in the water. So pick a rock(formation) on the beach that you keep an eye on and as soon as the waves come across that rock, get out of the water.
Other things that I've learned are: don't swim near rock formations, for the currents are different and often strong, either smashing you against the rocks or drawing you out into the sea.
Don't swim at high tide if you don't know the rock formations that are underneath the water.
Personally I don't really swim, I bath in the waves where they come ashore which is big fun.
My fav spots on the Cornish coast
Explore the coastline with me:
These photo galleries will follow soon. If you like me to notify you, you can drop your email address (if you haven't done so already).