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Whether you love reading on the beach or running on it, Cornwall has plenty of activities on offer amongst beautiful scenery!

If you’re a particularly active person in search of adventure sports, you will be pleased to know that Cornwall is a prime spot for sports activities, especially watersports! We take a look at Cornwall’s top activities and the best locations to experience them.

After an active day, what better way to unwind than in one of our luxury hot tub cottages Cornwall? The Valley specialises in beautiful self-catering holiday cottages nestled in peaceful countryside. A short distance from exhilarating attractions, including beaches and heritage sites, it is ideal for those who love to explore!

A beach on Cornwall’s South West Coast Path

Hiking and Running

Cornwall is inundated with vast and stunning countryside and the county is most famous for being home to the South West Coast Path. The path outlines the South West coast, including the whole of Cornwall, starting in Minehead, Devon, and ending in Poole Harbour.

There are various walks you can experience throughout the path ,and you can do as much or as little as you want.

Some of our favourite walks include The Lizard Peninsula, Pentire Point & The Rumps and Talland Bay & Looe.

If you are an avid runner, the path is ideal for those who want to put on your running shoes and experience all it has to offer at a faster pace!

A man stood next to his bike looking at the beach

Cycling

If you want to travel further and faster, cycling might be the perfect sport to experience while staying in Cornwall. The county is home to plenty of cycling trails, and many are traffic-free.

Located near St Austell, The Clay Trails consist of five pathways which showcase the dramatic scenery belonging to the area. Visitors can enjoy them by walking, cycling and horse riding!

Another great place to explore by bike is Seaton Valley Countryside Park. The trial explores the countryside, riverside and the coast. It is perfect for spotting wildlife, including dormice, kingfishers and butterflies!

Cornish Hurling

Not to be confused with Irish hurling, Cornish Hurling is a unique sport belonging to the county.

It is one of Cornwall’s most original customs and has a history dating back to about one thousand years ago. It is quite a rough game where opposing teams try to keep the possession of a silver-coated ball.

It is now only played once a year in St Columb Major and St Ives. You can see locals play at the St Ives Feast, which is an annual event on the first Monday after 3rd February.

Rock climbing ropes on a rock

Rock Climbing

If you want to try something a bit daring, rock climbing could be the ideal activity for you!

Cornwall has plenty of opportunities to try rock climbing on its dramatic cliffs! At the Lizard Peninsula, one of Cornwall’s most stunning coastlines, an adventure company called Lizard Adventure work with the National Trust to provide such experiences.

Here, you can try your hand at rock climbing, coasteering, kayaking and paddleboarding! Their range of rock climbing programmes provide anything from introductions for beginners to guidance for experienced climbers transitioning from wall to outdoor cliff, and there is something for everyone to try, no matter your age or ability!

A surfer catching a wave in a purple sunset

Surfing

Arguably, the UK’s most associated county for surfing if you want to ride some waves, there are few better places to start than in Cornwall!

Newquay is regarded as the surf mecca for the activity, with a variety of beaches and surf schools in the town and surrounding it. Sennen Cove is another popular spot which is favoured due to its sheltered beach.

For those just starting, a beginners lesson is thoroughly recommended as it will provide you with invaluable advice as well as teach you the basics of beach safety.

That concludes our top pick of watersports in Cornwall! Don’t forget to check out others such as bodyboarding, swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and coasteering! Cornwall provides a whole host of activities while being surrounded by some of Britain’s most inspiring scenery!

What are you hoping to master on your next visit to Cornwall? Why not let us know on our social media channels!