Embrace West Cornwall's great outdoors with a week in Sennen Cove

Seven ideas for seven days by the sea

Loved for its golden beaches, clear waters and annual Christmas swim, Sennen Cove is among the most picturesque locations in the world. A paradise for surfers, walkers and sun-worshippers alike, we’ve pulled together our top tips on how to make the most of your time in the beautiful West Cornwall town. From where to eat lunch to the best coastal walks and family-friendly days out nearby, here are seven ideas for seven days in the sprawling Sennen Cove.

1. Learn to surf in world-famous waves

A visit to Sennen Cove isn’t complete without taking a dip in its much-loved waters. Having made its name as one of the best surfing beaches in the world, Sennen’s westerly location two miles off Land’s End means it picks up consistent swell that attracts surfers from all corners of the globe. While adventurous surfers will be in their element carving between turquoise tides, Sennen Cove is just as suited to beginners, with its crescent shape shielding the beach from blustery winds.

If you’re looking for tuition, Smart Surf School are on hand with year-round lessons – so you can appreciate the sprawling West Cornwall coastline in all weathers. With a British champion at the helm, their family run business offer group and private lessons, perfect for a family day in the water.

2. Stop for lunch with a view

After a morning surf, what could be better than lunch by the sea? Sennen Cove is dotted with lovely local eateries, offering everything from freshly roasted coffee to fish and chips.

For hearty Cornish breakfasts or an inventive soup of the day, head to the traditional Old Success Inn by the waterfront, or pop into Little Bo Café for coffee and cake in a more laid back setting. One of our favourites for fish and chips, The Blue Lagoon has lovely views across the ocean, so you can keep an eye out for dolphins while enjoying the catch of the day.

3. Walk the coast path and forage for supper

Keen walkers in Sennen Cove will never grow tired of having the South West Coast Path on their doorstep. Points of interest within walking distance include Nanjizal Beach and its sea cave, Maen Castle with its Iron Age fort and the open air Minack Theatre in Porthcurno. Walks around Sennen promise great diversity, combining sea views and striking headlands with rich countryside and an abundance of wildlife along the way.

For those hoping to get back to nature, Fat Hen Foraging offers courses and walking tours to explore the journey from food to plate. Comb Cornwall’s beaches in search of edible seaweed, venture into the wild in search of berries, nuts and seeds, or learn to prepare seasonal game on a one-day cookery course. With walks and courses available for families, children and groups, it’s the perfect way to combine local food with a day in the great outdoors.

4. Catch the boat to Longships Lighthouse

Blow away the cobwebs and clear your mind with a scenic boat trip around the coast. A new way to witness Cornwall’s towering granite cliffs, ancient shipwrecks and underwater habitats, Phoenix Marine run rib rides out from Sennen Cove towards Land’s End. Cruise past the active 19th century Longships Lighthouse sitting proud on the rocks, and if you’re lucky enough, spot seals and dolphins swimming alongside the boat.

For a longer three hour voyage near Penzance, opt for Marine Discovery’s catamaran boat trip around the Penwith coastline. Find yourself on the lookout for seabirds and the occasional basking shark as you pass through Porthcurno, before taking an off-shore route back to port. With the option to take the helm, experiencing Cornwall by boat is sure to prove a memorable day trip for all.

5. Take a trip to Botallack Mine

Just a 15 minute car journey from Sennen Cove sits the Poldark-famed Botallack Mine. Part of the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site, the engine house clings to the cliffs near St Just. For walkers, there’s a tranquil half hour trail leading through heathland and wildflowers, while keen historians can learn about the Tin Coast and peckish visitors duck into the Count House Workshop Café.

Embrace Cornwall’s culture and stop by for an original film screening of ‘Gorthwedh’ throughout March, or keep your binoculars nearby for incredible views across the Isles of Scilly.

6. Chase the sunset across Sennen’s three beaches

© Juan Martinez via Flickr

Arriving into Sennen Cove, it’s impossible to ignore the golden stretch of sand that merges into glistening ocean. Made up of three beaches that connect at low tide, Sennen Beach, Whitesand Bay and Gwenver Beach promise plenty of space to play, safe waters for swimming and some mesmerising sunsets.

Being the most westerly in Cornwall, Sennen’s sandy stretch makes an idyllic setting to soak up the last of the sun. On a summer’s evening, there’s nothing better than a fish and chip supper whilst watching the sun set behind Sennen’s lifeboat station. We recommend taking a seat on the pure white sand or heading up the clifftop towards Land’s End for a spectacular vantage point over the cove.

Call 01208 895 570 to plan your staycation in Sennen Cove with our team or browse our West Cornwall holiday homes for more inspiration.