Hello,
I've been doing research for the past couple months but don't feel like I'm very much closer to figuring out an exact itinerary. I haven't bought plane ticket yet but am planning on June 18-July 3 for time in England, and would like to do self-guided hiking/independent trip in Cornwall for roughly my first week (will train to jumping off point, then plan to book a luggage service to take my bag from spot to spot). Based on research I am leaning toward southern part of Cornwall -- perhaps Lizard Peninsula area and/or Mevagissey (sp?) area. Would like to do around 10-13 miles/day, moderate difficulty is ok. Daily budget (lodging and breakfast): 75-125 pounds. Would like a little bit of inland walking mixed in with the coastal. (Full disclosure- in my research I find I'm also interested in Devon)
Would love suggestions on a walking itinerary, places to stay each day, etc. I have looked into self-guided walks booked through companies, where they arrange housing and transfers, but as a solo, frugal traveler, I'm leaning toward doing it all myself - with your helpful suggestions, of course - LOL.
Thank you!
Posted by
San Diego
1540 posts
Don't know if you are into walking tours. I did one several years ago through a lot of Cornwall and we did walk the entire Lizard Peninsula. Stayed in different hotels and Inns each night and a bus/or truck carried our luggage to the next stop. All we carried was a rucksack .
The company I used is no longer in business, but doing a google search I see several tour companies that offer what you are looking for. I know you mention "self-guided", but I didn't search all the links for the walks.
Your trip sounds wonderful and brings back lots of great memories for me.
Hope you have a wonderful time.
Posted by
Vancouver, BC, Canada
47 posts
We have done quite a bit of self guided walking in Cornwall as we are in the process of walking the SouthWest Coastal Path. The book series we are using is published by Trailblazer. The Cornwall Coast Path is in part 2 of the 3 part series. Booking everything yourself saves a considerable amount of money. Usually I use the walking companies for reference to see where they stay then use google to research out various B&B's or hostels. For one section we decided to stay in Penzance as our base and do a series of day walks using local buses to get to our starting points and getting back. This works very well especially as you will be there in the start of high season. If you google SouthWest Coastal Path you'll easily be able to figure out daily distances and where you prefer to stay. The path itself is very easy to follow, has lots of ups and downs and goes through lovely countryside as well as beautiful little villages. Using a baggage service is a great way to lighten your load and to make the hike much more enjoyable. Just to let you know most baggage service companies require a 2 bag minimum so even with only 1 bag you will be charged for 2. Even with the increase in cost using the service is great. At the time of year you are going I'd suggest that you decide soon and make your bookings early. Some of the villages are very small and getting accommodations is tough. We've also found that some B&B's want a 2 night stay so this can be done with using buses and combining 2 sections of the walk. Have a great trip.
Posted by
OP
Charlotte, NC, USA
386 posts
Thanks Frances - yes I've looked at tour companies for location ideas but the price is more than I want to pay and I've always preferred independent/self-planned travel (it's half the fun for me, not to mention a lot cheaper).
Rosemary: Thank you! Yes, I do understand I'll end up paying for 2 bags for my one. I have done a little of that - looking at companies' agendas and see if they appeal. I'm hoping to get everything booked in next month - I just need to focus! It's so hard when there are so many beautiful places.