Cornwall is an undeniably amazing place. Of course, there’s the typical places to head out and see: the Eden Project, Land’s End and St Michael’s Mount – incredible, but everyone already knows about those. Here at The Bowgie Inn, it’s the little surprises that hide around every corner which make us fall in love with Cornwall that little bit more, every single day!
So, whether you’re an adventurous visitor or a Kernow local looking for something you’ve never experienced before – we’ve picked out the best hidden gems that the South West has to offer, just for you!
Crantock Beach and The Gannel
The most picturesque spot in Cornwall?! Located at the mouth of the River Gannel, the breathtaking landscapes of Crantock Beach are well suited to both all-action guests and those taking life at a slower pace. Ideal for any kind of water sport or just taking a cruise downriver, there’s something new to do each time you visit Crantock – ask a local for directions to Polly Joke, you won’t be disappointed!
But, for the best views (as well as the ultimate place to enjoy them!), The Bowgie Inn’s beer garden just so happens to be perched overlooking Crantock Beach on the West Pentire Headland! From here, you can take in Crantock Beach itself, the stretching Gannel and their impressive headlands – all with a pint in hand.
Carnglaze Caverns
A beautiful byproduct of Cornwall’s labour-fuelled past, the caverns at Carnglaze are entirely man-made. Descending 60m below ground and 150m into the hillside itself, the exposed rock and still pools are truly mesmerising. Formerly a slate quarry, the caves are now a Cornish Mining World Heritage Site, hosting educational guided tours in the day before transforming to host a range of eclectic concerts in the evenings!
St Nectans Glen
When you hear the words ’60ft waterfall’, you probably imagine a tropical paradise, sadly located in some far-off land. But, such an idyllic scene is closer than you think. Throughout a scenic woodland walk, St Nectans Glen delights with its 3 (yes, 3!) natural waterfalls. The glistening water only accentuates the brilliant woodland greens of the plant life, making the surrounding exposed slate walls a real feast for the eyes.
Known locally as a sacred place, your journey towards the waterfalls is adorned with shrines, inscriptions and piles of flat stones known as ‘fairy stacks’. The accompanying sense of serenity makes St Nectans Glen the perfect place to get away from the 9-5 for some quiet reflection.
Nanjizal Beach
There was always going to be a non-Bowgie beach on this list, so since there’s over 300 to choose from in Cornwall, you better believe that this one is something special. The definition of secluded, Nanjizal features one of the most awe-inspiring natural rock arches in the world, the Zawn Pyg – ‘Song of the Sea’. When the sunlight catches this tall, narrow archway, you’ll swear you’ve accidentally wandered into an episode of Poldark!
Crantock Cave Carvings
We’re rounding off with another trip to Crantock. To the side of the beach we call home are a set of caves that hold a very special secret… The remnants of a classically tragic love story – a poem carved into the rocks themselves. The story goes that a beautiful young woman and her horse were cruelly lost to the sea, causing her lover to roam the shores in desperate hope of her return. Only revealed at low tide, these century old carvings immortalise his heartbreak, serving as a reminder of the amazing stories constantly happening around Cornwall.
There you have it! You can’t beat getting away from the crowds and finding that unexpected experience that will stay with you forever – it’s always those memories that mean the most! So, no matter whether you’re looking for the perfect place for a hearty lunch to fuel your day, or a gin and tonic as you watch the sun set on a successful trip out, we’ll always be here to welcome you!