Walk 1

Portscatho, Pendower and Philleigh
Distance: 8 miles

Enjoy the stunning coastal and inland views of the Roseland Peninsula on this leisurely walk which takes you through picturesque villages, rural working farms and top bathing beaches. Combined with a relatively lengthy stop for lunch, the walk should not take longer than 5 hours to complete.

The triangular route begins at the ‘harbour of boats’ known locally as Portscatho heading north towards Pendower Beach. Visit Dingerein Castle, a Celtic Iron Age fort believed to be the ruined palace remains of the mythical Dark Age King, Gerent. From Pendower head towards Philleigh passing several typical Cornish farms and Treworthal, a pretty little hamlet with thatched cottages, red phone kiosk and a post box dating back to the reign of Queen Victoria.

Stop for lunch and light refreshments in the sleepy little village of Philleigh, once part of the pilgrims’ Way to St Michael’s Mount and originally named ‘Eglosros’ in the Domesday Book after its church which stands prominent in the village. Once rested, follow the paths back to Portscatho via the A3078.

A shorter 4 mile version of this walk is possible, omitting Pendower and Philleigh. A pair of wellies and a stick may come in very useful on some of the inland paths.

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