The best walks and hikes around Landrake With St Erney

The terrain is quite varied. You can expect to encounter rolling hills, agricultural landscapes, and ancient woodlands. The area is defined by its position on high ground between the tidal valleys of the River Lynher and the River Tiddy. Hikes often follow a network of classic narrow Cornish lanes and public footpaths, with some routes including ascents to viewpoints and sections along the riverbanks.

Yes, there are many circular routes to choose from. A great example of a moderate loop is the Coastpath loop from Sheviok, which combines coastal sections with ascents to rewarding viewpoints. You'll find numerous other loops of varying lengths and difficulties across the region.

Many trails in the Landrake with St Erney area are suitable for walking with dogs, especially through the open countryside and woodlands. However, always be mindful of livestock in agricultural fields and keep your dog on a lead where required. Some areas, like the Churchtown Farm Nature Reserve, have specific rules to protect wildlife, so it's best to check local signage upon arrival.

Yes, there are plenty of easier options perfect for a family outing. The View of Portwrinkle – Tregantle Fort loop from Crafthole is a relatively gentle walk that still offers lovely coastal scenery. The trails within the Churchtown Farm Nature Reserve are also generally accessible and provide great opportunities for spotting wildlife.

For those seeking a more strenuous challenge, the Portwrinkle Beach – View of Looe Bay loop from Crafthole is an excellent choice. This long-distance trail covers nearly 25 km and involves significant elevation gain, rewarding hikers with expansive coastal views. The wider Tamar Valley also offers an extensive network of paths for longer adventures.

Parking is typically available in small car parks near popular trailheads or in the villages themselves, such as Crafthole or Forder. For routes starting from nature reserves like Churchtown Farm, there are usually designated parking areas. It's always a good idea to arrive early, especially on weekends, as spaces can be limited.

The trails around Landrake with St Erney are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the beautiful riverside scenery, the mix of woodland and coastal paths, and the tranquility of the rural Cornish lanes.

Yes, you can easily combine hiking with history. Many paths pass near historical landmarks. For a sense of tranquility and history, you can explore the area around the secluded St Erney Church. The prominent St Michael's Church in Landrake is another key landmark. Along the riverbanks, you might also spot remnants of the area's industrial past, like old quays and lime kilns.

The region is a haven for wildlife. The Churchtown Farm Nature Reserve is particularly rich in biodiversity, with its mix of mudflats, woodland, and meadows. Keep an eye out for bird species like oystercatchers, redshanks, and greenshanks along the River Lynher. In the wider Tamar Valley, you might even be lucky enough to spot otters, dippers, and kingfishers.

There are over 140 hiking routes to explore around Landrake with St Erney. The selection is almost evenly split between easy and moderate trails, with a few difficult options for experienced hikers, ensuring there's a path suitable for every ability level.

Yes, some routes in the area pass by historical military installations. The Tregantle Firing Range – Tregantle Fort loop from Crafthole takes you near these historic defences. It's important to always obey any signage and stick to the public footpaths, especially when walking near active military ranges.