The best walks and hikes around Trevalga

Yes, many trails in the area are great for walking with dogs. The coastal paths offer fantastic scenery, but it's essential to keep dogs on a lead, especially near cliff edges and areas with livestock. St Nectan's Glen is a popular spot, and well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome in the woodland walk, though not at the waterfall itself. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.

The most famous waterfall is at St Nectan's Glen, a lush, wooded valley with a spectacular 60-foot cascade. You can reach it via the St Nectan's Waterfall – St Nectan's Glen Waterfalls loop from Tintagel. This area is highly regarded for its natural beauty and includes a walk through a temperate rainforest environment.

Yes, there are several options for families. The walk through Rocky Valley is a great choice; it's relatively level as it follows the Trevillet River through a stunning slate canyon. It's a place of exceptional beauty and features interesting Bronze Age carvings to discover. The path is owned by the National Trust and is well-maintained.

Parking within the small hamlet of Trevalga is very limited. For most hikes, it's best to use car parks in nearby Tintagel or Boscastle, or at specific attractions. For example, St Nectan's Glen has its own dedicated car park, which is a convenient starting point for walks into the glen and surrounding area. Some walkers also use laybys on the main roads, but these can fill up quickly.

Absolutely. The area is perfect for loop walks that combine dramatic coastal scenery with sheltered inland valleys. A great example is the Rocky Valley – Ladies' Window Arch loop from Boscastle. This route takes you along a stunning section of the South West Coast Path before heading inland through the beautiful Rocky Valley.

The coastline here is part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, known for having some of the highest cliffs in Cornwall. You can expect dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean, sheer slate cliffs, secluded coves, and unique rock formations. A notable feature is the 'Lady's Window', a natural arch in the rock that frames a stunning view of the sea.

There are over 150 routes to explore around Trevalga, ranging from short, easy strolls to challenging all-day hikes. The network includes sections of the South West Coast Path and numerous inland trails through woods and valleys, offering plenty of choice for all fitness levels.

The trails around Trevalga are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Hikers frequently praise the breathtaking coastal views, the unique geology of places like Rocky Valley, and the magical atmosphere of the woodland walks in St Nectan's Glen.

While the immediate coastal paths are wild and undeveloped, you can plan your walk to include a stop in nearby villages. The St Nectan’s Glen Café is located at the entrance to the woodland walk and is a popular spot for refreshments. The villages of Tintagel and Boscastle, which are start or end points for many hikes, offer a wide selection of traditional pubs and cafes.

The rugged North Cornwall coast is an adventure playground. Coasteering is very popular, involving climbing, swimming, and jumping along the rocky shoreline with a guide. You can also go kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding to explore hidden coves. For surfers, nearby beaches like Polzeath offer excellent conditions.

For most of the cliff-top sections of the South West Coast Path, the tide is not a concern. However, if your route includes plans to visit beaches, coves, or features like Merlin's Cave below Tintagel Castle, it is essential to check the tide times beforehand. Access to these areas can be completely cut off at high tide.