The best walks and hikes around St. Erme

There are over 200 hiking trails around St. Erme. This includes a wide variety of options, with approximately 120 easy routes, 79 moderate trails, and a few more challenging paths for experienced hikers.

Yes, St. Erme offers many easy and family-friendly hiking options. For instance, the St Clement Church and Village loop from St. Clement is an easy 2.8-mile path that explores the village and its historic church, perfect for a relaxed outing. Another gentle option is the The Pheasant Inn – Rope Swing Over Stream loop from St. Newlyn East, which is 3.4 miles through rural paths and woodlands.

For those looking for a longer adventure, the Malpas and back from Tresillian along the Tresillian River — Cornwall trail is a moderate 5.6-mile route that follows the scenic Tresillian River. Another moderate option is the Malpas Village – Begonia Garden Seating Area loop from Truro, which covers about 5.2 miles.

Many trails in the St. Erme area are dog-friendly, especially those through rural paths and woodlands. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly when passing through farmland or areas with livestock, and to check specific route details for any restrictions. The rural nature of the region generally makes it a great place for walks with your canine companion.

Yes, many of the hiking routes around St. Erme are designed as loops, offering convenient circular walks. Examples include the St Clement Church and Village loop from St. Clement and the The Pheasant Inn – Rope Swing Over Stream loop from St. Newlyn East. These circular paths allow you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps.

While hiking around St. Erme, you can discover various points of interest. Notable attractions in the wider area include the historic Carnon Viaduct, the dramatic Cligga Head Coastal Cliffs and Ruins, and the unique Huer's Hut. Some trails also pass through charming villages with historic churches.

The best time to hike in St. Erme is generally from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is milder, and the countryside is vibrant with flora. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter hiking is possible, but trails can be muddy, and daylight hours are shorter.

While St. Erme itself is a rural area, some nearby towns like Truro offer better public transport links. From Truro, you might find bus services that can take you closer to certain trailheads. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance, as services to more remote starting points may be limited.

Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many villages and popular starting points for trails, such as St. Clement or Tresillian, often have small public car parks or roadside parking options. When planning your hike, it's recommended to check the specific route details on komoot for information on designated parking areas near the trailhead.

The hiking trails around St. Erme are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 700 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful rural landscapes, the well-maintained paths along river valleys, and the charm of the local villages. Many appreciate the variety of routes suitable for different fitness levels.

While St. Erme is inland, its proximity to the Cornish coast means that wild swimming opportunities are not far. Popular coastal spots like Perranporth Beach are within a reasonable driving distance from St. Erme. For specific wild swimming locations, it's best to research coastal areas or river spots further afield, as the immediate St. Erme area is more focused on river valleys and rural paths rather than designated swimming spots.

For hiking in St. Erme, it's advisable to wear comfortable, layered clothing suitable for varying weather conditions, as Cornish weather can be unpredictable. Sturdy walking shoes or boots are recommended, especially for muddy sections after rain. Bringing water, snacks, a map or GPS device (like komoot), and sun protection is always a good idea.