4.7
(577)
5,690
hikers
168
hikes
Hiking around The Loe offers routes through a unique landscape centered on Cornwall's largest natural freshwater lake, Loe Pool. This area is characterized by tranquil waters, extensive woodlands of the National Trust-administered Penrose Estate, and the prominent Loe Bar, a sand and shingle bank separating the lake from Mount's Bay. The terrain provides a mix of lakeside paths and coastal views, all within a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
5.0
(5)
106
hikers
7.14km
01:57
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
32
hikers
4.03km
01:07
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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9
hikers
5.37km
01:23
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
2.74km
00:46
60m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
3.45km
00:57
60m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A great view over the harbor and town of Porthleven.
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lovely little footpath up to the bench/down to the harbour
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Loe Bar is the name of the sand bank separating the lake from the sea. The lake, known as the Loe, is the largest freshwater lake in Cornwall. It was once the mouth of the River Cober. Some say the Loe Bar was formed when two local giants had an argument and one of them dropped a bag of sand here as he was being attacked by the other who was throwing rocks at him, one of the rocks being St Michael's Mount. No wonder he was keen to get away!
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The Loe, also called Loe Pool, is a freshwater lake cared for by the National Trust. Loe actually means 'pool' in Cornish, so Loe Pool is really like saying pool pool! Recently a lot of hard work has gone into improving the declining water quality of the Loe, caused by nearby sewerage treatment works and agricultural run-off. Legend has it that this is where King Arthur threw his sword Excalibur, although it has never been found...
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Beautiful little coastal village lying on the south of Cornwall. We stayed here on night two of our West Kernow Way adventure at the Harbour Inn. They were bike friendly and served great food. We watched surfers in the sea and the sun going down before tucking into local fish and chips.
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There are over 100 easy hiking trails around The Loe, offering a variety of experiences from lakeside paths to coastal views. In total, the area features over 170 routes for various activity levels.
Easy hikes around The Loe typically feature well-maintained lakeside paths, gentle woodland trails within the Penrose Estate, and sections with coastal views over Loe Bar. The terrain is generally flat or gently undulating, making it suitable for relaxed outings.
Yes, many easy routes around The Loe are circular. For example, the Loe Pool – The Loe loop from Porthleven is a popular 4 km circular trail offering views of the freshwater lake and surrounding woodlands. Another option is the Loe Bar loop from Gunwalloe, a shorter 2.7 km route that explores the distinctive shingle bank.
Easy hikes around The Loe offer views of the tranquil Loe Pool, Cornwall's largest natural freshwater lake, and the unique Loe Bar, a shingle bank separating the lake from Mount's Bay. You'll also pass through the beautiful woodlands of the National Trust's Penrose Estate. The area is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), highlighting its ecological importance.
Absolutely. The Loe is an excellent destination for family-friendly walks due to its generally easy and well-defined paths. The gentle gradients and scenic environment make it enjoyable for all ages. Many routes, like the Lakeside Café – Loe Pool loop from Porthleven, are ideal for a relaxed family outing.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails around The Loe, particularly within the Penrose Estate. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock, wildlife, and during bird nesting seasons, as the area is an important habitat for many species.
Parking is available at various points around The Loe, often managed by the National Trust within the Penrose Estate. Specific car parks can be found near popular starting points for trails, such as those accessible from Porthleven or Gunwalloe. Always check local signage for parking fees and regulations.
While public transport options might be limited directly to all trailheads, nearby towns like Helston offer bus services. From Helston, you may be able to access parts of the Penrose Estate or the Loe Pool area, though some walking might be required to reach specific starting points.
The Loe offers pleasant easy hiking experiences year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer provides warm weather for lakeside strolls, and autumn showcases vibrant foliage in the woodlands. Winter can be beautiful with fewer crowds, but paths might be muddy, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 500 reviews. Reviewers often praise the tranquil beauty of Loe Pool, the dramatic views from Loe Bar, and the peaceful, well-maintained paths through the Penrose Estate woodlands. Many appreciate the ease of access and the variety of short, scenic loops available.
Yes, you can find amenities near The Loe. The nearby town of Porthleven, a common starting point for several routes, offers various cafes, pubs, and restaurants. There are also occasional facilities within the Penrose Estate itself, such as the Lakeside Café mentioned in the Lakeside Café – Loe Pool loop from Porthleven route.
Easy hikes around The Loe vary in length and duration. Many popular routes, such as the Loe Pool loop from Porthleven (3.45 km), can be completed in under an hour. Longer easy trails, like The Loe and Loe Bar – Loe Bar loop from Porthleven (5.9 km), might take around 1.5 hours, allowing for a more extended, relaxed walk.


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