Best natural monuments around Colan offer a diverse coastal landscape for exploration. The region features prominent rock formations, expansive sandy beaches, and geological features such as sea caves and natural arches. These natural attractions provide varied terrain for outdoor activities. The area's natural landmarks and viewpoints are characterized by their coastal settings.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
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To be seen at low tide and with the sun
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This section is more beautiful than the Apostles on the Great Ocean Route. And far more accessible - the SWCP is a great trail, and part of the route at the top is ok for wheel chairs.
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Great view of the beautiful bay. If I come here again, I'll try to find the way down.
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The steps have probably been closed for a while, as have all beach access at Porthcothan Beach. It's hard to tell from the highlights. The panorama is gigantic, but unfortunately there is no swimming break...
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This is the best place to appreciate the vastness and rugged beauty of this iconic stretch of Cornish coastline.
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Breathtakingly beautiful rocks of the Bedruthan Steps. Unfortunately, access to the NT car park has been closed for some time due to a rock slide. From the viewpoint and the surrounding cliffs you can still enjoy the view of the rocks and the beach.
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Beautiful view of the rocks of the Bedruthan Steps. Unfortunately the access has been closed for a while due to a rock slide.
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The natural monuments around Colan primarily feature diverse coastal landscapes. You'll find prominent rock formations like the Bedruthan Steps Rock Formations, expansive sandy beaches such as Holywell Bay Beach, and geological features including sea caves and natural arches, like the Natural Arch at Porthcothan Bay.
Yes, you can explore Holywell Cave, located under the southern cliffs of Kelsey Head. It's accessible at low tide and features colorful ceilings and limestone pools. Remember to wear sturdy shoes and bring a torch for exploration.
For breathtaking views, visit the Bedruthan Steps Rock Formations, which offer stunning granite rock formations along the coast. Another excellent spot is the Natural Arch at Porthcothan Bay, where the cliffs above provide scenic vistas.
Yes, Holywell Bay Beach and Gull Rocks is considered family-friendly, offering a long sandy beach suitable for various activities. Many of the coastal areas provide opportunities for families to enjoy the natural beauty.
The area around Colan offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous easy hikes, such as the Piran Meadows loop, or more challenging running trails. For cyclists, there are also road cycling routes available.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. For example, you can explore easy hikes around Colan, including routes like the St Columb Minor Church – Porth Beach loop. Some natural monuments, like Bedruthan Steps, involve steep steps to access the beach, offering a more challenging descent.
The Bedruthan Steps Rock Formations are a stunning coastal site. Access to the sandy beach is via a steep and narrow staircase, only available at low tide. It's crucial to check tide calendars before visiting, as the beach can be completely submerged at high tide, and swimming is prohibited due to strong currents. Paid parking is available.
Holywell Bay Beach and Gull Rocks is known for its long sandy beach and distinctive offshore rock formations. At low tide, you might spot a 69-year-old shipwreck off the coast. The area is also famous for being featured in the television series Poldark.
The Natural Arch at Porthcothan Bay is a beautiful viewpoint. At low tide, the beach widens to reveal a network of coves and caves. The cliffs above are popular for scenic rides, and the bay itself was used as Nampara Cove in the BBC series Poldark.
While Bedruthan Steps is well-known, you can find Pentire Steps Beach nearby. It's a more rugged option, offering views of Diggory Island with its natural arch. Access to the beach involves a rocky scramble, or you can walk from Bedruthan Steps at low tide, but always check tide times carefully.
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking rocky coastlines, the incredible flower splendor on the clifftops, and the dramatic geological formations. The opportunity to explore extensive sandy beaches at low tide and discover hidden coves and caves is also highly valued.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Colan: