The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Stithians Reservoir

There are over 20 dog-friendly hiking trails around Stithians Reservoir, offering a variety of experiences for you and your canine companion. These routes range from easy strolls to more moderate adventures, ensuring there's something for every energy level.

The majority of dog-friendly walks around Stithians Reservoir are considered easy to moderate. Out of 23 available routes, 12 are rated easy and 10 are moderate. There is also one more challenging route for those seeking a greater adventure. The main circular route around the reservoir is generally flat and accessible for most fitness levels.

Yes, Stithians Reservoir is well-known for its main circular route, which is approximately 8 km (5 miles) long and offers continuous scenic views. Many of the dog-friendly trails in the area are also circular, such as the easy St Mabe Church – Stream Along the Footpath loop from Mabe, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps.

Dog-friendly hikes around Stithians Reservoir offer a diverse range of landscapes. You'll encounter picturesque farmland, open moorland, tranquil meadows, wet woodland, and heathland. The trails often provide uninterrupted views across the reservoir's calm waters, and on clear days, you might even spot Carn Menellis in the distance. The area is also rich in wildlife, with two designated Nature Reserves.

Absolutely. For an easy and shorter option, consider the Slice of Cornwall Café – Woodland Walk Along the River loop from Constantine, which is just over 2.5 km. Another gentle option is the Woodland Walk Along the River loop from Constantine, which is around 5.3 km and rated easy. These routes are perfect for a relaxed outing with your dog.

While many paths are gravel or wide, some sections can be narrower, overgrown, or muddy, especially after rain. Appropriate footwear is recommended for both you and your dog. Be aware that a 1 km section of the main circular walk follows a busy road without a pavement, so extra caution and keeping your dog on a lead are essential there.

Yes, there is an onsite café, often known as Wild Vibes Cafe or Farm to Fork Cafe, which offers refreshments and meals with lake views. It's a great spot to relax after a walk. While specific dog-friendly policies can vary, many establishments in Cornwall are welcoming to well-behaved dogs, so it's always a good idea to check directly with local pubs or cafes nearby.

Stithians Reservoir is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful seasonal colours. In winter, the area can be quite open and at a high altitude, leading to windy conditions, so dressing warmly is advisable. Summer can be lovely, but always ensure your dog has access to water and shade.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from nearly 500 ratings. Reviewers often praise the beautiful waterside and rural landscapes, the accessibility of the trails, and the abundance of wildlife. The variety of routes, from easy strolls to longer loops like the Stream Along the Footpath – Argal Reservoir loop from Mabe, is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, Stithians Reservoir is a haven for wildlife. The area includes two designated Nature Reserves and three bird hides, making it excellent for birdwatching. You might spot rare waders, wintering wild swans, grey geese, and even ospreys in the autumn. While enjoying the wildlife, please keep your dog under control, especially near sensitive habitats, to avoid disturbing the animals.

Yes, there are parking facilities available at Stithians Reservoir, making it convenient for dog walkers to access the trails. These are typically located near the main activity areas and the café. Always check for any parking fees or specific regulations upon arrival.