This untamed and beautiful landscape is best explored on foot, horseback or by bike. Why not put on your stoutest walking boots and hike up Rough Tor and Brown Willy, which are the two highest peaks in Cornwall. From here in the heart of Bodmin Moor you can have views to the north coast and the Atlantic Ocean or to the south coast and the English Channel. Today Bodmin Moor is protected as a world Heritage Site and one of Cornwall’s designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, why not stop at Jamaica Inn in the heart of Bodmin Moor for a taste of the swashbuckling days of pirates and smugglers.
Bodmin
Hotels
|
Guest Houses
Near Bodmin are the splendid grand houses and gardens of Lanhydrock and Pencarrow as are the atmospheric Cardinham Woods; the most dramatic time to visit is in spring when the wood is flooded by colour when the ground is covered by bluebells. Bodmin is an ideal starting point for cycling down the famous Camel Trail, which winds its way alongside the River Camel amongst dense woodlands and dramatic Cornish scenery. Why not stop and have a breather at the Camel Valley Vineyard where you can sample their award winning Cornish wines.
Camelford
Hotels
|
Guest Houses
On the edge of Bodmin moor is the tranquil riverside town of Camelford, which is full of history and surrounded by the legend of King Arthur. Close by is Slaughterbridge and as the name suggests, here ‘King Arthur’s Stone’ marks the site of an ancient battle where a warrior king met an untimely death.
Launceston
Hotels
|
Guest Houses
There are many cycle routes circling the area, along which to explore the luxuriant river valleys and undulating countryside that surround the town. Standing on top of a hill are the remains of the daunting 11th Century round castle that dominates the town and it affords panoramic views of Launceston and the adjoining landscape.
Liskeard
Hotels
|
Guest Houses
Liskeard is an ancient stannery and market town, adjoined by lush countryside and natural landscapes. Why not ride on the Looe Valley line, one of Britain’s most scenic railways. Visit the amazing Golitha Falls where the River Fowey cascades down the protected valley. Or you could venture onto Bodmin Moor to see the ancient Cheesewring, an amazing natural rock formation. Maybe watch a band play at Carnglaze Caverns or visit a pub for a bite to eat in one of the moorland villages of St Cleer, Upton Cross or St Neot.
Saltash
Hotels
|
Guest Houses
This town became the gateway to Cornwall when Brunel built the railway bridge from Plymouth to Saltash linking Cornwall to London. Follow the town’s heritage trail to Mary Newman’s cottage, which is reputably the home of Sir Frances Drake’s first wife. You can sail on the river Tamar, which is the natural divide between Cornwall and Devon (or between Cornwall and England which many Cornish people will say!) Or if you fancy a round of golf, China Fleet is on the banks of the river or the championship course at St Mellion.
The Tamar Valley
Hotels
|
Guest Houses
The Cornish side of the Tamar Valley is a luxuriant and leafy stretch of the river and is now part of a World Heritage Site and designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There is a maze of footpaths for exploring the area or take a bus or train to view this beautiful area from a different angle. Why not visit the ancient market town of Callington where you can follow the famous Mural Trail. The National Trust’s Cotehele House has magnificent gardens and woodlands leading down to the riverside. The Tamar passenger ferry at Cotehele Quay will take you on a trip to the village of Calstock.