With its sublime shorelines, foodie favourites and colourful countryside, Cornwall is unsurprisingly a top destination for twinkly-eyed tourists. But, despite its popularity, this charming county still has plenty of secret beaches, hidden coves, quaint villages, and tranquil walks to discover.
If you’ve got itchy feet and enjoy hopping from one stunning spot to the next, we’ve got a glorious guide of must-sees in Cornwall. All of which are just a stone’s throw away from our YHA locations, which are perfect for touring the area as you can stay for one night then jump to another homely hostel.
Beside the harbour
Where: YHA Boscastle
Loved by: Cliff wanderers
Here’s the first stop on the hostel hopping itinerary. Resting in the middle of a steep-sided valley on the rugged North Cornwall coast, YHA Boscastle is an idyllic rural retreat. Standing proud over the glistening Elizabethan quay, this property is a unique building covered in a patchwork of rustic stones.
Embrace the serene atmosphere of this unspoilt harbour village which is home to traditional stone-built cottages, quaint shops and charming tearooms. If you’re up for something a little more energetic, a wander to the harbour then up on the jagged cliff tops will give you a picture-postcard view of untouched coastlines. Take this walk a step further by following the South West Coast Path which borders the ancient fields of Forrabury, before heading inland to Minster Wood where medieval monks once managed the trees.
What better way to end a refreshing ramble than with a cream tea — true Cornish style with local clotted cream. Or pull out all the stops with an evening meal at one of the nearby cosy pubs.
Foodie favourites and sub-tropical surprises
Where: YHA Penzance
Loved by: Culture fanatics
Next stop, Penzance! Get ready to be whisked away to an authentic Cornish town steeped in history, culture and a vibrant local scene.
You’ll have an elegant Georgian mansion to call home — YHA Penzance is set within lush gardens in a quiet pocket of the town. And what a town this is. Famous for its pirates, this well-loved spot is glittered with cobbled alleyways, bobbing boats and quayside taverns.
The town’s glorious gardens are a feast for the eyes. Morrab Gardens, Penlee Park, Trengwainton Garden and St Michaels Mount are all vying for top spot. Marvel at a maze of magnificent magnolias, radiant rhododendrons and perfect peonies.
It wouldn’t be a proper Cornish experience without a trip to the beach. Sparkling with shingles, this pebbled shoreline is set back from the Edwardian seafront. At low tide, avid rock-poolers can discover the mysteries lying within the rocky landscape. Come high tide, snorkellers and wild swimmers can enjoy the delights of these calm waters.
Foodies will have a field day in what is often described as ‘Cornwall’s new gourmet capital’. From Newlyn’s famous fish market to the array of restaurants and pubs on Chapel Street, delighted diners will be in their element.
A fusion of coastal and countryside paradise
Where: YHA Land’s End
Loved by: Wildlife enthusiasts
Head deep into Cornwall for this next gem. This truly unique spot is a goldmine of captivating clifftops, sublime scenery and bedazzling beaches. It’s tricky to pick between coast and countryside, but YHA Land’s End has the best of both worlds. Just a leisurely stroll from both rolling hills and sparkling shorelines, this westernmost hostel is a one-stop location for paradise.
There’s something to suit all tastes here. Go back to basics and connect with nature on a whole new level with a walk to Natural Land’s End. Prepare to be stunned by the awe-inspiring views of towering granite cliffs, the famous Longships Lighthouse and the Isles of Scilly.
Wildlife watchers will be in their element, with plenty of stunning creatures to look out for. Grab your binoculars for a spot of birdwatching — the blue skies are popular with gannets, fulmars and razorbills. If you look closely, you might be able to spot grey seals, basking sharks and dancing dolphins. The tops of the charming cliffs are bejewelled with an array of colourful gorse, heather, thrift and sea campion flowers.
YHA Treyarnon Bay
Got an extra day? Top off your Cornish coastal exploration with a trip with YHA Treyarnon Bay. Being only 50m from the sea, this beachfront location is a hard one to beat. Whether you’re ready to ride the waves or go wild for music gigs, there’s something to suit all tastes here.
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