For those of us lucky enough to live here, one of life’s simple joys can be found in the soothing sound of a flowing stream. Here in Cornwall, we are surrounded by scenic places amongst nature’s splendor.
My favorite easy walks are in Cornwall, full of beautiful scenery and harmless animals that make you enjoy nature more than your favorite TV show.
But as summer brings many guests to our shores, some of our treasured spots have a way of getting overrun. So I thought I would pass along several waterfalls that still stay somewhat off the beaten path.
1. Golitha Falls (Bodmin Moor)
A while back I found myself wandering Bodmin Moor on one of my precious free days, simply exploring the untamed land as is my delight to do. This region contains so much wilderness that most people don’t even know exists. As my vehicle quietly rolled down some narrow lane, my eye caught a glimpse of a small sign for Golitha Falls. At first thought nothing of it, but curiosity pulled me to investigate further while time allowed.
Soon, the soothing sound of running water started growing louder. Pushing past thick ferns, an immense cascade came into view tumbling down rockface into a broad pool below. What a marvel it was to happen upon, I tell you!
I went over to the edge and rested while watching it flow in nature’s rhythms. Sometimes we all must withdraw to simply take in life’s simpler pleasures. The peace it brought did me good. Reluctant to depart, I took my fill taking it all in, and could scarcely believe a jewel like this lay hidden back on the moor!
Further along the flowing brook I wandered and found other smaller falls as well. My companion prefers capturing moments, so we spent a good time photographing the charming scene.
On the return, I noticed an artist capturing the falls’ beauty which I found rather inspiring. Definitely stoked my spirit to further explore Bodmin Moor’s secret places. You just never can tell what marvels may emerge from roaming its wild reaches.
2. St Nectan’s Kieve (near Tintagel)
It turns out the falls are not too distant from Tintagel, just off the main roadway down a small private lane. A nominal fee at the entrance helps towards upkeep of the trail. Guiding signs led us downward and soon the mighty roar of falling water swelled in the distance. Rounding a bend, the trees parted to reveal a stunning vista!
A colossal cascade tumbled through a vast opening in the stone face. Easily sixty feet or more. Forming below, a splendid pool surrounded by rock, it was truly a spectacular sight to behold – one of the finest I’ve seen around these parts for certain.
Following closer, we spied many smoothened stones artistically stacked near shore. An old story circulates of wishes made here, and so with lighthearted sentiment my companion and I added our own. Not ones for superstition as such, still it seemed a charming tradition to take part in among the magic of the place.
3. Rocky Valley (near Boscastle)
It was along the coastal road past Tintagel that I noticed a turn for Rocky Valley, though I had never ventured within prior. Curiosity took me down the narrow single lane a short distance till a car park came into view holding just a couple vehicles, signaling it wouldn’t be too crowded.
Readying our packs, we set forth upon the trail. In mere minutes the falls emerged through arching pillars of stone, their rumble swelling amongst the trees. Massive rocks rose in splendor on either side cloaked with ferns and growth. Ancient etchings adorned the stones, lending an air of history to match the wild surroundings.
Have to say Rocky Valley stirred my spirit in a way I’d not expected given its proximity to the coast. An untouched natural refuge amid bustle and tourism. Its beauty left me knowing I must return with more time to explore its many wanderings. A remarkable gem seemingly off the beaten path, yet harboring such magic within.
4. Lansallos Waterfall
During a weekend visit with friends in Polperro, on one fine day, we decided to explore the countryside by the sea. They spoke of a waterfall near Lansallos rumored worth the hike.
Parking in the village, we followed signs pointing toward the church through gorgeous pastures awash with wildflowers. In the distance, a rushing sound swelled upon the breeze.
Emerging from woodland, there it lay – a beautiful little cascade tumbling straight into the ocean over rocky terrain. Quite the sight to witness where water meets water so. But a few others also came to drink in the magic.
Finding a sunny perch above the beach, we settled awhile to observe the falls pouring endlessly as sea spray danced upon our skin. Such peace it was listening wrapped in nature’s rhythms. I could have stayed lost in its serenity well past afternoon. A special place indeed to leave the spirit feeling replenished.
Final Thoughts
It’s clear to me that Cornwall has a lot more great natural places to discover if you’re willing to venture out and explore. Each spot I’ve visited so far has piqued my curiosity even more to continue sharing new locations around the area.
Who knows what other beautiful landscapes or fun activities might be out there waiting to be found? There seems to be no shortage of opportunities to get outdoors and experience everything this region has to offer.
Full of magnificent hidden walks, Truro is still one of my favourite places to visit, clear my head and rest my mind.
