Exploring from Porthcothan Bay: Your Transportation Guide
When staying at our Porthcothan Bay, you have several options for exploring Cornwall's magnificent coastline and countryside. Each mode of transportation offers different advantages, allowing you to tailor your adventures to suit your preferences and the day's plans.
By Car: Ultimate Flexibility
The car remains the most practical option for exploring Cornwall from our somewhat remote coastal location. Having your own vehicle provides unmatched freedom to discover both nearby treasures and more distant attractions at your own pace.
What You Can Explore:
The Seven Bays: Easily hop between Porthcothan, Treyarnon, Constantine, Booby's, Mother Ivey's, Harlyn and Trevone bays, each with their own distinct character
South Coast Gems: Take a day trip to the picturesque harbors of Fowey, Charlestown, or Mevagissey
Iconic Attractions: The Eden Project, Lost Gardens of Heligan, and Tintagel Castle are all accessible for day trips
North Coast Adventures: Explore further up the coast to Boscastle with its natural harbor, historic Tintagel with its Arthurian connections, and the surf beach of Polzeath
Early Morning/Late Evening: Beat the crowds with sunrise beach visits or enjoy spectacular sunsets on your own timetable
Having a car is practical for anyone staying in Cornwall and enables you to stock up at larger supermarkets in Wadebridge or Newquay, though our local shops offer most essentials.
Discover Porthcothan By Bicycle: Freedom and Adventure
Cycling opens up a world of possibilities that even drivers sometimes miss, connecting you more intimately with Cornwall's spectacular landscapes while avoiding parking headaches.
What You Can Explore:
Local Explorations: The seven bays are all accessible by bike, with Porthcothan providing a central base
Padstow and the Camel Trail: Reach Padstow (approximately 7 miles) then join the traffic-free Camel Trail along the estuary
Food Adventures: Cycle to dinner in St Merryn or lunch in Padstow, enjoying Cornwall's food scene without parking concerns
Convenience: Nip to Porthcothan Stores, Constantine Bay Stores, or for breakfast at Harlyn without moving your car from its space
Train and Challenge: Cornwall is really popular with cycling enthusiasts and many will cycle miles and miles before the 11am Cornish “rush hour” - find out more about these routes here
Remember that Cornwall's terrain is notably hilly—50 miles can feel like 100 elsewhere! But the views from those hard-earned summits are worth every push of the pedal.
For hassle-free cycling, our partners at Cornwall Bike Hire deliver bikes directly to our holiday homes. Their fleet includes comfortable tourers, road bikes, and electric bikes that make Cornwall's challenging hills considerably more manageable. They'll also collect the bikes at the end of your stay, meaning you can cycle without having to transport bikes on your car.
By Bus: Scenic and Stress-Free
The coastal bus route 56 runs directly through Porthcothan, connecting Newquay to Padstow with stops at most major beaches and villages along the way. While operating on relaxed "Cornish time," this service offers a wonderful way to explore without driving concerns.
What You Can Explore:
Padstow: Reach this picturesque harbor town in approximately 20 minutes, browsing shops, enjoying restaurants, and taking boat trips without parking hassles
Newquay: Head south to Cornwall's surfing capital, enjoying beaches, attractions, and nightlife
One-Way Adventures: Take the bus out and walk the coast path back to Porthcothan, creating perfect linear walking routes
Check the latest timetables on the Transport for Cornwall website before planning your day. During peak summer season, services run approximately hourly, though times can vary.
The top deck of these buses offers spectacular coastal views that drivers miss—sometimes the journey itself becomes a highlight of the day!
On Foot: The Coastal Path Experience
Walking directly from your accommodation offers perhaps the most rewarding way to experience Cornwall's natural beauty. The South West Coast Path passes right by Porthcothan, providing access to miles of spectacular walking in both directions.
What You Can Explore:
The Seven Bays: Walk north or south along the coast path to discover neighboring beaches, each with their own character
Bedruthan Steps: Head south to view these dramatic sea stacks, among Cornwall's most photographed landscapes
Trevose Head: Walk north past Constantine and around the headland for lighthouse views and panoramic vistas
Padstow Challenge: For experienced walkers, the full route to Padstow (approximately 7 miles) offers a satisfying day hike with the option to return by bus
Walking allows you to discover hidden coves, dramatic cliff formations, and abundant wildlife that other travelers might miss. The coastal path is well-maintained but can be steep in places—proper footwear is essential, and walking poles can be helpful on longer routes.
Mixing Transportation Methods
Some of the best adventures combine different modes of transport. Consider:
Taking the bus to Padstow, renting bikes there for the Camel Trail, then bussing back
Driving to a distant beach, then walking a section of coast path as a loop
Cycling to dinner and taking a taxi home if you'd like to enjoy Cornwall's local beverages
Our location in Porthcothan provides the perfect base for flexible exploration—whether you're seeking convenience, adventure, or a combination of both, you'll find a transportation option that enhances your Cornish holiday experience.
