St Ives to Gurnards Head Walk

8.5 miles (13.7 km)

This walk follows a section of the South West Coast Path from St Ives to Gurnards Head in Cornwall.
The route runs for about 8.5 miles, following an undulating cliff top path. Starting at St Ives you head west passing the iconic, sandy expanse of Porthmeor Beach, and Tate St Ives....
Leaving the town's bustle behind, the trail rounds Clodgy Point and leads you across grazed cliffs toward the panoramic vistas of Hor Point and Pen Enys Point, where you can look back for a final, glimmering view of St Ives. As you continue past the dramatic Carn Naun Point, you will spot The Carracks (also known as Seal Island) just offshore, a frequent haunt for Grey Atlantic seals.
The terrain becomes increasingly rugged as you approach the high, granite cliffs of Zennor Head, where the path dips into narrow coves and climbs steep, boulder-strewn slopes. After passing the folklore-rich Pendour Cove below Zennor, the trail continues west through maritime heathland, eventually reaching the striking, prehistoric promontory of Gurnard's Head.
This final stretch offers sweeping views of the Iron Age cliff castle and the distant Pendeen Lighthouse, concluding a walk defined by its remote, wild beauty and challenging coastal climbs.