The sea has always greatly influenced the character of Cornwall, England’s most westerly county. The north coast of Cornwall is directly exposed to the elements of the Atlantic Ocean, giving rise to world class surfing. The southerly coast however is protected and at times benefits from a Mediterranean like climate. With crystal clear blue seas which are invitingly warm.

The Cornish coast is steeped in history, some of which still remains, for example long abandoned tin mines wheelhouses. Evidence of smuggling and wrecking is harder to find but it's there for the keen observer to uncover.

Many small fishing villages remain un-spoilt by the commercialization of the 1960’s and 1970’s, for example Coverack, Porthallow or Cagdwith, all of which are located on the Lizard peninsula. These villages have their own history of pilchard fishing, smuggling, wrecking and today are ideal places to visit to see the un-spoilt history of south west Cornwall. It’s quite possible to follow the coastal path between Porthallow via Coverack to Cagdwith – providing you have arranged transport at the other end!

All are just short drive from the Helford Passage, a beautiful river estuary popular with amongst the yachting community.

Another major landmark visible on the horizon from many points around the Lizard peninsula are the satellite dishes at Goonhilly Downs satellite earth station, originally built in the early 1960’s for satellite based telephone and television transmission the site has now become a visitor attraction.

Of course south west Cornwall is still a very rural area, where fishing and farming communities are still strong. In fact many farmers have diversified to provide farmhouse B&B (bed and breakfast) accommodation.

(c) C.R. White 2007. Reproduction permitted provided text unmodified and links remain. All rights reserved Internationally.