View of Chapel Point from Colona Beach
View of Chapel Point from Colona Beach
Highlight • Viewpoint
Hiking
5.0
(75)
Running
5.0
(5)
The View of Chapel Point from Colona Beach offers a captivating coastal experience on the South Cornwall coast in the United Kingdom. This scenic viewpoint, situated at an elevation of approximately 74 metres, provides stunning vistas across a secluded sandy cove towards the prominent Chapel Point headland. It's a key highlight along the renowned South West Coast Path, blending natural beauty with intriguing architectural history.
Visitors consistently praise the tranquil atmosphere and stunning scenery found here, making it an ideal…
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Tips
October 24, 2017
Hiking
May 4, 2018
Hiking
November 1, 2023
Running
Routes here
Best routes to View of Chapel Point from Colona Beach
4.8
(5)
19
hikers
9.94km
02:47
190m
190m
4.9
(35)
154
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(18)
180
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 70 m
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Colona Beach is quite secluded, making public transport access a bit indirect. The nearest villages with bus services are Mevagissey and Gorran Haven. From either village, you would need to walk along sections of the South West Coast Path to reach Colona Beach. For example, from Mevagissey, it's a scenic but longer walk. From Gorran Haven, the walk is also along the coast path. There is no direct public transport to Colona Beach itself, so be prepared for a significant walk from the nearest bus stop.
No, there are no specific permits or fees required to access the South West Coast Path or Colona Beach. The path and beach are freely accessible to the public. However, if you park in nearby villages like Mevagissey or Gorran Haven, you will likely encounter parking charges.
The walk to Colona Beach is generally considered manageable, but it does involve sections of the South West Coast Path which can be uneven. While not overly rugged, some parts can become muddy, especially after rain. Hikers should wear sturdy, waterproof walking boots or shoes with good grip. Layers of clothing are advisable to adapt to changing coastal weather, and a waterproof jacket is always a good idea in Cornwall.
Yes, Colona Beach is considered family-friendly, particularly for those who enjoy coastal walks and nature exploration. The main activities for children include exploring the numerous rockpools at low tide, which are teeming with marine life. The beach itself is sandy and secluded, offering a safe space for play. However, access is on foot only, so consider the walking distance from parking areas when planning with very young children.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on Colona Beach and the surrounding sections of the South West Coast Path. It's a popular area for dog walkers. Please ensure your dog is kept under control, especially around livestock (cows and sheep are often seen near the beach) and other visitors, and always clean up after your pet to help keep the area pristine.
As Colona Beach is secluded, there are no immediate cafes, pubs, or accommodation options directly at the viewpoint. Your best bet for refreshments and places to stay would be in the nearby villages of Mevagissey or Gorran Haven. Both offer a selection of pubs, cafes, and guesthouses, providing a welcome stop after your coastal adventure.
Yes, Colona Beach is a popular spot for wild swimming. For the best experience, it is recommended to swim during an incoming tide within the inlet. At low tide, the beach reveals extensive rockpools, making it less ideal for swimming but excellent for exploration. Always be aware of local tide times and sea conditions before entering the water.
Chapel Point House, the distinctive cluster of three buildings on the headland, was designed by arts and crafts designer John Campbell and built in 1936. It is now a Grade II listed building. The property gained further recognition by featuring in Daphne du Maurier's 1969 novel, "The House on the Strand" (known in German as "A drop of time"). Its unique architecture and literary connection add to the area's charm.
While the intro mentions the shortest route from Portmellon, many hikers create circular routes by combining sections of the South West Coast Path. You could start from Mevagissey or Gorran Haven, walk to Colona Beach and Chapel Point, and then loop back via inland paths or return along the coast path, depending on your desired distance and difficulty. Consulting a local ordnance survey map or a hiking app can help you plan a suitable circular route.
Unfortunately, due to its secluded nature and access via the South West Coast Path, the View of Chapel Point from Colona Beach is not wheelchair accessible. The path involves uneven terrain, steps, and can be muddy, making it unsuitable for wheelchairs or those with significant mobility challenges.
The area is rich in wildlife. You might spot cows and sheep grazing near the isolated beach. In the rockpools at low tide, you can find various marine creatures. With a bit of luck, grey seals are known to frequent the rocks below Chapel Point, offering a special sighting for observant visitors.