Things to do
There are many things to do within a short drive from Port Gaverne. Here is just a small sample to be found within easy reach.
The Minack Theatre
The theatre was the inspiration and life’s work of one remarkable woman, Rowena Cade who was responsible for a local village play in 1929 that led to the seventeen week summer season now staged in the Minack’s 750 seat fully equipped open air auditorium perched on the cliffs at Porthcurno To experience the magic of this special place, you must go and see for yourself. The sub-tropical rockeries have become a must for gardeners with a taste for the exotic. The salt tolerant succulents thrive despite the wind, providing an added dash of colour during all but the darkest winter months.
For more information and for online bookings go to: www.minack.com
The Flambards Experience
Situated near Helston the Flambards Experience is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the South West of England. With unique undercover exhibitions boasting the Flambards Victorian Village, Britain in The Blitz and Memory Lane exhibitions.
There is a fabulous undercover soft play area for young children. The Cool Zone, which is now open separately during the winter season. Flambards offers a great value day out for the whole family, whatever the weather. There is a fantastic variety of rides for all ages and entertainment for all the family during the Main Season.
For more information go to: www.flambards.co.uk
Water activities at Rock
Wind Surfing
This scenic launch site situated opposite Padstow halfway up the tidal Camel Estuary is a spot ideal for all levels of windsurfing abilities from beginners to experts.
Dinghy Sailing & Sailing
For beginners or people wishing to brush up on their sailing, tuition is given by the Camel School of Sailing in a selection of dinghies.
Water skiing
Water skiing takes place in the estuary within a clearly defined area. The Camel Ski School based at Rock gives instruction for the novice and skiing facilities for the expert from the pontoon and they also provide a tender service to the moorings.
Local walks
Port Isaac to Port Quin
From the harbour of Port Isaac, follow the Coast Path to Port Quin. Look back to the village. It’s one of the loveliest views on the coast.
Port Gaverne to Tregardock Beach
North towards Trebarwith Strand and Tintagel.
Old Polzeath to Port Quin via Lundy Hole taking in ‘The Rumps’
The Rumps were formerly an Iron Age Cliff Castle with excellent defensive capability due to the constricted access leading out to the twin headlands. You will also have fine views of the islands standing guard over the mouth of the Camel estuary. Try website I walk Cornwall for more delightful walks.
The Camel Trail
This trail runs alongside the beautiful Camel estuary along the disused railway line. It is mainly traffic free and safe for the whole family to enjoy a memorable day out, with a lot to see along the way, such as the Camel Valley Vineyard, accessible from the cycle route. From Wadebridge, you can walk or cycle the six miles to Padstow, or the eight miles up to Bodmin. Bikes can be hired at Wadebridge, Padstow, and Bodmin and can be returned at either end of the trail.
St. Nectan’s Glen
Between Tintagel and Boscastle, take a short walk inland from the Coastal Path to St. Nectan’s Glen and its waterfall. Walk down to the sea down Rocky Valley with its intriguing Iron Age carvings.
Boscastle
A few miles north of Tintagel, is Boscastle – famous in the aftermath of its recent terrible flooding. Boscastle is the only natural harbour along this stretch of North Cornwall Coast.
There are wonderful walks in either direction along the Coast Path.
For more details go to: iwalknorthcornwall.co.uk
Surfing
Polzeath (mainly west facing) and Daymer Bay are beaches that pick up most swells, both are popular beaches for all abilities of surfer.
Polzeath
Polzeath beach is a large expanse of beautiful sand which is bordered by rock-pools. It is acclaimed to be one of the best surfing beaches in the country.
Daymer Bay
Situated just around the corner from Rock towards Polzeath, Daymer Bay is arguably one of the best windsurfing spots in the country. This venue is ideal for most short boarding levels of ability offering both flat slalom conditions at low water to great waves.
Fishing trips
Local fishermen offer trips for sea fishing and sightseeing from Port Isaac, Padstow and Rock with mackerel and pollack being the main catch.
From Port Isaac Harbour enquiries phone Daytime: 07855 429 422 (Port Isaac Beach Attendant)
Golf
There are 5 excellent courses nearby ideal for beginners and the more accomplished golfers.
St. Enodoc at Rock – Church & Holywell Courses www.st-enodoc.co.uk
Bowood Park at Camelford – Championship quality course in 230 acres www.bowood-park.co.uk
The Point at Polzeath – the 18 hole course near the Camel estuary The Point at Plozeath
St. Kew off the A39 – a 9 hole pay and play course, ideal for a quick holiday round.
Trevose near St Merryn – Incorporating a country club and three classic links courses overlooking Constantine Bay www.trevose-gc.co.uk
