Porthleven to Mullion via Porthleven Sands, Loe Bar and Poldhu Cove

Starting near the picturesque village of Porthleven in Cornwall, England, this 12 km (approximately 7.5 miles) trail offers a blend of coastal beauty, historical intrigue, and moderate physical challenge. The trailhead is easily accessible by car, with parking available in Porthleven. For those using public transport, buses run regularly from nearby towns such as Helston, which is well-connected to larger cities like Truro and Penzance.### Porthleven to Loe Bar The journey begins in Porthleven, a charming fishing village known for its historic harbor and vibrant culinary scene. As you set off, you'll follow the South West Coast Path, which hugs the rugged coastline. The initial stretch to Loe Bar is about 3 km (1.9 miles) and relatively flat, making it a good warm-up. Along the way, you'll pass Porthleven Sands, a long stretch of sandy beach that is perfect for a quick rest or photo opportunity. Be cautious here, as the waters can be rough and are not suitable for swimming.### Loe Bar to Poldhu Cove Continuing on, you'll reach Loe Bar, a natural shingle bank separating the freshwater Loe Pool from the sea. This area is steeped in history, with tales of shipwrecks and smuggling adding a layer of intrigue. The trail then ascends gradually, gaining about 100 meters (328 feet) in elevation over the next 4 km (2.5 miles) as you head towards Poldhu Cove. This section offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a great spot for birdwatching, with species such as kestrels and peregrine falcons often spotted.### Poldhu Cove to Mullion Poldhu Cove is a beautiful sandy beach, perfect for a short break. It's also historically significant as the site of Marconi's first transatlantic wireless signal in 1901. From here, the trail becomes more undulating, with a mix of ascents and descents totaling around 200 meters (656 feet) in elevation gain over the final 5 km (3.1 miles) to Mullion. The path meanders through lush coastal vegetation and offers panoramic views of the Lizard Peninsula.### Navigation and Safety Given the trail's moderate difficulty, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to stay on track. The path is well-marked, but weather conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared with appropriate clothing and gear. ### Flora and Fauna The trail is rich in biodiversity. In spring and summer, the coastal cliffs are adorned with wildflowers such as sea thrift and heather. Keep an eye out for seals basking on the rocks and, if you're lucky, you might even spot dolphins playing in the surf.### Reaching Mullion The trail concludes in the village of Mullion, known for its quaint cottages and friendly local pubs. From here, you can catch a bus back to Porthleven or continue exploring the Lizard Peninsula. Mullion Cove, with its historic harbor and dramatic cliffs, is just a short walk away and well worth a visit.