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Follow ‘The Salt Path’ with Newquay and it’s local beauty spots

The much-anticipated film adaptation of Raynor Winn’s ‘The Salt Path’ is set to hit screens later this month – and we thought it was the perfect time to share some of the beautiful local spots mentioned throughout the book!

Whether you want to follow in Winn’s footsteps with your own coast path hiking trip this summer, or you’re feeling inspired to visit some new places, here’s where you might spot in the upcoming film.

The best part? Some of them, you can visit straight from our doorstep!

1. Bedruthan Steps

The incredible rock formations and stacks at Bedruthan Steps are iconic – offering glorious viewing opportunities from the towering cliffs. Think golden sands and crashing waves amid a dramatic north coast landscape. While you can no longer climb down the beach, the views are well worth the pit-stop.

2. Watergate Bay

One of Cornwall’s most popular surfing spots, Watergate Bay boasts two miles of sand and crashing waves, nestled amongst the cliffs just north of Newquay. With restaurants, a hotel, and gift shops, it’s got a little something for everyone.

3. Porth

This seaside hamlet offers a quieter experience than some of the more popular Newquay beaches, found just outside of town and away from the crowds. Walkable from Watergate Bay, this cove is often more sheltered for the wind – perfect for family beach days.

4. Newquay Town

If you’ve read the book, Winn writes of Newquay as a down-and-outs surf town in chapter 13. Seven years after publishing, though, Newquay is a vibrant hub; more reflective of the town Winn laments it once was, with trendy cafes, popular foodie restaurants, and independent boutiques showcasing some of our best local makers. We’d love to hear her thoughts on another visit!

5. Fistral Beach

As if Winn could walk the coast path without a mention of Fistral Beach – one of Newquay’s flagship beach spots! While her mention is fleeting, Fistral is arguably one of the north coast’s beach sunset spots. Just steps from Lewinnick Lodge, it’s a haven of wildlife and activity and, whether you enjoy walking the beach, rockpooling, or throwing yourself into the surf, it’s ideal for any beach lover.

6. Gannel Estuary

On leaving Newquay, ‘The Salt Path’ takes you around the Gannel Estuary – a haven for both birds and paddleboarders alike (just across the Pentire headland from Lewinnick Lodge). From the Lodge, follow the coast path down to the ferry that can take you across the water at high tide to the stunning Crantock Beach through the summer months.

7. Perranporth

As the story heads west from Newquay, the coast path takes you to the popular seaside town of Perranporth. Boasting miles of sand dunes and empty sky, it’s quite a walk into town – so, don’t forget your suncream!

Go your own way

If you’re following in the footsteps of ‘The Salt Path’, you’ll no doubt cross all these spots off your list as you wander this wild and rugged landscape. That said, you don’t need to do the whole thing to make the most of these magical places!

Many of these spots can be accessed through circular walks, or even just as pitstops of your way through another adventure or day out.

So, if you’re looking for some inspiration on how to include them as part of your weekend escape to Cornwall, check out local walking apps (stuffed with itineraries) like iWalk Cornwall (GPS guided with difficulty levels), or why not plan your route ahead of time with the South West Coast Path’s recommendations? There are accessible routes for everyone, no matter your skill level.

Start your walking adventure at Lewinnick Lodge

Every adventure starts somewhere – so, start yours at Lewinnick Lodge! With our ocean-facing rooms and cliff-side restaurant, it’s the perfect way to get close to the ocean (sans tent).

While you’re with us, enjoy a menu inspired by the land and sea around us, curated using only the best local and seasonal ingredients. Then, switch off in one of our luxury hotel rooms and wake up recharged by the sound of the ocean, ready for your walking adventure.

If you need tips and advice on how to make the most of the local coastline around us, our team is here to help. To find out more, get in touch.