Walks from Fowey, Cornwall
Fowey is one of Cornwall’s most beautiful and rewarding walking bases — a historic harbour town on the south Cornish coast where the River Fowey meets the sea, surrounded by dramatic coastal scenery and sheltered wooded valleys. The town inspired Daphne du Maurier, who lived nearby at Menabilly, and the landscapes she wrote about are all within easy walking distance.
Walking from Fowey takes you along dramatic sections of the South West Coast Path — past the iconic Gribbin Head daymark tower, hidden coves and the secluded beach at Polridmouth — as well as into the sheltered Fowey River valley towards Lostwithiel through ancient woodland and farmland. The Saints’ Way, a 26-mile pilgrim route crossing Cornwall from Padstow to Fowey, also starts here.
All three routes below start from Fowey town centre and are completely free to access. Use the walk cards to find the right route for your visit.
3 Walks from Fowey
A spectacular circular walk from Fowey harbour past the iconic Gribbin Head daymark tower, with sweeping views along the south Cornish coast. The route takes in the secluded beach at Polridmouth Cove — the inspiration for Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca — before returning through woodland and quiet lanes.
A gentle riverside walk following the upper Fowey estuary through wooded valley to the ancient stannary town of Lostwithiel, returning via quiet lanes past Restormel Castle. Ideal for families or those looking for a less strenuous outing with plenty of historic interest.
One of the finest stretches of the South West Coast Path, this challenging linear walk heads east from Fowey along dramatic cliffs past Polruan and Lanteglos before dropping into the enchanting fishing village of Polperro. Return by bus or taxi to complete the day.