Discover hidden Cornwall: Mevagissey and Pentewan full of charm

Fishermen still work the ocean from the harbor of Mevagissey where sea-faring history is fondly remembered — including pirates and fishermen as well as naval exploits.

Mevagissey is like many of the quaint fishing villages along the coast of Cornwall — colorful, picturesque and begging to be explored. This view is taken from the official Coastal Path heading down into the harbor. The path connects the town of Pentewan and Mevagissey along its route following the entire coast of Cornwall.

There are simply miles and miles of wonderful paths, some snaking through verdant valleys and others wandering along the coast or through villages. All are very well signed and the footpaths are a wonderful way to discover hidden Cornwall.

It is possible to walk the entire seaside of Cornwall on the historic Coast Path, hugging cliffs and meandering through meadows. This section runs from Pentewan to Mevagissey.

In Mevagissey, Pentewan or any other quaint Cornwall village, be sure to take time to enjoy an afternoon Cornish cream tea … a decadent delicacy of scones, topped with fresh strawberry jam and a hefty dollop of clotted cream (Warning: This is not diet food!). Tea is a given. This delightful tea was set at The Cove Inn sitting on the outside patio in Pentewan.

Pentewan is a lovely and little-visited base from which to explore the surrounding coastal and inland trails as well as the Lost Gardens of Heligan. We stayed with Jack and Vera at The Rocks B&B and highly recommend it. Nothing fancy, but you feel like its home.

Peaceful sunset across the tiny harbor in Pentewan.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan are a botanical, archeological and historical wonder tucked onto a hillside neighbored by the quaint English villages of Pentewan and Mevagissey.

Don’t miss the Jungle rope bridge in the Lost Gardens of Heligan (opened in April 2014) and thought to be the longest such bridge in Britain at 100 feet. Careful footing necessary and yes it does sway.

Whether you are a fan of hiking, history, flowers, botany, mysteries, or stories of archeology and restoration, the Lost Gardens of Heligan (www.heligan.com) are for you, kids and adults alike.

Therese Iknoian getting playful in the Lost Gardens of Heligan just outside of Mevagissey in Cornwall. You literally can get “lost” in history and delight there, another “discover hidden Cornwall gem”.