Priest Cove, Rocky cove near St Just, England
Priest Cove is a rocky cove near St Just featuring a granite coastline with a man-made saltwater swimming pool carved into the rocks beside Cape Cornwall Headland. This natural basin provides a sheltered bathing spot within the dramatic coastal landscape.
In the 1830s, the cove was used for attempts to establish a pilchard fishery with cellars carved into the rocks. The exposed coastal location ultimately prevented the venture from succeeding commercially.
The cove hosts an annual swimming event to the Brisons, two small islands offshore, which draws together local residents and visitors. This gathering reflects the community's deep connection to the sea and has become part of local tradition.
The National Trust car park situated behind the beach provides access to the cove with a cafe, toilets, and shop. These facilities make a visit straightforward and comfortable for families and all visitors.
The granite formations exposed in the rocks contain minerals such as quartz, feldspar, and tourmaline that visitors can observe in the cliff walls. This geological feature makes the site interesting for those curious about the Earth's natural structures.
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