St Loy's Cove

St Loy's Cove is a secluded inlet in Cornwall with a forested valley descending to a beach scattered with large rounded granite boulders. These stone formations create a natural boundary between the sea and the surrounding landscape, defining the character of the place.

The coastline bears marks of past climate shifts, with orange-brown cliffs formed through soil movement over time. The geological features show a period when regional climate conditions resembled modern-day Greenland.

The cove lies along a major walking route that has connected this coastline for generations, showing how locals and visitors have traditionally explored this stretch of shore.

The beach is reached by walking through the valley, with parking available along the road at the entrance or paid options at a nearby farm. The descent is steady and wooded, so wear appropriate footwear for the forested path with uneven ground.

The cove sits in a warmer microclimate compared to most other British coastal areas, allowing unusual plants like tree ferns, palms, and camellias to thrive. This southwestern location creates conditions that favor subtropical plant species rarely seen elsewhere in the UK.

GPS coordinates: 50.05200,-5.60000

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:00