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The fishing village of Mevagissey and the still smaller haven of Gorran are the very essence of a Cornwall which has remained true to its roots and embraced change only slowly. Both names belong to 6th century Irish missionaries. Mevagissey's labyrinth of tiny streets twist and turn past ancient dwarf buildings of cob and slate but inexorably for the twin harbours which are its nerve centre, a place to watch the fisherman land their catch and mend their nets as they have since John Trewollas built the first pier in 1430. By the 19th century, the most important catch was pilchard, some 40 million a year of which were salted in special cellars you can still see and packed into barrels for export to France and Italy. Earlier still, some of the crew doubled as smugglers or privateers, but today their secondary role is to introduce visitors to inshore fishing for mackerel or deep-sea shark-hunts. The full range of fish in local waters can be seen at the Aquarium, converted from the old lifeboat house.
Mevagissey is a working harbour, Gorran Haven a small picturesque anchorage, dozing on its sandy beach in the lee of the spectacular 400 foot high Dodman Point. Good swimming and snorkelling are its assets with, for sailors, a protective hard. Visit the distinctive landmark of its 15th century church with 110 foot tower or simply enjoy the quiet and privacy. |
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GORRAN HAVEN Gorran Haven a small picturesque anchorage, dozing on its sandy beach in the lee of the spectacular 400 foot high Dodman Point (once an Iron Age fort). Good swimming and snorkelling are its assets with, for sailors, a protective hard. The village revolves around a cluster of fishermen's cottages, nestling around a secluded cove which remains much the same as in years gone by. The village's 15th century church with its 110 foot tower is a very distinctive landmark that is well worth a visit. The two village beaches are ideal for family days out with fine golden sands that are amongst the safest in the County. The main beach is accessible to all, and all facilities are close by including beach shop and a large car park. Gorran Haven harbour is sheltered by a stone quay to the west. Regular fishing trips depart from the quay during the season. Visitors moorings are available for the boating enthusiasts. Dodman Point, one of the highest land marks along the coast, lies just to the southwest of Gorran Haven. The peninsula was once a large iron-age promontory fort. From Dodman Point, there are spectacular views of both St Austell and Veryan Bays. The Dodman can be reached via the cliff path or from Lamledra and Penare car parks. VAULT BEACH Vault Beach situated to the east of the Dodman Point offers a mile of silver sand enabling the visitor to enjoy this remarkable unspoilt beach. The beach is a 15 minute walk along the coastal path - clearly signposted from the village.
The coastal footpath from Portmellon to Caerhays is usually done in three stages Portmellon to Gorran Haven, Gorran Haven to Dodman and Dodman to Caerhays.
Caerhays Castle, Beach and Gardens. Located to the west of Gorran Haven; Caerhays beach is sheltered with golden sands, beach cafe and ample car parking (charge applies). The gardens are open, in the spring, to the public and boast a breath taking collection of tropical plants in an idyllic setting. The coast between Gorran Haven and Port Holland has an excellent variety of beaches including, Hemmick Beach, reached via winding, impossibly narrow lanes, the beach is a treasure trove of rock pools and sheltered coves; ideal for those who prefer seclusion. The Lost Gardens of Heligan, "The Gardens that time forgot" The Lost Gardens of Heligan is the largest garden restoration in Europe, and has now become one of the fastest growing visitor attractions in the West. |
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Mevagissey
is renowned for the soaring switchback walks that whet the appetite
for its seafood or help to walk it off. From Polkirt Hill you can
look out over the Medieval street plan, the fishing boats in the
harbour and the yachts in the pool, to the golden sweep of Polstreath
Beach and St Austell Bay or south to the inlet that shelters Portmellon
Beach and to the scenic coast path over Chapel Point to Gorran Haven.
Less than three miles separate the two, but the contrast is sharp.
The
path between Gorran Haven and Vault Beach is not suitable for push
chairs etc, and sturdy footwear is recommended; one section is quite
steep, where it winds its way through the rocky outcrops of the
headland. There are no facilities at he beach, so be sure to take
provisions.
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