Places to Stay along the South West Coast Path Newquay to Penzance

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Discover a Dramatic Coastal Route with Well-Placed Accommodation Stops

The South West Coast Path from Penzance to Dartmouth covers one of the most dramatic and varied stretches of the entire trail, following the rugged coastline of Cornwall before crossing into South Devon. Starting in the historic town of Penzance, the route quickly immerses walkers in wild coastal scenery, with granite cliffs, secluded coves, and sweeping ocean views that define this part of the Cornish coast.

As the path winds north and east, it passes through iconic locations such as Land’s End, St Ives, and the dramatic north Cornish coastline, where the terrain becomes more exposed and undulating. Expect frequent ascents and descents, narrow cliff-top paths, and ever-changing sea views. Moving into Devon, the landscape softens slightly, with greener hills and estuary crossings adding variety to the journey, while still maintaining the coastal character that makes this route so distinctive.

The section finishes in the attractive harbour town of Dartmouth, offering a rewarding endpoint with a good range of places to stay and opportunities to relax after completing this demanding but memorable stretch of the South West Coast Path.

Route length
193.8 miles
Accommodation options:
317 hotels, inns and B&Bs
Total elevation gain:
11102 m
Total elevation loss:
11103 m
Lowest point:
0.1 m
Highest point:
151.6 m
Elevation gain and loss represent the total cumulative ascent and descent across the full route.

Route map and nearby hotels

Route line Other linked hotels Current hotel Hihest point

Elevation profile

The chart shows the route from start to finish. If a hotel has been selected, its nearest position on the route is shown as a highlighted marker.

Accessibility

This route is suitable for Walkers

About the Terrain

Difficulty: 🟠 Moderate

This section of the South West Coast Path from Penzance to Dartmouth is graded as moderate to challenging, covering a long and varied stretch of coastline across Cornwall and into South Devon. The path is generally well waymarked but includes frequent ascents and descents, often with steep sections, uneven rocky ground, and narrow cliff-top paths.

There are no technical climbing sections, but the sustained elevation changes and exposed coastal terrain can make this route physically demanding, particularly over multiple days. Conditions can vary, with strong winds and wet ground adding to the challenge in places. The route is not suitable for pushchairs, wheelchairs, or cyclists, and is best suited to walkers with a good level of fitness and some experience of longer coastal walks.

A wide range of hotels, inns, and B&Bs can be found in coastal towns and villages along the route, allowing walkers to plan the journey in stages with convenient and comfortable overnight stops.

The route shown is intended to give a general sense of how nearby accommodation is positioned in relation to the walk, helping you gauge proximity rather than providing a detailed navigation guide. While the map outlines the route, it should be viewed as an overview only and may not reflect every turn, feature, or on-the-ground condition you may encounter.

For the walk itself, it is advisable to use a reliable map and/or an electronic navigation aid to assist with route finding, particularly in areas where paths may be less distinct or conditions change. Taking time to plan ahead, check local information, and prepare for varying terrain and weather will help ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience.

Selected hotel

Select a hotel from the list to highlight its location on the route and see where it sits on the elevation profile.

Hotels along this walking trail