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Lizard to Coverack*

Hiking route · United Kingdom
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  • Coverack
    Coverack
    Photo: Macs Adventure

A varied section including beach walks, some ascents, and views back to Lizard Head Lighthouse.  You'll also pass the ruins of a serpentine rock factory enroute to Coverack. 

moderate
Distance 17.9 km
5:45 h
279 m
338 m
74 m
3 m

The Lizard is sometimes referred to as “Cornwall’s Big Toe” dipping into the ocean. Its an impressive area where sub-tropical conditions allow rare species of plants to grow. The first few miles walk to Cadgwith Cove is a very popular section with its fantastic views back to the lighthouse.

Reach Kannack Sands which is a great area to dip your feet with rock pools where you can see sea cucumbers and starfish. Head up along the cliff top of Black Head Point and then take the path along to the little harbour village of Coverage.

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Author
Macs Adventure
Update: March 30, 2023
Difficulty
moderate
Technique
Stamina
Experience
Landscape
Highest point
74 m
Lowest point
3 m
Best time of year
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Track types

Forested/wild trail 1.27%Path 69.02%Road 1.44%Unknown 28.24%
Forested/wild trail
0.2 km
Path
12.4 km
Road
0.3 km
Unknown
5.1 km
Show elevation profile

Safety information

The cliff line is largely unfenced across the entire SWCP trail. Be sure to keep away from the edge, stay out of fenced-off areas, and take extra caution when there is a steep slope beside the path. Be vigilant also of walkers, walking in the opposite direction.

Please take care while walking along the coastal path as some sections can be narrow and may have exposed cliff-edge walking. If any erosion has taken place a diversion will have been put in place so please follow these diversion details and signs where necessary. 

There may be sections of roads with no pavement. Walk on the right-hand side facing the oncoming traffic.

There may be sections where you will be walking through fields containing livestock.  Be vigilant and respectful of all animals.

The paths can be rocky in places; take care as these may be slippery, especially when wet.

For any river crossing - there are always normally stepping stones or an obvious way to cross - be careful when crossing as it can be very slippery.

Start

Lizard (74 m)
Coordinates:
OS Grid
SW 70370 12516
DD
49.968552, -5.203553
DMS
49°58'06.8"N 5°12'12.8"W
UTM
30U 341981 5537461
w3w 
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Destination

Coverack

Turn-by-turn directions

*** The South West Coast Path is generally well-waymarked but we strongly suggest that you follow the GPS tracks (using the blue dot) in the Macs Adventure smartphone app. Using this alongside your included guidebook will ensure you have a safe, enjoyable and problem-free day.  The daily maps can also be printed from the web version of the app should you wish to take paper copies with you. ***

Coordinates

OS Grid
SW 70370 12516
DD
49.968552, -5.203553
DMS
49°58'06.8"N 5°12'12.8"W
UTM
30U 341981 5537461
w3w 
///divider.oxidation.ages
Arrival by train, car, foot or bike

Equipment

Sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing items, and a waterproof/wind-break layer may all be required. The weather in the south is usually better than the rest of the UK and temperatures can sore, especially in the summer months. Make sure to check the weather before you go to see if you need suncream or a waterproof layer, as the weather can change quickly.

Ensure your phone is fully charged; if you doubt the battery will last throughout the hike, it could be beneficial to bring a power bank.

Take plenty of water for the day's walk - especially if a high temperature in the summer. 


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Difficulty
moderate
Distance
17.9 km
Duration
5:45 h
Ascent
279 m
Descent
338 m
Highest point
74 m
Lowest point
3 m
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