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Categories: Couples holidays, Family Holiday in Cornwall, Out and About in Cornwall
May and June are perfect for getting out and about in Cornwall and exploring the county. These are the ‘golden months’ before the busy summer holidays. Temperatures average around 14-16 degrees and the sun shines for about 12 hours a day. You will find the beaches are empty, no queues and its easy to get a table in your favourite restaurant. It’s a great time to experience something new!
1. Visit Cornwall’s Great Gardens
The gardens of Cornwall are often the first in the UK to get the spring blooms due to the temperate climate. Trebah and Trelissick come alive with glorious rhododendrons which are a beautiful sight. May is the time to visit bluebell woods at Enys Gardens for their Bluebell Festival.
2. Follow the artist trail
Visit all the incredible artists of Cornwall in their studios in Open Studios week (25th May – 2nd June 2019). Visit glass makers, ceramicists, textile artists and painters all over the county. Most of the studios are in the South West Cornwall and just a short drive from Porthleven.
3. Take a scenic drive
Head for the small village of Zennor, near St Ives, and take the coast road towards Sennen. This glorious stretch of winding road will take you into another world of wild seas, soaring cliffs and moorland with villages popping up here and there. Take your time and stop at a few lookout points to absorb the atmosphere. The coastline road will lead you to Sennen where you can view the famous Longships lighthouse.
4. Step back in time at Cornwall’s historical attractions
May and June are an enchanting time to explore Cornwall’s iconic historical sites. Enter Poldark’s world and visit World Heritage Mining sites, Lanyon Quoit and the castles of St Michael’s Mount, Pendennis and St Mawes all make a wonderful day out.
5. Immerse yourself in Festival Fun
Helston Flora Day (8th May) celebrates the coming of Spring and you will find the town of Helston adorned with flowers and full of festivities. You can witness the elegant mid-day Flurry dance with the ladies and gents in top hats and tales dancing through the town. St Ives Food & Drink Festival (10-12th May) is a popular festival on the beach in St Ives. Enjoy well known chefs theatre and free entertainment all day.
Golowan Festival (16th-25th June) is a traditional celebration of mid-summer. The festival of entertainment across Penzance culminates in the spectacular Mazey Day parade through the street.
6. Get Active
Walking the Cornish part of the South West Coast seems an obvious thing to do and there is walking for all abilities. If you are staying in Porthleven the coast path is on both sides. We suggest taking a scenic stroll to Loe Bar.
Surfing or Stand Up Paddle Boarding are also a good option as the sea temperature is a lot more bearable in May and June (with a wetsuit of course!). Try Vertical Blue in Porthleven for SUP and kayaking. Dan Joel’s Surf School in Poldhu is great for beginner surfing and includes all the kit you need.
7. Enjoy quieter beaches
In the lull between Easter and high season, the beaches are quieter and while it might not be bikini weather, it is certainly warm enough to enjoy a picnic and watching the early summer sunset over the sea. Our favourite spot is on Bluebouys steps, Porthleven beach.
