Enchanting Cornwall - A Tour of Hidden Villages & Coastal Beauty (2024)

Cornwall has long enchanted many for its sweeping coastal vistas, charming fishing villages, its famous pasty and friendly residents. In addition to these things, there is so much more to discover. From ancient buildings, Cornish cream teas and Celtic heritage to the local traditions and language – this very special tour of Cornwall will bring all these things to life.

Cornish towns might look close on a map, but they are threaded together by scenic and often narrow roads leading from one unique discovery to the next.

Over the years, I have come to love and know Cornwall, and on these journeys, I have come across so many special things to share with you on this unforgettable journey. Because of the small and often intimate type of places that this tour will cover, we are limiting this tour to just 15 participants.

Along the way, we will meet some memorable Cornish residents, that will add greatly to our journey through the very best of this part of the British Isles.

From Cornish pasties, local ales, Cornish cream tea, fish and chips to fine seafood, you’ll be delighted at the great cuisine along the way, all of which has been carefully chosen for your enjoyment.

So, get ready for a memorable week of exploration.

Andrew Lannerd Tour Director | Transcendent Travel

Day 1 - Monday

* Due to AM train departures from London, we HIGHLY recommend that guests arrive to London prior to the first day of the tour.

Today, we will begin our journey at London’s Paddington Station for a first-class train journey to Cornwall. The experience of the train will allow you to sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery while enjoying frequent refreshments in true first-class style.

When we arrive to Cornwall, we will then head to Falmouth where we will settle into our beautiful hotel overlooking the sea.

The evening will kick off with a cocktail reception and dinner in one of Falmouth’s best restaurants. The perfect way to begin our week of exploring enchanting Cornwall.

Day 2 - Tuesday

Today after a delicious seaside breakfast, we will head to the gorgeous hidden gem of Fowey, filled with cobblestone streets, unique shops, architectural delights and charm. We will begin by hearing about the history of Fowey, and then you’ll have some time to explore the village, do some shopping, sit along the picturesque waterfront or go into some of the village’s historical buildings.

After Fowey, we are off to the historical and untouched harbor at Charlestown. Fans of Poldark and other historical television dramas will recognize it as the perfect backdrop, including its tall, traditional sailing ships. After hearing how this spot was used in the filming of Poldark, we will enjoy a traditional Cornish Cream Tea – the perfect way to top off an afternoon of exploration.

In the evening, we will end the day in Falmouth with a pub dinner to remember – just steps from the seaside.

Day 3 - Wednesday

Today we will visit Marazion and the iconic St. Michael’s Mount. This charming island is home to 30 residents and features an impressive 17th century castle, and lush gardens. You’ll quickly discover why this spot has inspired writers, artists and those on a spiritual pilgrimage for many centuries.

Later in the day, we will head to the county town of Truro where we will view the magnificent cathedral, and the many treasures within its walls. Later, we will head to the new Duchy of Cornwall housing and retail developments, carefully planned under the watchful eye of King Charles III when Prince of Wales. Here, you’ll hear about his use of classical architecture to support his approach of environmental sustainability and social cohesion.

The evening will be one to remember with a seaside dinner and a LIVE sea shanty performance alongside a special tasting of some of Cornwall’s best local ales. A most memorable evening!

Day 4 - Thursday

Cornwall is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and you’ll see that straight away as we visit Porthcurno Beach, used frequently for the filming of Poldark. While many say they have the best fish and chips, our lunch stop today truly is one of the best places for fresh fish and chips.

Later, we are off to the stunning Botallack Mines, where we will hear more about the great Cornish mining past. The Botallack Mines are perched on one of the most beautiful cliffs in Cornwall and have been used frequently in filming.

The drive between the Botallack Mines and St. Ives is truly one you won’t forget for its rugged beauty and stunning vistas. St. Ives will be our home for the next two nights. This stunning seaside community is known for a vibrant arts scene and unique attractions. Our accommodations in St. Ives will be the luxurious Pedn Olva Hotel, frequently rated as one of the best boutique hotels in Britain.

Day 5 - Friday

We begin today by heading to the charming fishing port of Padstow, home to the National Lobster Hatchery, a vibrant seafront and many gourmet restaurants by renowned chef Rick Stein.

After lunch we will visit the sumptuous Prideaux Place, where Poldark was written. Since its completion in 1592, the same family have lived in this charming Elizabethan manor with lush gardens and stunning interiors.

We’ll end the day with a delicious group dinner and perhaps a toast (or two) to celebrate another great day exploring Cornwall!

Day 6 - Saturday

After a seaside breakfast, you may well want to walk on the beach or enjoy some last-minute shopping or exploration of St. Ives before our mid-day train departure to London.

The afternoon will be spent in first class as we return to London where we will enjoy a farewell dinner together and overnight accommodations at The Clermont, Victoria, just steps away from Buckingham Palace.

Day 7 - Sunday