Action-packed Portreath
While Portreath’s mining past still echoes through the area, visitors now come for its sandy beach, world class bodyboarding and the Bissoe Trail – a former tramway that winds through the heart of Cornwall’s World Heritage Mining Landscape.
The village is framed by dramatic slate cliffs, with coastal walks leading to Porthtowan or Godrevy Point. A grazing scheme with ponies on the headlands helps support local biodiversity, making Portreath not just a beach getaway, but a haven for nature lovers seeking a quieter, north coast destination.
HOME OF BODYBOARDING
Portreath has long been known in bodyboarding circles, and Dave Heard of Bodyboarding HQ is helping keep that reputation alive. Tucked just a short walk from the beach, his shop is packed with boards and gear for all levels.
“Portreath has always had a reputation [for bodyboarding]. It was where one of the first competitions was ever held. The best guys in the country – champions – hail from about three miles from this area, so we’ve always had a hotbed of talent.”
“I like to think we’re a nice friendly shop and people can come in and feel comfortable in here… whether you’re into bodyboarding or not. Any advice that [you] want to get just come in, it’s not a problem.”
“A lot of people will just sit it out and watch the [bodyboarders] doing their thing. All the different manoeuvres and stuff. It’s good fun to watch.”
VILLAGE VIEWPOINTS
Even if you’re not heading into the surf, the beach is still worth a visit. “A lot of people will just sit it out and watch the [bodyboarders] doing their thing”, says Dave. “All the different manoeuvres and stuff. It’s good fun to watch.”
Set back a little from the beach sits Pod Café, offering everything from morning coffee to sunset drinks. Madi at the café recommends the views of Gull Rock and the river from the decking. As for the beach, from the surf life saving club to the popular quiz nights at the café, there’s always something going on.
“I love to go for the sunset dip, which I’m doing tonight,” says Madi. “I [also] love to paddleboard round Gull rock, which is amazing.”
Afterwards you can refuel with locally made clotted cream ice cream, scrumptious waffles or lunch from the café’s varied menu. The team have recently taken on The Basset Arms in the village too, bringing with them their vibrant menu and events schedule. Find out what they’re up to on Instagram or Facebook.
BIKE TO BEACH
Portreath’s mining legacy is best explored on two wheels along the Bissoe Trail, which follows the path of the historic Portreath Tramroad. Once used to transport copper ore from the mines to the harbour, it’s now a popular cycling and walking route stretching from Portreath to Devoran.
Part way along the trail, you’ll find Saint Piran Café and Bike Hire – a perfect pit stop and a great place to hire bikes. Cycle south from Bissoe to Devoran or follow the trail northwards, into Portreath,
“We offer breakfast, lunch and bike hire”, says Hayleigh, who works there. “We have a children’s small play area with water play and sand and we are very well known for our coffee.” The café and trail are also very dog friendly, perfect for visiting with the whole family.
How does a quiet but action-packed north coast escape sound? Could Portreath be your beach?…
Your Beach. Found
From the feel of the sand underfoot to the anticipation as you near the sea, your beach is the one that stays with you. Find your beach with the Beach Match Quiz.
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