Lansallos Beach

Lansallos beach is a hidden gem in Cornwall and one of our favourite beaches in the area, approaching this hidden cove via a beautiful woodland path from Lansallos village. As you walk down the path towards the beach, a lovely little steam runs beside you, ending in a small waterfall, and depending on the time of year you will be greeted by bluebells, carpets of wild garlic or thousands of blackberries to enjoy.

The secluded cove boasts golden sands, clear blue waters, with a wild and peaceful feel. If you time it right, you may even find you have the whole beach to yourself!

Surrounded by lush green cliffs to clamber on, when the tide is low there are rock pools and some little caves in the cliff sides to explore.

Lansallos village itself is a serene and picturesque village with a historic church, traditional cottages, and unspoiled countryside. Nestled amidst rolling hills and close to the coast, the 15th-century church of St. Ildierna stands as a historic centrepiece, while nearby footpaths lead to scenic coastal walks and secluded coves along the South West Coast Path.

The network of footpaths links farmland and wooded valleys, putting you right into a landscape rich in wildlife, conservation and farming. As part of a Site of Special Scientific Interest there is an abundance of wildlife waiting to be discovered, from the wildflowers on the coastal slopes, to the many birds on the cliffs.

Lansallos beach is managed by the National Trust. Find out more of the ’20 best National Trust Sites’ in South East Cornwall and the rest of this beautiful county.

Walks around Lansallos Beach

There are some lovely walks in the area following the South West Coastal Path. Here are a couple of our favourites:

Palace Cove and Lansallos Cove

A lovely fairly easy 2.4 mile circular walk to the small coves of Lantivet Bay used in Victorian times for pilchard fishing, collecting seaweed as fertiliser and smuggling barrels of French brandy.

Lantivet Bay and Lansallos Cove

A stunning 5 mile circular walk above the white sand crescent of Lantic Bay and the small coves of Lantivet Bay where a battle was once fought between smugglers and Customs men, and following an ancient cart track along the stream through the woods to the medieval church of Lansallos.

Polperro to Lansallos Beach

A fairly strenuous 7 mile circular walk along the rugged coast path from Polperro where a bell buoy rings out across the waves from the treacherous reef known as Udder Rock.

More details of the walking routes available in the area can be found here.

How hard is the walk from Lansallos to Polperro?

This walk is a moderately challenging route, taking on average 3-4 hours to complete.

Are Lansallos beaches dog friendly?

Dogs are welcome at Lansallos all year round and there are some lovely walks on the coast path. Please help to keep Lansallos safe for nature by keeping your dog on a short lead.

Where do you park for Lansallos?

The National Trust car park on the left as you come into Lansallos village, and the walk to the beach is around 20 minutes. The car park is pay and display or free for members.

Can you swim at Lansallos Beach?

Lansallos Beach is an ideal spot for swimming during calm days, however please do not enter the water if the seas are choppy, always swim in pairs or groups and be aware of rip tides and strong currents.

Address: Lansallos, Looe, Cornwall, PL13 2PX

Parking: There is a pay and display National Trust car park in Lansallos village which is free for National Trust members. It is then around a 20 minute walk down to the beach from here.

Facilities: There are no facilities at Lansallos so be sure to arrive prepared. The village of Polperro is less than a 10 minute drive away.