Cycling the Coast to Coast: A Perfect Porthtowan Day Trip

If you're staying in Porthtowan and fancy a day out that doesn't involve getting sandy, the Coast to Coast cycle trail is an absolute gem.

This traffic-free route takes you right across Cornwall : from Portreath on the north coast to Devoran on the south coast : and the best bit? You're only a stone's throw from the start. It's one of those brilliant activities that feels like a proper adventure without being intimidating, making it perfect for families, couples, or anyone who wants to see a different side of Cornwall from the saddle of a bike.

🚴‍♂️ The Route at a Glance

The Sustrans Mineral Tramways Coast to Coast trail covers 11 miles of stunning Cornish countryside, following the path of an old mineral railway.

What makes it so special:

• Almost entirely traffic-free : proper peace and quiet
• Gentle gradients : a modest climb to 110 metres, then a slow descent
• Suitable for all abilities : you don't need to be Bradley Wiggins
• Rich mining heritage : rustic granite signposts and historic sites along the way
• Takes 2-6 hours depending on your pace and how many cream tea stops you make

The surface is mainly gravel and compacted earth, so it's ideal for hybrid bikes or mountain bikes. You can manage it on a road bike if you've got tougher tyres, but you'll feel every bump.

🏖️ Starting from Porthtowan

Here's where Porthtowan's location really shines : you're literally minutes from the Portreath end of the trail.

You can easily cycle from your accommodation to the start point, making this one of the most accessible day trips you could ask for. No driving to a car park, no faff : just hop on your bike and you're off.

The route begins at Portreath, where you'll find plenty of parking if guests are arriving by car, plus cafés and facilities to grab a coffee before you set off. From there, the trail heads inland through some of Cornwall's most atmospheric countryside.

🌳 What to Expect Along the Way

This isn't your typical coastal path : you're heading into the heart of Cornwall's mining heritage, where the landscape tells stories of copper, tin, and the people who worked this land.

The trail takes you through ancient woodland and windswept heathland, with industrial archaeology dotted along the route. You'll pass engine houses, mine shafts, and those wonderful carved granite signposts that feel like something from another era.

About halfway, you'll reach a hamlet at the hilltop with two pubs : perfect for a breather and a cold drink if the weather's warm. There are occasional cafés along the way too, so you're never far from refreshments.

The beauty of this route is how it changes as you go. You start with glimpses of the north coast behind you, climb through the moorland interior, then gradually descend toward the sheltered creeks and wooded valleys of the south coast. By the time you reach Devoran, you're in a completely different landscape : calmer, greener, with boats bobbing on the tidal waters.

🗺️ Making the Most of Your Ride

Go at your own pace

If you're reasonably fit, you can complete the Coast to Coast in about two hours at a decent clip. But honestly? There's no rush. Take your time, stop for photos, explore the mining remains, and make a proper day of it.

Plan for refreshments

• Start with breakfast or coffee in Portreath
• Stop at one of the hilltop pubs around the halfway mark
• Finish with lunch in Devoran : the Old Quay Inn is lovely

Think about the return journey

This is a one-way trail, so you'll need a plan for getting back:

• Cycle back the same way (22 miles total : totally doable)
• Arrange a pickup from Devoran
• Some bike hire places offer a shuttle service
• Make it a leisurely there-and-back-again adventure

🚲 Bike Hire and Practicalities

If you haven't brought bikes with you (and let's face it, most people don't pack a bike rack for their beach holiday), Elm Farm Cycle Centre near Portreath has you covered.

They offer:

• Standard bike hire for all ages and abilities
• Child seats and tag-alongs if you've got little ones
• Café facilities : brilliant for a post-ride cream tea
• Local knowledge : the team know the route inside out and can offer tips

Alternatively, if you fancy making the ride even easier, Coastal Trail Cycle Hire in Porthtowan offers eBikes. Those electric motors take the sting out of the climbs and mean you can focus on enjoying the scenery without worrying about arriving red-faced and gasping.

Either way, book ahead during peak season : bikes get snapped up quickly in summer.

🏡 Why It's Perfect for Our Guests

One of the things we love about our Porthtowan location is how much there is to do beyond the beach : and the Coast to Coast perfectly demonstrates this.

Our properties are ideally positioned for this kind of day trip. You can wake up to sea views, have a leisurely breakfast, then set off on your cycling adventure knowing you'll be back in time for a sundowner on your balcony.

It's particularly brilliant if you're staying for a week or longer. Beach days are wonderful, but sometimes it's nice to mix things up and explore a different side of Cornwall. The Coast to Coast gives you that variety without requiring a long drive or complicated logistics.

Families love it because it's achievable for older children (we'd say 8+), there are plenty of stops to break up the journey, and it feels like a proper expedition. Couples enjoy the peace and quiet of the traffic-free trail and the chance to discover Cornwall's industrial heritage together.

🌤️ Best Time to Go

The route is open year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly lovely when the weather's mild and the trails are quieter.

Summer can get busy, especially at weekends, but early morning or late afternoon rides help you avoid the crowds. Plus, longer days mean you've got plenty of time to complete the route without rushing.

Winter rides have their own charm : crisp air, dramatic skies, and the landscape takes on a wilder quality. Just check the weather forecast and dress in layers.

Whatever time of year you visit Porthtowan, the Coast to Coast is waiting. It's one of those experiences that quietly ticks all the boxes : scenic, accessible, historic, and properly Cornish. Whether you're a keen cyclist or someone who just fancies a gentle pedal through beautiful countryside, this trail delivers.

And the best part? You're back in time for fish and chips on Porthtowan beach, watching the sunset with tired legs and a proper sense of achievement.

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