After a chance siting of a picture of this amazing looking beach, we knew we had to see it for ourselves. So, at the end of July we headed down south for an adventure.
We’ve not done much exploring in those parts, as we love North Cornwall, so we were looking forward to going somewhere different. We knew it wasn’t going to be easy to access, but we hoped it would be work the trip.
It was surprisingly quick to drive down to the southern tip, thanks to the newly re-opened double lane bit of the A30 (whoop!), after what feels like years of road works while they improved it.
The tide and the weather were on our side and we parked up, grabbed some pasties & directions from the local shop, and headed off on foot. Pedn Vounder can also be accessed from the coast path from Porthcurno, or walking along the beach during a low spring tide.
The unusual name Pedn Vounder comes from the Cornish ‘pedn’ meaning head or end and ‘vounder’ meaning lane. The famous Logan Rock, a block of granite thought to weigh about seventy tons, can be seen at the headland to the east of the beach.
Only take essentials and preferably put them in a backpack, as the last part of the walk is a descent from the coast path, which involves climbing down fairly steep rocks at the end. Good shoes are also a plan, I had to chuck my flip-flops down and find them on the beach later! Having said that, don’t be put off as William (aged 4) made it easily, as did Rascal the Jack Russell with his tiny legs.
The views during the whole walk to the beach were just breath taking. We had to stop and take more photos, as it was just so beautiful, a very memorable walk indeed. We all just loved the beach and had the best day. We paddled, swam, found jellyfish, played rounders, ate pasties, sunbathed and kept and eye on the tide.
This beautiful part of the Penwith Peninsula is next to the famous Porthcurno Beach and has been featured in the popular drama series Poldark. Amongst others, it was the stunning backdrop when Ross and Demelza walked and talked before his smuggling trial.
Just a word of warning if you do head out to Pedn Vounder, it is an unofficial Naturist beach. I would say the majority of people there the day we went had their swimmers on, but felt it was worth a heads up ;)
Address: SW Coast Path, St Levan, Penzance TR19 6LF
Parking: Follow signs to Treen and park their £2 a day.
Remember to respect the water and be aware of the tides.
Dog friendly beach.
Check out this video.