The Atlantic Highway has a romantic, American sound to it, though many day-to-day commuters may disagree! This stretch of road, the A39, runs from Devon to us here in Newquay.
There’s a vast amount of scenic spots to stop and see when you are travelling either down to Cornwall, taking a day trip, or want some ideas on where to stop on the way home from, or to, Hendra.
The road is also pretty spacious for caravans and motorhomes (though a little narrow and windy at times – this is Cornwall after all!), so if you are planning to come on a touring holiday in Cornwall, this is a good scenic route for you.
Perfect for couples’ holidays in Cornwall, and those who love walking and exploring: the Atlantic highway offers some interesting, beautiful sights and a few surprises.
Here are some of our top picks to stop off at.
Watergate, Mawgan Porth, Bedruthan and Padstow
A brilliant stretch of coastline, this is a popular route for those looking for a scenic journey. It is the route that the Atlantic Coaster, an open top bus, takes too, which does come past us at Hendra, so you can opt to do this part of the Atlantic Highway via bus if you want. The bus journey is great as you can sit back and enjoy the views, without the stress of driving!
First off, Watergate, come up from Porth Beach and be met with the vast, jaw-dropping view across Watergate Bay. This long strip of beach is a favourite with surfers, walkers and anyone who loves a nice view and beach!
Further on find Mawgan Porth, most recently famed for being visited by A-listers with Cate Blanchett, Jason Momoa, and Chris Martin all rumoured to have been spotted here. This pretty coastal settlement, has a nice west-facing beach, some shops and places to enjoy a nice meal.
Padstow Harbour, Matt Jessop
Onwards, there’s Bedruthan Steps, this iconic bit of Cornish coast is famed for its giant rock stacks. Park up and take in these breathtaking views. It is also a great place for stargazing, with little light pollution in the area.
Now to Padstow, which is famed for its foodie scene, largely thanks to celebrity chef, Rick Stein. You’ll also find Paul Ainsworth restaurants here too, another a TV chef. Enjoy traditional Cornish food too with cream teas, pasties, fish and chips, Cornish fudge and Cornish ice cream on offer aplenty. Make sure you visit the Lobster Hatchery and see some conservation in action!
Padstow’s pretty harbour is next to the Camel Estuary. You can walk or cycle the Camel Trail, to Wadebridge if you wish: the views are worth the leg work. There’s also numerous boat trips, over to the coastal village of Rock, dubbed by some as Cornwall’s St Tropez.
Camel Trail Matt Jessop
Port Isaac, Tintagel, and Boscastle
The coast gets wilder as we go up the coast, and we approach Tintagel, which is shrouded in myths and legends.
First though, the famed village of Port Isaac, known for being the filming location, and setting, of the popular Doc Martin TV show starring Martin Clunes. This quaint fishing village has charming winding streets to explore, and beautiful coastal walks.
King Arthur at Tintagel , by Visit Cornwall
Further up, Tintagel. This wild part of the Cornish coast, is home to Tintagel castle, which is linked with Arthurian legend. Immerse yourself in the history and mysticism of this castle and town. Tintagel is home to some jewelry and crystal shops as well as the nearby St Nectan’s Glen.
St Nectan’s is a popular place for those seeking spirituality, with its natural beauty, remote location and awe-inspiring waterfall.
Onto Boscastle, a village and fishing port, with coast aplenty to explore. It is also home to the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic. This independent and unique museum has a large collection of artifacts relating to Witchcraft.
Boscastle, Cornwall. by Adam Gibbard.
Stay with us and explore the Atlantic Highway
Explore this part of Cornwall, and make the most of it before the crowds. Hendra is a perfect place for couples seeking affordable accommodation, or those seeking something more luxurious.
Or bring a motorhome or touring caravan down, we have so many spots for you to pick on our award-winning parkland.
