Cornish Celtic Way and the Two Cornish Caminos
Distance: 125 miles
Start: St Germans Priory
Maps: OS Explorer 102, 104, 106, 107, 108, 109
Cornish celtic way:
The Cornish Celtic Way is a 125-mile pilgrimage route that crosses the breadth of Cornwall, running from St Germans in the east to St Michael’s Mount in the west. Along the way, it incorporates more than 60 miles of the South West Coast Path and links two established pilgrimage routes: the Saints’ Way and St Michael’s Way.
Although the Cornish Celtic Way is not a camino in its own right and is not formally waymarked throughout; It connects with routes that are clearly signed and easy to follow. Pilgrims can also take part in a dedicated passport scheme, collecting stamps at churches, along the journey.
The cornish saints' way:
One of the key routes linked by the Cornish Celtic Way is the Saints’ Way, a coast-to-coast walk of around 30 miles. It begins at Padstow Harbour on the north coast and heads south through Little Petherick, across St Breock Downs, and on towards Lanivet, following ancient pathways once used by early Christian missionaries.
Near Helman Tor, the trail splits into two options. Both routes are part of a camino-style walk and include stamping points for their own passport schemes.
The western route passes close to the Eden Project before continuing through St Blazey and Tywardreath, once the site of a medieval monastic settlement. From here, walkers can choose to cut inland or follow the coast path south to arrive in the beautiful harbour town of Fowey.
The eastern route offers a gentler, waterside alternative, travelling via Golant and following the River Fowey downstream to the same destination. It’s a quieter, reflective stretch, with woodland paths and river views guiding the way.
St Michael’s Way:
At the western end of Cornwall lies St Michael’s Way, a 12.5-mile camino route that crosses the peninsula from Lelant on the north coast to Marazion and St Michael’s Mount. Like the Saints’ Way, it has its own passport scheme and is well established as a modern pilgrimage.
At Ludgvan, the route divides, giving walkers a choice. The direct path leads straight towards St Michael’s Mount, with the island gradually rising from the sea ahead. The longer alternative loops via Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens and Gulval, before following the coast towards the Mount.
Map:
This map is provided for informational purposes only and is accurate as of the date of publication of this blog. No representations or warranties, express or implied are made regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information after that date.
Comments
Post a Comment