The Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall is one of the most beautiful and dramatic parts of the English coastline – and it’s perfect for a summer or winter staycation
With its dramatic cliff faces, sun-kissed turquoise waters and pristine white sands, you could be mistaken for thinking this slice of England was a Caribbean paradise. But no, this heavenly spot is none other than Lizard in Cornwall – a stunning region that boasts some of the UK’s most picturesque beaches, making it an ideal destination for both summer and winter staycations.
The rugged shoreline is peppered with quaint coves and fishing hamlets, and the area’s unique geology sets it apart from the rest of Cornwall. The ground under your feet is composed of rocks that came into existence a staggering 350 million years ago, and the terrain is at the mercy of the elements, jutting out into the Atlantic winds.
For centuries, it has been the initial glimpse of land for seafarers returning, and it frequently serves as a sanctuary for rare birds thrown off their navigational path while over the ocean.
The Lizard Peninsula is also renowned for the local serpentine stone, a unique rock characterised by its dark green hue, streaked with red and white. Queen Victoria was reportedly fond of the stone and had a fireplace constructed from it at Osbourne House on the Isle of Wight.
Lizard is home to one of England’s top beaches – Kynance Cove. This breathtaking beach features remarkable rock formations speckled with the green and red veins of serpentine stone, sculpted over time into stacks, islands and caves across the beach.
When the tide recedes, you can explore the caves and islands up close, but always keep an eye on the tides to avoid getting marooned. However, bear in mind that Kynance doesn’t have lifeguards, so if you’re enticed by a swim in the crystal-clear turquoise water, proceed with caution.
The Lizard Peninsula also houses the SEA LIFE Trust’s Cornish Seal Sanctuary, which welcomes visitors. Each season, the Sanctuary nurses over 70 rescued seal pups back to health and offers a lifelong home to animals requiring special care from their team of marine animal specialists.
Visitors to the sanctuary have taken to Tripadvisor to praise the knowledgeable staff and commend the enjoyable experience. One said: “Lovely small sanctuary, it’s obvious the staff really care about the seals, penguins and sea lions.”
Another added: “The work done here in providing rehabilitation for seals is amazing.
“The staff are all so dedicated and share their knowledge and stories of the seals as you walk round. We timed it for feeding and there was a member of staff providing commentary throughout. The same was done while watching the penguins feed.”
