Gillan Cove and its beautiful neighbour, Flushing Cove, are two of our favourite little secret gems. An absolute haven for anyone who enjoys swim-walking, wild swimming, SUPping, walking, or just getting away from it all. Sit down and listen to the birds in the trees above with the gentle lap of the water below. Nestled off the beaten track, with no parking /tourist facilities, these secluded spots tend to be quiet throughout the year. You have to put effort into reaching them, but when you do, oh my, that effort is rewarded!
Fully dog friendly throughout the year, tucked away at the entrance to the Helford Estuary, we wholeheartedly recommend you check these out.
Below are a few photos/video clips to show why we love these magical coves quite so much.
With no easily accessible parking, you can walk to Gillan Cove down the footpath from the nearby lane. There are a few passing spaces on the closest lane, which are big enough to accommodate a car and still allow passing. Alternatively, this footpath is approximately a 2-mile walk from Number 7.
The walk down to Gillan Creek..
It is an enchantingly beautiful spot – so peaceful…. just listen to that birdsong… (This was taken at low tide in March)
“The Hera” at the entrance of Gillan Cove
At Gillan, there is an unusual small prominentary. This area, known as “The Hera” provides protection to the cove. This creates a gentle area to swim or paddleboard in, particularly at high tide.
To the South of the The Hera, there are more exposed coves, where you can feel the full force of the open water at the entrance of the Helford. This video clip is taken walking up the grassy bank of The Hera.
Standing on the top of “The Hera” at the entrace of Gillan Creek and looking out to sea and towards the entrance of The Helford. Listen to the difference in the wind at this point, when compared to the clip taken in the sheltered part of the Cove (they were taken on the same day).
Walking Round to Flushing Cove
From Gillan Cove, you can either walk South on the coastal path to head to the more exposed Nare Point, passing an absolute multitude of hidden coves along the way… or head North for the very short stroll around to Flushing Cove. Flushing is another similar tiny cove, perfect for spending a relaxed day enjoying the water and walks at a totally different pace.
Walking down into Flushing Cove along the coastal path. (Video taken at low tide in March.)
From Flushing Cove you can either continue on around the coastal path, up around Gillan Creek, or stroll up the little lane, back towards Number 7 (or your car).
We hope you enjoy exploring this area as much as we do.
You might also be interested in our other post about 5 top swim spots in the Helford or our page with a map on it.
Look out for our next post… heading up around Gillan Creek to St Anthony-in-Meneage…