Recommending a special campsite is something of a double-edged sword. On one hand you don’t want to upset the camping clientele who discovered this little pocket of paradise; “Pleeeeease don't tell anybody where it is" and "We don't want this place overrun with tourists" are both statements often heard around these parts. On the other hand, Penmarlam Caravan & Camping Park is such a lovely site. With its idyllic location, welcoming staff and faultless facilities, Hipcamp simply had to share the secret. So if you enjoy estuary walks and stunning coastal scenery, do yourself a favour and pay the friendly folk of Penmarlam a visit. But just try and keep it a better secret than we did!!
Penmarlam is divided into two camping areas. The top field offers breathtaking views across the surrounding Cornish hills, whilst the lower is more sheltered and screened by shrubbery. Both areas provide generously-sized pitches with enough room to give neighbouring families a wide berth. Better yet, campers can choose their preferred location upon arrival. The reasonably-priced onsite shop is jam-packed with groceries, guidebooks and camping accessories. Plus, there's free Wi-Fi, immaculate showers, award-winning loos (yes, you read that right!) and an information centre to help campers make the most of the local attractions.
With its assortment of cliff-top paths and woodland trails The Fowey Estuary is the perfect place for all types of walkers. By far the most popular of these estuary strolls is ‘The Hall Walk’, which offers striking views all the way out to sea. Its circular path follows the banks of the river and utilises both ferries (via Bodinnick, Pont Creek and Polruan or vice versa). For a longer walk you can divert at St Wyllow Church, then join the coastal path, heading towards the ancient fishing village of Polruan. Most savour the still green waters in summer, but the walk is lovely in autumn too, when the leaves start to turn and heather adds its colour to the heathland.
If you’re lucky enough to own your own boat, then spending lazy days relaxing on the Fowey Estuary is plain sailing at Penmarlam. Campers can set sail straight onto the shimmering waters from the slipway that borders the site. Or you can always hire a kayak, or simply jump aboard one of the ferries to pretty Fowey and beyond. Whichever way you decide to set sail we think you’ll love the local area and Penmarlam Caravan & Camping Park itself. But remember, it’s a secret!