The Best Nature Trails and Wildlife Spotting Near Fowey

The Best Wildlife Spotting and Nature Trails in Fowey

If you are someone who is keen to experience outdoor activities in Cornwall and nature trails, Fowey is a perfect base of operations. Beautifully situated on the Fowey Estuary, with easy access to the South West Coast Path, this charming little town has plenty to recommend it. Wildlife spotting, geocaching, water sports, and much more await the outdoor adventurer, and we have recommendations for some of the very best experiences.

Eco-tourism Fowey

Fowey is brimming with opportunities for eco-tourism and sustainably exploring the gorgeous Cornwall coastline. Activities like kayaking along the River Fowey, taking sustainable boat tours to observe the local marine wildlife, and exploring the South West Coast Path are all responsible ways to enjoy the region’s beauty. Many local businesses in Fowey have embraced green initiatives, with restaurants like the one at Old Quay House focusing on the use of locally sourced or foraged produce, and locally farmed meats and cheeses. Near Fowey, you will find organizations that are committed to educating the public about biodiversity and sustainability, including the Eden Project, the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, and the Screech Owl Sanctuary.

Wildlife Spotting in Cornwall

Cornwall boasts a wide range of animals, in the air, on the cliffs, in the water, and in the fields and woodlands. Its location makes Fowey perfect for wildlife spotting, and it is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Whether you are at the water’s edge, out in a boat, in the woods, or taking a clifftop walk, you will see an amazing array of animals. Birdwatchers will be thrilled to spot the local species, which include kingfishers, sandpipers, greenshanks, curlews, egrets, and herons. Cornwall is a wonderful place for seeing grey seals, dolphins and porpoises, basking sharks, sunfish, and sometimes even orcas, especially if you take a boat tour out into the open water. Looking back towards the shore, you may see puffins and guillemots perched on the cliffs. Take a walk inland, and you will discover woodlands and meadows full of life. You are likely to observe deer, foxes, and rabbits, as well as butterflies and bees.

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Outdoor Activities at the Fowey Estuary

The Fowey Estuary provides the opportunity to commune with wildlife, explore the outdoors, and make memories with your family. It can be a busy spot, but there is so much to do and see that you should never be discouraged from getting out there and experiencing this beautiful area. Remember to pay attention to dangerous cliffs, rising water and other hazards, and always supervise children carefully. Be respectful of the local wildlife, being careful not to disturb marine wildlife or farm animals. Be cautious, too, of ticks, because it is easy to catch them inadvertently when walking through tall grass.

  • Go fishing. You can fish in several places around the estuary, whether you prefer fishing from a boat or from the shore. In these lively waters, you will find mackerel, bass, wrasse, conger eels, and pollock.
  • Pick up a paddle. Taking a canoe or kayak through the scenic wooded creeks of the estuary gives you an intimate encounter with wildlife and a new perspective on the surrounding landscape. You can launch your own canoe from various spots along the estuary or choose self-hire or guided tours. Paddling the river, you can explore the tributaries that lead to Lerryn and Lostwithiel, and you may be fortunate enough to spot an otter or a pod of dolphins.
  • Go for a sail. For centuries, Fowey has been an international trading port. The deep water makes getting in and out of it easy, and it is very appealing to modern yachtsmen. If you do not have a boat, you can hire one, and if you are not a sailor at all, you can still enjoy the thrill of gliding through the water on a boat trip.
  • Try geocaching. There are hidden caches all around the estuary, and all you need to find them is a GPS or smartphone. When you find hidden treasure, choose something to take, and leave something for someone else to find.

Take a Walk from Fowey

Fowey’s location makes it ideal for taking a walk, regardless of your ability or the kind of landscape you wish to explore. Stunning coastal vistas, tranquil rural views, and shady woodland paths await, within easy reach of the Old Quay House Hotel.

  • Fowey Hall Walk: This moderately challenging walk is a dog-friendly circular route. It is a beautiful walk, through woodland and creek, and can be started in Bodinnick, Polruan, or Fowey. This four-mile walk typically takes 2.5 hours. It has been a popular walk since Mediaeval days, and involves a wooden bridge, and two ferry rides. Along the way you will pass the ‘Q’ memorial to Arthur Quiller-Couch, walk down to the small hamlet of Pont, and essentially experience the very best of Fowey.
  • The Gribbin Head Walk at Fowey Estuary: The gorgeous countryside to the west of Fowey is so inspirational that Daphne du Maurier chose it as the setting for many of her books. Take this circular coastal walk, and you will get a feel for all the varied landscapes of the area, passing beaches, coves, woodland, and grassy fields of wildflowers. Along the way, you will pass historically significant sites like St Catherine’s Castle. The route passes through picturesque countryside, woodlands, and along the cliff tops, offering plenty of chances to spot local wildlife and enjoy panoramic vistas of St Austell Bay, as well as Gribbin Head, with its iconic red and white Daymark stands as a beacon for sailors.
  • Covington Walk from the Fowey Estuary
    If you are looking for one of the best nature trails in Fowey, the Covington Walk is likely to fit the bill. Starting from the Fowey Estuary, this peaceful riverside trail takes you through serene woodland and past quiet inlets. As you catch glimpses of the River Fowey, you will have opportunities to spot herons, kingfishers, and other local wildlife along the way. Along the way, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the estuary and rolling hills, providing a perfect balance between woodland calm and open landscapes. It is a hidden gem for nature lovers exploring Fowey, and the perfect place to bring a picnic.

Enjoy the Outdoors While You Stay at the Old Quay House Hotel

The Old Quay House Hotel is positioned on the Fowey Harbour, with an outdoor terrace overlooking the estuary, and it is the perfect place to stay if you love the outdoors. Nestled in the heart of Fowey, in a beautifully picturesque location at 28 Fore Street, this riverside boutique hotel offers a modern-day bolthole away from life’s stresses and chores. Check with us for special offers, and we will do everything in our power to make your stay even more special. For more information about our rooms, our special offers, or our spectacular restaurant, email [email protected], or contact us through our website.

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