Please enjoy my second ‘Postcards from Cornwall’ written by Karen Colam of Poldark’s Cornwall. For those who don’t know who Aidan Turner is (seriously?) then do watch the Poldark series on Netflix.
“The best way to view and experience the essence of old Cornwall is to drive almost as far west as you can on the A30. I say “almost”, because to automatically assume that you will feel the wildest that Cornwall has to offer by going to the very tip of Land’s End would mean you miss some of the greatest little gems that Cornwall delivers.
Heading through St Buryan towards Porthcurno or Porthgwarra takes you off the beaten track and into a treasure trove of little coves and windswept headlands. The production company of Poldark and the makers of the Rosamunde Pilcher movies know this area extremely well, as it gives them the most authentic on screen drama set than any designer could ever deliver. All they need to do is turn up with a talented production team, throw in some actors in costume and away they go! Movie magic!
Penberth Cove is one such cove. Best accessed by foot after a spot of lunch at the Logan Rock Inn in Treen, Penberth Cove is instantly identifiable as the “Sawle” village of the Poldark series. Bringing the on-screen images to life of where Morwenna crept over the stepping-stones to secretly visit her estranged son; where Ross rode Seamus through the ford; where Demelza walked over the Stepper bridge and where we frequently saw Drake moping around before he finally won his fair lady!
After visiting this hidden Cornish gem, why not walk the coast path to Porthcurno and perhaps book a visit to the magnificent Minack Theatre. Porthcurno has featured many times in the Poldark series and its stunning azure sea draws you towards it whether dipping your toes or immersing yourself and taking the plunge. It is also a favourite with dolphins and the occasional visiting humpback whale.
If you’re still full of energy and looking for more, a careful drive down the narrow winding lane to Porthgwarra Cove will bring you to the carpark and outdoor café, where you can fully refresh with a Cornish cream tea (jam first!) before walking to arguably the most magnificent headland of the South West tip: Gwennap Head. This was Aidan Turner’s favourite Poldark location to work on and with views to Land’s End , The Lizard and on a clear day, to The Isles of Scilly, it’s easy to see why.”
You can see why I asked Karen to contribute to my Postcards from Cornwall series, her knowledge is outstanding and Poldark almost runs through her veins. If you’d like to experience these wonders and more, and share in the company of her expertise, you can contact Karen directly on 07859803737 or by email : karen@poldarkscornwall.com. And don’t forget to mention me, or Live Beside the Sea, for exclusive discounts.