Helford River Walks

At Budock Vean Hotel & Spa, we’re lucky to have some of the best coastal and riverside walks in Cornwall right on our doorstep. From our location on the stunning Helford River, we are close to the South West Coast Path, which also forms part of the newly inaugurated King Charles III England Coast Path (KCIII ECP).

Budock Vean Hotel & Spa sits on the South West Channel Coast section of the KCIII ECP, with this stretch running from Penzance to the Hampshire border. The section between Penzance and Cremyl is complete and fully open, with work continuing on other sections around the country. Once complete, the King Charles III England Coast Path will stretch for around 2,700 miles.

For easy navigation, look out for the acorn waymarkers used along the South West Coast Path. These apply to the KCIII ECP as well, and you may also see signs saying “now part of the King Charles III England Coast Path”.

Walks near Budock Vean Hotel & Spa

Head out past the Budock Vean golf course into Helford Passage (the Ferryboat Inn is always worth a stop) and join the South West Coast Path. Follow the path alongside the Helford River, passing attractions including Glendurgan Garden and Trebah Garden, and enjoy peaceful river views as boats, kayakers and paddleboarders drift across the water below. Continue towards Rosemullion Head and on to Falmouth, where parts of the route have been improved to create a more accessible walking experience. Budock Vean Hotel to Falmouth is just over 8 miles following the South West Coast Path.

Alternatively, catch the ferry from Helford Passage across to Helford village and pick up the path around Gillan Creek through ancient woodland and quiet creekside landscapes. From here, you’ll be exploring the Lizard Peninsula, the most southerly peninsula in mainland Britain, with more beautiful coastal walking routes to discover.

After a day exploring Cornwall’s coastal paths, return to the comfort of Budock Vean Hotel & Spa. Unwind in the Natural Health Spa, take a dip in the indoor swimming pool, relax in the sauna or outdoor hot tub, and dine in our restaurant or on the terrace overlooking the gardens and golf course. It’s the perfect place to relax after a walking break on the Helford River.

Join our guided walking break in Cornwall

This September, escape to our countryside retreat for a guided Walking Weekend at Budock Vean Hotel & Spa. Over three nights, discover a different side of this beautiful region with guided walks led by local expert Steve Crummay from Explore in Cornwall, with routes shaped by the landscapes, coastline and wildlife of West Cornwall.

With more than 30 years of experience in conservation, Steve has spent decades walking, climbing and kayaking in remarkable places. His knowledge of Cornwall’s wildlife, passion for the natural world, and professional background as an ecologist and Mountain Leader bring a rich, informative perspective to every walk, helping guests experience the landscapes around the Helford River in a deep and meaningful way.

Discover the Walking Weekend from 4^th-7^th September

Explore all breaks and packages at Budock Vean Hotel & Spa

For more inspiration on walking in Cornwall and route planning, visit:

King Charles III England Coast Path website

South West Coast Path website

Budock Vean Hotel & Spa is proud to be a South West Coast Path Mile Maker. Find out what it means to be a Mile Maker in our blog here.