Luxury Holiday Homes for Sale

Holdiday Homes at Gwendreath, Kennack Sands

Gwendreath and Kennack Sands are located on the eastern side of the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall, England, known for their natural beauty and coastal charm.

The East Beach at Kennack Sands

Gwendreath

Gwendreath is a small coastal hamlet on the Lizard Peninsula. The area is known for its scenic beauty, dramatic landscapes, clear waters and stunning views of the rugged Cornish coastline and nearby coves. The area is popular for its tranquility, making it a peaceful retreat with easy access to coastal paths and beaches. It offers a quiet retreat surrounded by lush countryside and cliffs. Visitors to Gwendreath can easily access nearby beaches and enjoy scenic walks along the South West Coast Path, which passes close by.

The coastline around Gwendreath is part of the Lizard Point and Kynance Cove Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), reflecting its significant ecological and geological importance - as part of the Lizard Complex, the oldest part of the Earth's crust in South West England. These rocks contribute to the unique geology and landscape of the coastline.

The South West Coast Path runs along the coastline, providing walkers with scenic routes and access to nearby beaches and landmarks.The coastline is rich in marine life and is a good spot for seal sightings. It is also part of the Lizard Marine Conservation Zone, which is designed to protect the diverse array of species that inhabit the waters around the peninsula. The cliffs and coastal areas around Gwendreath are home to various plant species, including rare and endemic flora such as the Cornish chough and the Lizard orchid. Offshore, you can see the dramatic sea stacks known as The Lion and The Lioness, which are remnants of ancient cliffs eroded by the sea. The waters around Gwendreath are known for their clarity and are popular for snorkeling and diving.

Kennack Sands

Kennack Sands, just to the east of Gwendreath, is a more prominent destination, consisting of two sandy beaches separated by a small rocky outcrop. It’s a popular spot for families, surfers, and walkers due to its expansive golden sands and relatively sheltered location. At low tide, rock pools are revealed, making it a fun spot for exploring. The beach is backed by dunes and cliffs, providing a dramatic backdrop.

Kennack Sands is a picturesque beach located on the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall, England. It is known for its beautiful golden sands, clear turquoise waters, and rugged coastal scenery. The coastline at Kennack Sands is characterized by its dramatic cliffs, rock formations, and the presence of serpentine rocks, which are a type of metamorphic rock with a distinctive green and red colour.

The coastline is dotted with rock formations, including the iconic serpentine rocks, which are remnants of ancient ophiolite, formed when oceanic crust was pushed up onto the land. These rocks give the area its distinctive appearance and contribute to the rich geological interest of the region.

The beach is situated approximately 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) southeast of Helston and 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) west of the Lizard Point, the most southerly point on the British mainland. The coastline at Kennack Sands forms part of the Lizard Heritage Coast, an area of outstanding natural beauty.

Kennack Sands beach is accessed via a narrow, winding road that leads to a small car park above the beach. From there, visitors can take a short walk down to the sands. There are also paths that connect to the South West Coast Path, offering scenic walks along the clifftops.

The beach is quite large and is divided into two main sections by a stream, which can be crossed at low tide. The eastern end of the beach is more sheltered and is excellent for swimming and sunbathing. The western end is more exposed and often frequented by surfers due to its consistent waves.

The East Beach at Kennack Sands is dog-friendly throughout the year, making it a favorite for pet owners. The West Beach allows dog walking for "most" of the year but has restrictions in place, during the peak holiday season.

There are basic facilities at the beach, including toilets and a seasonal café. There are lifeguards during the summer, but visitors should exercise caution when swimming or participating in water sports. The beach is known for its excellent water quality. The coastal waters are home to various marine species, and the cliffs are important nesting sites for seabirds, including fulmars, kittiwakes, and cormorants. The nearby Kynance Cove is a known spot for seals.

The West Beach at Kennack Sands

Together, Gwendreath and Kennack Sands offer a perfect combination of tranquility and natural beauty, set within the stunning landscape of the Lizard Peninsula, the southernmost point of mainland Britain, with opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, surfing, and wild-life spotting. The Lizard is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, unspoiled beaches, and unique geology, characterized by rare serpentine rock. This area is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), known for its diverse plant life, including rare species like the Cornish heath.

The peninsula offers numerous coastal walks along the South West Coast Path, revealing panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and secluded coves. The Lizard is also home to charming fishing villages like Cadgwith and the iconic Lizard Point, where visitors can explore the historic lighthouse. The region’s rich maritime history and stunning landscapes make it a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking the tranquility of Cornwall’s wild, rugged coastline.