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Islands of Serpentine

Now owned and cared for by the National Trust, Kynance Cove has been popular since Victorian times. The brilliant turquoise water and white sand, with islands, caves and unexpected views are still a powerful draw today

The beach's defining features are the serpentine rock formations, including the distinctive pinnacle to the north of the beach. This red and green stone, which is found throughout the Lizard Peninsula, has been formed, over thousands of years, into otherworldly shapes from caves, sea stacks and islands. These all have their own quirky names such as the Asparagus Island, The Drawing Room and The Parlour.

Kynance is one of the prettiest coves in Cornwall and as a result one of the most painted and photographed. It is also becoming one of the most visited, especially after it featured in an episode of Poldark. This means it can become quite crowded during the summer and arriving early, or returning at a less busy time is recommended.

Situated just above the beach is the Kynance Cove Beach Cafe. It has operated there for nearly 100 years and is the perfect spot for a crab sandwich, Cornish pasty or cream tea. Photo voltaic solar roof tiles have been installed on both the cafe and the cottage roofs, which generate enough electric to run the new toilet block and produce hot water for the cafe - even supplying additional energy that feeds into the National Grid.

 

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Uploaded on August 18, 2023
Taken on May 14, 2023