Cornwall Travel Guide: St. Ives, Newquay, and a Bluetti Power Bank Adventure

A Cornish Adventure: Exploring St. Ives and Newquay

Cornwall, with its stunning coastline, charming fishing villages, and golden sandy beaches, is a popular destination for a UK staycation. In this video, we join a couple and their dog, Lily, as they explore the beautiful county of Cornwall while their self-built Sprinter camper van is being reconverted. This is a story of travel, adventure, and the challenges of finding your way in a new place.

St. Ives: A Picturesque but Crowded Destination

The journey begins in St. Ives, a picturesque town known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant art scene. However, the video quickly highlights the downside of visiting a popular destination on a Saturday – the crowds. The town is bustling with people, and finding a parking spot is a challenge. The narrow streets are packed, and the sheer number of people makes it difficult to navigate, especially with a dog. The video offers a valuable tip for those visiting St. Ives by car: parking is cheaper after 6 PM. Despite the crowds, they manage to find a quieter spot at 'The Greek' restaurant, which they highly recommend for its delicious food and stunning views. They also explore the beautiful Port Widden Beach and the picturesque cove beaches around St. Ives, although the gray sky means the water isn't as clear as it could be. A comical moment ensues when a seagull steals Jordan's ice cream, a classic Cornish experience!

The Challenge of Finding Van Park-ups in Cornwall

For those traveling in a camper van, finding a place to park for the night can be a challenge, especially in popular areas like Cornwall. The video highlights the difficulty of finding van park-ups on the Newquay/St. Ives side of Cornwall, suggesting that the other side of the county might be less commercialized and offer more options for wild camping. This is a valuable piece of information for anyone planning a van life trip to Cornwall.

Powering Adventures with the Bluetti AC200L

The video features a segment on the Bluetti AC200L, a portable power bank that proves to be a lifesaver during their trip. With their van out of action, the Bluetti provides them with a reliable source of power, allowing them to keep their devices charged and even power a fan to keep cool. This is a great example of how a portable power station can enhance your travel experience, whether you're in a van, a tent, or even a lodge.

Newquay: A Street Food Haven

From St. Ives, they head to Newquay, a town famous for its surfing beaches. After an unsuccessful attempt to find food at one spot, they stumble upon 'The Boathouse', a street food venue on the beach. They rave about the food and the atmosphere, highlighting it as a must-visit spot in Newquay.

A Cracking End to the Trip: Crabbing in St. Ives

On their last night, they decide to go crabbing in St. Ives harbor. Using smoked bacon as bait, they have a successful evening, catching several crabs, including a spider crab, and even a fish. They also encounter a large jellyfish and a seal, adding to the excitement of their crabbing adventure. In a heartwarming gesture, they donate their crabbing gear to another family, spreading the joy of this classic seaside activity.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Cornwall

What is the best time of year to visit Cornwall?

The summer months (June to August) are the most popular time to visit Cornwall, with the best weather for enjoying the beaches. However, this is also the busiest and most expensive time of year. The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) are a great alternative, with pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. The winter can be a beautiful time to visit, with dramatic coastal walks and cozy pubs with roaring fires, but many attractions may have reduced opening hours.

What are the best things to do in Cornwall?

Cornwall has something for everyone, from surfing and coasteering to exploring historic castles and gardens. Some of the must-see attractions include St. Michael's Mount, the Eden Project, the Lost Gardens of Heligan, and the Minack Theatre. It's also worth taking the time to explore the charming fishing villages, such as St. Ives, Padstow, and Port Isaac.

Is Cornwall dog-friendly?

Cornwall is a very dog-friendly county, with many beaches, pubs, and attractions welcoming dogs. However, it's always a good idea to check in advance, as some beaches have restrictions during the summer months.