The best running trails around St Gennys

There are over 100 dedicated running routes around St Gennys, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include everything from challenging coastal paths to more sheltered woodland trails, catering to various fitness levels.

Running trails in St Gennys are known for their varied and often challenging terrain. You'll find dramatic coastal paths with significant ascents and descents, including sections of the South West Coast Path. There are 13 easy routes, 69 moderate routes, and 19 difficult routes. Expect a mix of coastal trails, inland tracks that can be wet or muddy, and quiet country roads. The region's high cliffs, like High Cliff, ensure plenty of elevation gain.

Yes, St Gennys is an excellent base for long-distance running, particularly along the South West Coast Path. For a challenging and extensive run, consider the Ladies' Window Arch – Barras Nose loop from St. Juliot, which spans 19.6 miles (31.6 km) and offers significant elevation changes and breathtaking coastal views.

The St Gennys area is rich with natural beauty and historical landmarks. Along your runs, you might encounter dramatic features like the Ladies' Window Arch, a natural archway in the cliffs. Other notable sights include the historic St Gennys Church perched on the clifftop, and panoramic viewpoints from headlands such as Castle Point and Pencannow Point. The Boscastle Harbour is also a popular attraction nearby.

Yes, the Cleave Valley, which runs down towards the sea, features a stream that becomes a waterfall at the cliff edge. While not explicitly listed as a route feature in all tours, the Pentargon Cliff and Waterfall – Boscastle Harbour loop from St. Juliot is a difficult 14.6-mile (23.5 km) route that specifically highlights a waterfall, offering a scenic and challenging experience.

Absolutely. While the coastal paths are prominent, you can find more sheltered running experiences in areas like Dizzard Woods. This ancient woodland is particularly beautiful in spring with bluebells and offers a different, more tranquil environment compared to the exposed clifftops. Many inland tracks and quiet roads also provide a break from the coastal winds.

The running routes in St Gennys are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from 17 reviews. Runners frequently praise the dramatic coastal scenery, the challenging yet rewarding terrain, and the variety of landscapes, from high cliffs to ancient woodlands. The breathtaking views and the sense of wildness are often highlighted as key attractions.

Yes, Crackington Haven is a popular starting point for circular routes. A great option is the View of Cambeak Headland – View of Pencannow Point loop from Crackington Haven. This moderate 3.9-mile (6.2 km) path provides panoramic vistas from headlands like Cambeak and Pencannow Point, overlooking the stunning coastline.

Yes, for a challenging run that takes you to Cornwall's tallest cliff, consider the View of Cambeak Headland – High Cliff loop from River Valency. This difficult 8.5-mile (13.7 km) route offers incredible views from High Cliff, which reaches 735 feet (223m), providing a truly dramatic coastal running experience.

Yes, if you're looking for a more accessible run directly from the village, the Running loop from St Gennys is a moderate 3.2-mile (5.1 km) trail. It leads through varied countryside and is often completed in about 33 minutes, making it a great option for a quicker, less strenuous outing.

The St Gennys area offers beautiful jogging conditions throughout much of the year. Spring brings bluebells to Dizzard Woods, while heather and gorse flower in August/September, adding vibrant colors to the landscape. The coastal paths can be exposed, so milder weather is often preferred, but the dramatic scenery is captivating in all seasons. Be prepared for potentially wet or muddy inland tracks, especially after rain.