The dream beach of Kynance Cove in Cornwall

The beauty of Kynance Cove with its two beaches, which only appear at low tide, is certainly one of the highlights of the Cornish coast. For those not hiking the entire South West Coast Path, rounding the southernmost point of the British mainland, Lizard Point with its distinctive lighthouse, offers an easy and varied day hike that reaches its climax in the afternoon at Kynance Cove.

Fortunately, the Kynance Cove Cafe is located there too; once you’re settled on the benches or deckchairs on the sun terrace between the cliffs, you won’t want to get up again – whether that’s due to tiredness, the unique view of the sea, being full of delicious food, or all three reasons combined, is ultimately irrelevant. Although the turquoise water and white sand convey a southern flair, the water and air temperature could easily be 5 degrees warmer. At least numerous rocks provide sufficient shelter from the wind, but many guests still head into the water wearing wetsuits.

But even at high tide or during a storm, the dramatic and rugged charm of the Lizard Peninsula’s landscape reveals itself – a churning surf shatters into fine spray against the colourful granite rocks, heathland turns into pasture, idyllic villages huddle in valleys and narrow coves offer a protective harbour here and there.

More pictures from London in the Great Britain photo gallery.