Activities
The coast and countryside areas of Cornwall are home to any number of exciting and unusual days out, from water sports to some traditional rural pursuits. Why not try your hand at some of the following?
Deep Sea Fishing
Combine beautiful coastal scenery with a spot of deep sea fishing on a chartered boat trip, available from most large seaside towns. The Mystique runs trips from Newquay for anglers of all abilities, with the chance to experience shark, wreck and reef fishing. For more information, visit www.fishnewquay.co.uk.
Pony Trekking
Seeing some of Cornwall's most beautiful places on horseback is an unforgettable experience. Sunrising Riding Centre near Liskeard run guided treks across Bodmin Moor for riders of all abilities - for more information visit www.tminternational.co.uk.
Fly Fishing
Argal Reservoir at Penryn has 65 acres of fly fishing for stocked rainbow trout, a picnic area, play area and wooded walks. Boats are available, with special facilities for wheelchair users and handicapped anglers. For more information, telephone 01579 342366.
Yachting and Sailing
Falmouth is a natural harbour and a haven for yachtsmen, so you'll find plenty of sailing schools and yacht charters at the marina to meet your every need. From here you can take a pleasure boat trip up the River Fal, learn the ropes with a sailing lesson or even hire your own luxury yacht for the day.
Water Sports
The Cornish coast is renowned as having great conditions for water sports, with sheltered bays for beginners and some challenging breaks for the more experienced. Big Blue Watersports on the Lizard offer lessons in windsurfing and kayaking for all age groups and abilities, plus a unique 'takeaway' service for proficient windsurfers. For more information, visit www.totaltravel.co.uk.
Diving
With its dramatic underwater topography dotted with shipwrecks and abundant marine life, Cornwall is a paradise for divers. The Sal Diving Company, midway between Plymouth and Falmouth, runs courses in scuba and open water diving, taking groups out to explore the artificial reefs of Cornwall's haunting sunken ships. Find out more at www.saldivingcompany.com.
Surfing
Although the beaches of the South coast are not as famous for surfing as their northern counterparts, some great waves can still be found. Praa Sands, between Helston and Penzance, and Kennack Sands on the Lizard peninsula both offer some good beach breaks, while the challenging conditions at Porthleven, near Penzance, put it on every experienced surfers must-see list.
Falmouth Motorboat Charters
Enjoy a skippered half day or day charter of the luxury cruiser Windana with Falmouth Motorboat Charters. Suggested itineraries include a cruise in and around the sheltered waters of the Fal Estuary; out across the Bay to the Helford River; a trip along the coast to Fowey; or even out to the Isles of Scilly.
www.falmouthmotorboatcharters.co.uk