National Trust - Penrose

Penrose is a sprawling nature reserve that feels like you've stumbled into someone else's private Cornwall - all windswept grassland, hidden coves, and that particular quality of light you only get when the Atlantic's pounding away a few hundred metres off. The National Trust runs it with a light touch, which means you get proper wilderness rather than a manicured visitor experience.

The main pull is the coastal path that loops around and down to Gunwalloe Church, a medieval affair sitting right on the beach like it's daring the sea to argue. Most people tack on the beach walk itself, where you'll find the kind of sand that goes on forever and rocks that look like someone threw a fit. The estate also covers around 600 acres inland - proper walking territory with woodland and farmland that changes with the seasons.

Walkers will get the most from this. It's not a quick tick-off kind of place; you want at least two to three hours to do it justice. Families with children who can manage uneven ground will find it rewarding, though there's no hand-holding infrastructure - which is either brilliant or annoying depending on your outlook. The nearest town is Praa Sands, which is more of a village really, so stock up beforehand.

If you're staying at The Secret Garden Glamping just down the road, Penrose makes an excellent morning or afternoon jaunt. Free admission, no visitor centre nonsense - just pull up and walk. Go when the weather's decent; this isn't the sort of place that improves in horizontal rain.