Stincking Cove

The name alone raises an eyebrow, but Stinking Cove near Treyarnon is worth a visit if you're already exploring this stretch of the Cornish coast. It's a small, rocky inlet that lives up to its rather unflattering moniker - at low tide, the exposed seaweed and rocks do emit a distinctive briny whiff, particularly on warm days. Nothing offensive, just that honest, salty smell of the sea doing its thing.

What you're really here for is the raw coastal scenery. The cove sits tucked between rugged headlands, and if the tide's out, you can pick your way across the rocks to explore tidal pools teeming with starfish, anemones and small fish. It's the sort of place that appeals to rock-poolers and photographers more than swimmers - the water's cold, the access is fiddly, and there's no golden sand to speak of.

The walk down takes ten minutes or so from the clifftop path, which itself is part of the South West Coast Path if you're doing a proper hike. Families with young kids might find it a bit scrambling-heavy, but older children who don't mind getting their trainers wet will enjoy the rock exploration.

As a standalone destination, it's a diversion rather than a main event. But if you're staying at one of the nearby parks - Porthilly Beach Holiday Park or Dennis Cove Campsite are within easy striking distance - it's worth thirty minutes of your time. Go at low tide for maximum rock-pool action, and don't expect facilities. This is honest Cornish coastline, untouched and unpretentious.