Perfect Campervan Road Trip Through Roseland Heritage Coast
Read Time: About 16 minutes
Roseland. Thomas Tolkien
Welcome to the next stop on the itinerary of our exciting campervan road trip through Cornwall! Today, we explore the stunning Roseland Heritage Coast. Join us as we take a campervan through this area renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty. This Heritage Coastline is a diverse landscape comprising jagged cliffs, golden sand beaches, surrounded by undulating farmland. Not only is it a feast for the eyes, but there’s plenty of rich and varied wildlife and unique coastal flora to admire as you travel around and soak in the scenery. Travelling the Roseland Heritage Coast makes you appreciate just how many inviting campsites in Cornwall are waiting to be discovered.
This is part seven of our Cornish campervan road trip, be sure to check the other parts above. The Roseland Heritage Coast is a popular destination for outdoor activities like walking the South West Coast Path, wildlife watching, sailing and more. iInd out more on our campervan road trip along the Roseland Heritage Coast.
- Where is The Roseland Heritage Coast?
- How Big is The Roseland Heritage Coast?
- The Roseland Heritage Coast Road Trip Itinerary
- Beautiful Cornish Villages Along The Roseland Heritage Coast
- Coastal Views Along The Roseland Heritage Coast
- The Roseland Heritage Coast Campervans Price
- Camping in and around The Roseland Heritage Coast
- Best Roseland Heritage Coast Campsites
- The Roseland Heritage Coast Campsites Near St Mawes
- Campervan Hire Towns in The Roseland Heritage Coast
- Next On to Polperro Heritage Coast!
Where is The Roseland Heritage Coast?
Located on the southern coast of Cornwall it stretches from St. Mawes in the west to Gorran Haven in the east, with a coastline overlooking the shimmering English Channel. The perfect spot to explore in a campervan hire. There is some debate over where the peninsula starts and ends, and some often say it lies between St Austell and Truro, working its way around Carne and the Pendower beach to St Anthony Head.
Within 56 acres of stunning lakes, meadows and woodlands in St. Austell, Meadows Lake opens the door to the most scenic views of the Cornish countryside.
How Big is The Roseland Heritage Coast?
The Roseland Heritage Coast covers approximately 41 kilometres (25 miles) of the southern Cornish coastline. The precise land area will depend on how it is measured, as the Roseland Coast is a relatively compact area with stunning scenery at every turn and home to some of the most gorgeous UK campsites.
The Roseland Heritage Coast Road Trip Itinerary
The Roseland Peninsula is a designated National Landscape that picks up in popularity from spring to Autumn. It is a relaxing and stress-free space with plenty of attractions to explore, and a true escape from the overcrowded Cornish hotspots. Kick back on the balmy coastline on the south coast, and spend your holiday uncovering picturesque villages and beautiful beaches.
The unspoilt landscape lends itself to a gorgeous area brimming with wildlife ranging from Dartmoor ponies and seals to birds and different species of butterflies. Bring your field glasses along to admire a variety of birdlife at places like Nature Head, home to gannets, razorbills, and fulmars, plus the chance to spot marine life like dolphins in the water below the headland. Hop on the South West Coast Path from Carne Beach to Nare Head to soak in stunning ocean views and the opportunity to observe wildlife on the cliffs and coves. St Anthony Head, a National Trust Site, is perfect for those who enjoy watching marine sea life, like dolphins and seals, during the quieter months of the year. Walk the nature trails and the historic St. Anthony Lighthouse, which offers sweeping views of the Fal Estuary and the open sea. Gerrans Bay, which includes beaches like Porthcurnick and Portscatho, is home to wading birds like oystercatchers and sandpipers.
Birdwatch and beach comb at low tide for crabs and rock pool creatures in the shallow waters. For more rock pooling days with the family, check out Towan Beach near Portscatho, which has rock pools with crabs, sea anemones, and fish. The Percuil River and Creek is a haven for various birds, including herons, curlews and kingfishers. Explore the sheltered waters by kayak or a riverside stroll, and see otters, shellfish and birdlife. We also recommend Dodman Point, another fab spot with panoramic views of abundant wildlife, and Trelissick Gardens, a mix of garden and woodland trails perfect for spotting birds and small mammals.
Tent, Campervan and Motorhome from £30
Southleigh Manor Holiday Park is a friendly, well-maintained site, nestled on the grounds of a stunning manor house, just a twenty-minute drive from Newquay, Padstow and the Eden Project.
If beaches are what drew you to the Roseland Peninsula, there's plenty to keep you entertained throughout your stay. Porthcurnick Beach is a popular pet-friendly spot with golden sands, glittering seas, and a car park nearby. The Hidden Hut is a great spot to grab a coffee and a light snack after a walk on the beach. Summers Beach in St Mawes is ideal for swimming and kayaking on calm, turquoise waters. Parking and shops, cafes, and toilets are available in the village. Towan Beach is a spacious and peaceful beach near St Mawes, with parking about a minute's stroll away. Sit back and watch the sunset with your canine companion. Gorran Haven Beach, at the bottom of the village, is a gorgeous stretch of sand ideal for swimming and walking with your dog. Great Molunan and Little Molunan Beach, sheltered by St. Anthony's Head, boasts gorgeous views across stunning lighthouses and can be accessed by car or boat. The two beaches are connected at low tide and welcome dogs yearly. To truly make the most of the Roseland Heritage Coast, consider campervan hire Cornwall and enjoy the freedom to wake up by a new beach each morning.
Beautiful Cornish Villages Along The Roseland Heritage Coast
Gorran Haven. 35mmMan
Drive your campervan along the coastline discovering village after village, With plenty of picture-postcard villages to explore, the Roseland Heritage Coast is the perfect place to soak in the magic of Cornwall. The picturesque coastal Cornish village of St Mawes with glittering blue seas, white sands and lovely cottages. Wander the winding streets, slurp ice cream in the sunshine on one of three fantastic beaches, or spend a blissful afternoon gliding on the tranquil waters. The peaceful and picturesque village of Portscatho has plenty of stunning walks, galleries, and an incredible selection of eateries. Head to Gerrans for peaceful ambles through the countryside and coastlines. Enjoy the feel of traditional Cornish life as you stroll along quiet lanes and stop at local shops to stock up on farm-fresh produce to sizzle over the grill at your campsite. Portloe is considered one of the prettiest villages in Cornwall, with plenty of Cornish charm and a rich history as a hotspot for smuggling. Within easy reach of St Mawes and Falmouth rests the historic village of Veryan, home to five unique thatched roundhouses at the start of the town, which was thought to safeguard the settlement from evil. The village of Tregony, also known as the gateway to Roseland, is enveloped by stunning walks, with a fab pub for sorting delicious post-excursion food and ales.
Coastal Views Along The Roseland Heritage Coast
Coastal views are sublime, and many campsites in the area look straight towards the ocean. Explore walks like St. Anthony Head to St. Mawes, a stunning 5-mile walk starting at St. Anthony Head Lighthouse. The route runs along the South West Coast Path and winds past coves, woodlands, and wildlife-rich areas, ending in St. Mawes, where walkers can explore St Mawes Castle. Several other gorgeous routes wind past stunning Cornish scenery, like Nare Head to Carne Beach, Portloe to West Portholland, and Pendower Beach to Portscatho, all of moderate difficulty.
Treveor Farm is a lovely, quiet and well-positioned campsite nestled on a peaceful working farm. The site rests amid the lush sceneries of Cornwall’s stunning countryside.
Cornwall is famed for its unspoilt landscapes that delight a naturalist’s soul, while beautiful beaches and secret coves. Take a look at our campsites below, find the perfect spot, sit back, and watch the world go by. If you’re active, amp up the tempo with adventurous water sports like kayaking and paddle boarding, or tour the ancient castle and ruins like St Anthony’s Head Battery.
If you’d rather stay on land and potter around quaint fishing villages, pop over to Portscatho, which beckons with colourful cottages, a thriving art scene, hidden coves and sandy beaches. We’ve got plenty of campervan owners in the area, too, so come on and journey through the beautiful Roseland Heritage Coast.
The Roseland Heritage Coast Campervans Price
Hire a campervan in the Roseland Heritage Coast and go to a spectacular Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with gorgeous beaches, jaw-dropping scenery, and plentiful coastal capers to suit all tastes. Campervan prices vary depending on the time of year you decide to make a booking, the duration of your holiday and the campervan model. Longer bookings often win better rates, as do bookings made in the off-peak seasons. Find campervans in the Roseland Heritage Coast starting at £50 per night, and set out to create unforgettable memories.
Camping in and around The Roseland Heritage Coast
Roseland. Thomas Tolkien
There are plenty of attractive spots if you’re going to camp along the Cornish coastline; however, the Roseland Heritage Coast may very well fall within the top three locations to set up a tent or park your campervan. A vast and diverse landscape brimming with craggy cliffs, quiet creeks, sheltered woods, and alluring beaches provides a fantastic playground for adventuring sorts. Wildlife thrives in these untamed parts, and the area is home to rich mediaeval and military history. There are dog-friendly beaches for canines and a stunning network of walking and cycling routes, including the renowned South West Coast Path. Escape the noise and crowds of Truro while enjoying quick access to The Roseland from campsites in St Erme or Shortlanesend. You’ll find great cycling and walking trails around campsites in Mevagissey, which is perfect if you’re looking for a day out from the Roseland. Don’t forget, campsites in Bristol are just a drive away, offering a mix of countryside calm and vibrant city escapes to complement your Perfect Campervan Road Trip Through Roseland Heritage Coast.
Find campsites in Mevagissey, the picturesque village which allows campers to set up their tents and touring vehicles on privately owned, family-friendly beaches or quiet woodland. If you enjoy more of a no-frills holiday, campsites in Shortlanesend will fit the bill. Alternatively, park your van at a campsite in St Erme to explore Truro and Newquay easily. With these easy-to-access camping locations and well-positioned starting points, you’re well-located for a fantastic stay at a campsite on the Roseland Heritage Coast.
When you park your camper at a campsite in St Erme, you can look forward to a peaceful countryside escape while being in proximity to some of Cornwall's top attractions. From the campsite, visitors can easily explore the vibrant city of Truro, with its stunning cathedral and charming cobbled streets. For nature lovers, the nearby Roseland Peninsula and Trelissick Gardens offer scenic coastal strolls and beautifully landscaped gardens. With its beautiful setting and proximity to Cornwall’s natural and cultural gems, camping in St Erme is perfect for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. We list 422 campsites within 30 miles of St Erme, and offer more campsites in Goonhavern, campsites in Truro, campsites in Perranporth, campsites in Newquay, campsites in St Columb Major and campsites in Chacewater.
Veryan Camping and Caravanning Club Site is a quiet, relaxing campsite with stunning tree-framed scenery, a friendly atmosphere, and a lovely secluded location for folks who want to get away from it all.
When you stay at a campsite in Shortlanesend, you can easily access the stunning Cornish countryside. From your chosen campsite, explore nearby St Erme, a charming village just a short drive away. The surrounding area is perfect for nature walks, and it's close to attractions like the Trelissick Gardens and Truro Cathedral, providing guests with a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. With its peaceful setting, Shortlanesend is ideal for campers looking to savour Cornwall's natural and historical treasures. We have 371 campsites within 30 miles of Shortlanesend, and more campsites in Scorrier, campsites in Redruth, campsites in Penstraze, campsites in Cambrose, campsites in St Agnes, campsites in Portreath and campsites in Camborne.
Nestled between the harbour and lush countryside, our campsites in Mevagissey are perfect for exploring the area’s picturesque coves and scenic trails. Explore local attractions like the Lost Gardens of Heligan, one of Cornwall’s most magical estates, and the Eden Project, famous for its biomes and diverse plant life. If you want to check out locations to rest your head near Mevagissey, check out our campsites in St Austell, campsites in Par, campsites in Penwithick, campsites in Fowey, campsites in Fraddon, campsites in Lostwithiel and campsites in Polperro.
Best Roseland Heritage Coast Campsites
We have selected three stunning campsites near the Roseland Heritage Coast that provide amenities and easy access to nearby attractions. Higher Kestle Farm is handily positioned to access Mevagissey, St Austell, and the Lost Gardens of Heligan. Pensagillas Park is a fab base for quiet countryside retreats close to the Cornish coastline, while Court Farm Campsite is a green open campsite for both tents and touring vehicles. We’ll explore these campsites in detail below.
Pensagillas Park in St Austell
Pensagillas Park, St Austell
Pensagillas Park is a peaceful campsite in the heart of Cornwall’s stunning countryside. Surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery, it offers a relaxing retreat for nature lovers. The park features spacious pitches for tents, caravans, motorhomes, modern facilities, a fishing lake, and easy access to nearby attractions. Located just a short drive from The Lost Gardens of Heligan and Mevagissey’s charming harbour, Pensagillas Park is an ideal base for exploring Cornwall’s beautiful landscapes, coastal paths, and rich history, offering a perfect balance of adventure and tranquillity.
Higher Kestle Farm in St Austell
Higher Kestle Farm, St Austell
Higher Kestle Farm is a spacious, green site on 300 acres of open countryside, just a 5-minute drive from the lively village of Mevagissey. The quiet location provides a welcome respite from the bustle and buzz of Cornwall’s attractions. Yet, the site is perfectly positioned for exploring the Eden Project (2 minutes), Newquay (45 minutes) and several other scenic villages plus attractions. The site offers spacious grass pitches for tents and touring vehicles, along with excellent amenities, like toilets, showers, a washing-up area and more. The owners welcome barbeques on the pitches and well-behaved dogs throughout the year. Several excellent pubs are nearby, making this a must for campers who enjoy lush settings and quiet nights under the stars.
Court Farm Campsite in St Austell
Court Farm Campsite, St Austell
Court Farm Campsite in St Austell offers a serene, family-friendly camping experience in the heart of Cornwall. Located just a short drive from the famous Eden Project and Charlestown Harbour, this campsite is ideal for exploring the area's stunning attractions. With spacious pitches on grass for tents and touring vehicles, excellent facilities like toilets, a launderette, free Wi-Fi, plus a peaceful atmosphere, it's perfect for campers of varying budgets and camping needs. Visitors can enjoy the sandy beaches of Carlyon Bay and the charming town of St Austell, home to breweries and local shops. The surrounding countryside provides ample opportunities for scenic walks, making Court Farm an excellent base for a Cornish getaway.
The Roseland Heritage Coast Campsites Near St Mawes
St Mawes is just 18 minutes from the Roseland Peninsula via the A3078, making it an excellent base for our readers who want to camp close to the stunning National Landscape. Treloan Coastal Holidays in Portscatho, is just a short drive from St Mawes, and offers stunning seaside vistas with a relaxed coastal atmosphere ideal for unwinding after a long day of sightseeing. Pitches are well-spaced for maximum privacy and they are pet-friendly too, so feel free to bring along all members of the family. There is a van selling coffee, a fishmonger nearby, and nights for ordering food right to your pitch. Facilities are clean and rustic, and the coastal path is at your doorstep. Take scenic walks into Treloan or Portscatho and stop at one of three fantastic pubs nearby for tipples and giggles with the locals.
Treloan Coastal Farm Holidays, formerly known as Arthur’s Field, is a quiet and lush campsite boasting a history of natural farming methods dating back to the 1930s.
Located near Portscatho, Trewince Holiday Lodges is a well-reputed family park in a quiet location, enveloped by nature, yet only a short stroll from St Mawes. Located 4 miles from Padstow, the site boasts beautiful rural views, with carefully landscaped plots with shrubs and bushes, creating a lovely setting for campers to escape the modern world. The campsite has both lodges and pitches for guests, and the plots are on both grass and hardstanding, welcoming both tents and touring vehicles. Campers can splash on the site’s walled and heated swimming pool with a sunbathing area and enjoy excellent amenities, like an on-site shop and a fish and chips seller who calls twice a week.
Campervan Hire Towns in The Roseland Heritage Coast
Place House. Phil
There’s no better way to uncover the sweeping, unspoilt landscapes and peaceful beaches than in the comfort of a home on wheels. The freedom to wander or rest, paired with the thrills of setting up camp in gorgeous campsites overlooking a beach or amid spectacular scenery, is what makes campervan hire Roseland Heritage Coast a brilliant way to travel. If you’re starting your journey from further afield, campervan hire Bristol makes it easy to set off towards the Roseland Heritage Coast and soak up every mile of the adventure.
Wander around the curve of St Austell Bay and explore gorgeous coastal scenery in an area brimming with natural beauty, thriving wildlife and creative communities. The coastline is a haven for watersports, while the inland regions are brim with a mixture of walking and cycling trails winding through varied terrain—Potter around the town centre, a hubbub of activity offering a delightful look into creative communities. Wander Fore Street to explore cafes, restaurants, and shops, or stop at the St Austell Brewery for an immersive experience. Discover more about this area of Cornwall by visiting the Wheal Martyn Museum. Whether you’re venturing out to explore the nearby Lost Gardens of Heligan or simply enjoying the tranquillity of a scenic coastal walk, a campervan hire in St Austell promises unforgettable memories. Take a look at our listed 32 campervans and motorhomes within 100 miles of St Austell, or find more campervans for hire in Mevagissey, campervans for hire in Lostwithiel and campervans for hire in Bodmin.
Age: 25-70
Travel: UK Only
Gearbox: Manual
Please Note - Minimum 3 day hire period. - Big Blue is a modern classic camper. All of the style of a VW camper with the reliability of a water cooled diesel engine. Back to the 90s.
Par, a quiet village on the south coast of Cornwall, is renowned for its long sandy beach, Par Sands, perfect for seaside strolls and family outings. The nearby Eden Project, one of Cornwall’s most famous attractions, offers a chance to explore vast biomes filled with tropical and Mediterranean plants. For nature lovers, Par Marsh is an excellent spot for birdwatching, while the surrounding countryside entices walkers to enjoy scenic trails. Charlestown Harbour, a short drive away, is ideal for history buffs who want to explore Cornwall’s maritime history. It has been used as a set for many films and TV shows. Hire a campervan in Par and explore local attractions, or head over to the Roseland Peninsula for a day out. We have 32 campervans and motorhomes within 60 miles of Par, and more campervans in Fowey, campervans in Polperro and campervans in Fraddon.
Penwithick, a small village in Cornwall near St Austell, is a peaceful location surrounded by nature. One of the main attractions is the nearby Eden Project, a world-renowned ecological park featuring massive biomes brimming with exotic plants from around the globe. Bodmin Moor is nearby for outdoor enthusiasts, providing access to scenic walks and wildlife spotting. The area is also home to remnants of Cornwall's rich mining heritage, with sites like the Wheal Martyn Clay Works Museum looking into the region's industrial past. Penwithick provides a quiet base to explore these fascinating Cornish treasures, so hire a campervan in Penwithick and spend a wonderful holiday a short drive from the thrills of the Roseland Peninsula. Browse through 32 campervans and motorhomes within 60 miles of Penwithick. For more options check out our campervans for hire in St Columb Major.
Age: 25-70
Travel: UK Only
Gearbox: Manual
Snowball is a 2010 T5 Pop top lovely Campervan, fairly standard conversion but does include fridge, sink, 2 x gas burner hob and grill also has underslung 30l water tank and outside shower point.
Next On to Polperro Heritage Coast!
And there we have it! A detailed campervan road trip to the Roseland Heritage Coast, complete with our top campervan hire locations in Roseland, our recommended campsites to park your campervan for the night, and three fab locations to book a campsite along the Roseland Heritage Coast. We hope you enjoyed our Roseland Heritage Coast campervan road trip and that you have some good pointers to help plan. Join us again as we rumble over to the gorgeous Polperro Heritage Coast on our An Itinerary for the Best Cornish Road Trip in a Campervan and explore its many famous points of interest.
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