Get Outdoors

13th February 2025

Get Outdoors: Explore Nature and Wilderness

Nestled along Cornwall's stunning coastline, Newquay offers far more than its famous surf spots. From picturesque gardens to ancient woodland trails, the area boasts an array of outdoor experiences that showcase both natural beauty and rich heritage. Here's your guide to discovering Newquay's lesser-known outdoor treasures.

Trenance Gardens

Step into Trenance Gardens and you'll find yourself transported to a different era. These meticulously maintained Edwardian gardens serve as Newquay's green heart, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling beach scene. Winding pathways lead visitors through carefully manicured flowerbeds, where seasonal blooms create an ever-changing tapestry of colour. The boating lake, framed by weeping willows, provides a serene backdrop for afternoon strolls, while the charming Tea Room offers traditional Cornish cream teas in a garden setting.

Cardinham Woods: Adventure in Ancient Woodland

Just a short drive from Newquay lies Cardinham Woods, a 650-acre woodland paradise that beckons outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Ancient oak and beech trees create a dense canopy over miles of marked trails suitable for all abilities. The onsite cafe, housed in an old woodsman's cottage, provides the perfect pit stop for homemade cakes and warming soups after exploring the trails.

Bridge Bike Hire: Explore on Two Wheels

Transform your woodland adventure by partnering with Bridge Bike Hire, where knowledgeable staff match you with the perfect bike for your ability and ambition. Whether you're seeking a gentle family ride or an adrenaline-pumping mountain bike experience, their well-maintained fleet caters to all needs. The team's local knowledge proves invaluable, offering insider tips on the best trails and hidden viewpoints.

Trerice Manor House: Where Gardens Meet History

This magnificent Elizabethan manor house is surrounded by gardens that tell tales of centuries past. The restored gardens feature period-appropriate plants and design elements, including:

- A traditional knot garden

- Tudor bowling green

While the house itself impresses, the gardens provide a perfect outdoor classroom for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Time your visit for late spring to catch the wisteria in full bloom along the manor's façade.

Saunassa: A Nordic Twist on Coastal Wellness

Perhaps Newquay's most unique outdoor experience, Saunassa brings Nordic wellness traditions to the Cornish coast located in the heart of Newquay. Saunassa is proud to provide a unique and relaxing experience that promotes overall health and wellness. With a wood-fired sauna, hot tubs, chilled baths, cold plunges, and a place to relax, bringing all the elements to make you feel refreshed and revitalised. 

Navigate through the invigorating stages of heat and cold in their unique outdoor setting. Get transported on a thermal journey. A Nordic Spa, featuring two wood-fired hot tubs, a wood-fired sauna, two chilled baths, a cold plunge, and a relaxation area. Immerse yourself in hot & cold therapy, and a digital detox. Saunassa Nordic Spa redefines your expectations of relaxation.

Planning Your Outdoor Adventure

Each of these locations offers a different perspective on Newquay's outdoor heritage. Consider visiting Trenance Gardens in the morning when the flowers are at their freshest, followed by an afternoon of cycling the Camel Trail with Bridge Bike Hire. Save Trerice for days when the weather might be variable, as you can alternate between indoor and outdoor exploration.

For the ultimate wellness day, start with a morning cycle, explore Trerice's gardens in the afternoon, and finish with a sunset sauna session at Saunassa. Whatever your outdoor interests, Newquay's diverse offerings ensure memorable experiences beyond the beach.

Remember to check opening times seasonally, as some facilities operate reduced hours during winter months. Many locations offer annual passes for regular visitors, providing excellent value for those planning multiple visits throughout the year.