Lovely Lakes in Cornwall for Serene Strolls & Activities

Siblyback Lake in Cornwall

While Cornwall’s coastline and beaches are undoubtedly the region’s centre of attention, its lovely lakes are hidden gems for year-round adventures. Our beaches are breathtaking but can be wild and blustery. The lakes, on the other hand, are pretty and peaceful, making perfect retreats for scenic strolls, sheltered picnics and fun-packed activities on – and beside – glassy waters.

From autumn colours and winter bliss to wildflower walks and summer sports, here are the best lakes to visit in Cornwall.

Colliford Lake, Bodmin

Where better to start your lake adventures than at Cornwall’s largest inland body of water? So often bypassed as you zoom along the A30 to your holiday home in Padstow, Colliford Lake is roughly the size of 682 football pitches, and well worth a detour from your fast-track to the coast. Keep your eyes peeled for kingfishers and wagtails as you wander along way-marked paths, freewheel along a network of bike trails from its banks to surrounding moorland peaks, take a bracing dip, or simply pause for a picnic at the water’s edge.

Porth Reservoir, Newquay

The buzzing surf town of Newquay is one of Cornwall’s most popular resorts – its surf beaches and vibrant ambience beckoning visitors in every season. But you don’t have to go far to dip out of the bustle for a dose of tranquility at the nearby Porth Reservoir. Few people know about this picturesque lake wrapped in woodland and rolling hills, where you can tunnel through quiet canopies and enjoy a refreshing contrast to the busy beaches. Set your sights on serene watery views, spot wildlife from birds to badgers, and seek out the crumbling ruins of manor houses on the Fir Hill Estate.

Stithians Lake, Redruth

Equidistant from the north and south coasts of Cornwall, Stithians Lake offers a very different watersports scene from what you find at the beach. In the heart of the striking mining landscape, it’s a popular location for the new craze of wing-foiling, paddleboarding and the more traditional windsurfing and sailing. Fishermen also love to spend time on its shores, waiting for the tell-tale tug of a rainbow trout. Personally, we love to soak up the serenity of this majestic body of water with a simple stroll, followed by a local platter and pint beside the fire at the lakeside Golden Lion Inn.

Swanvale Nature Reserve, Swanpool, Falmouth

For a break from Falmouth’s busy bays or blustery weather, step across the road from Swanpool Beach to the wildlife-rich tidal lagoon of Swanvale Nature Reserve (also known as Swanpool Nature Reserve). Wander through wooded wetland where over 100 bird species seek shelter, and you’ll no doubt spot the likes of tufted ducks and kingfishers. It’s also a popular spot for locals to congregate and race model sailing boats on the glassy waters, and there’s a lakeside crazy golf course if you fancy a bit of family fun. You can fully immerse yourself in nature on a 4.5-mile stroll around the lagoon and nature reserve, continuing on through the site of a medieval settlement before joining the coast path back to Swanpool.

Siblyback Lake, Bodmin Moor

This scenic lake isn’t far from Colliford and a little more off the beaten track. It’s smaller than its neighbour, but being completely enveloped in rolling moorland, we think Siblyback Lake is prettier – and more tranquil – than its neighbour. There’s a stunning 5km round-the-lake circuit that’s perfect for pushchairs, bikes and easygoing walks (dogs welcome), and come summer you can hire rowing boats, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards to hit the water. When you visit in winter, make the most of the early darkness to stargaze here too, as Bodmin Moor is a designated International Dark Sky Landscape.

Loe Pool, Porthleven

Hemmed by the woodland and dunes of the Penrose Estate, Cornwall’s largest natural lake is a delight for walkers, cyclists and picnickers in every season. While wild weather and waves lash nearby Porthleven Harbour, here you can retreat for a serene ramble around glassy waters surrounded by wildflowers in spring, fiery hues in autumn, and dramatic, mist-shrouded trees throughout winter. There are miles of footpaths to explore, but our favourite loop takes you around the lake and out to Loe Bar, where the Atlantic crashes onto the shingle bar that separates the serenity of Loe Pool from the rugged elements of the coast.

Tamar Lakes, Bude

What with bird hides, picnic areas and children’s play areas, these interconnected reservoirs on the border of Cornwall and Devon have become a mighty playground for humans and wildlife since they were constructed in the 1970s. Take a break from the rugged beaches of Bude on a circular 3-mile walking route around the Upper Lake. Or follow shorter trails to the Lower Lake, pausing for a picnic en route and not forgetting your binoculars to spot the impressive array of birdlife. If you fancy a more active adventure, head to the Tamar Lakes Activity Centre, where you can hire rowing boats, kayaks and paddleboards in the summer.

Crowdy Reservoir, Bodmin Moor

This hidden gem on the northern tip of Bodmin Moor is nestled in a Site of Special Scientific Interest, designated for its wealth of wildlife and natural habitats. The perfect retreat from the nearby tourist hotspots of Tintagel, Port Isaac and Boscastle, at Crowdy Reservoir you can experience breathtaking starling murmurations in the winter months and keep your eyes peeled for wildfowl, including teal and widgeon. What with the moorland being home to grasshopper warbler, cuckoo and snipe, walkers and wildlife lovers won’t be disappointed at any time of year.

Visit Cornwall’s Loveliest Lakes from a Local Holiday Home

Whether you fancy a sheltered spot for a scenic stroll, a two-wheeled adventure, or to try a new watersport in a calm environment, book your holiday cottage in Cornwall and enjoy time at these lovely lakes.