For some great ideas on getting out and about in Cornwall this September, read on ......
Wildlife encounters
Even though wallabies aren't native to Cornwall, at the Tamar Otter Sanctuary near Launceston they quite happily live alongside free roaming Fallow deer and families of otters that provide an entertaining stop off for the family on the moor.
Circles of time
Just outside the village of Minions one of the best preserved stone circles in the UK stands below a striking rock formation known as the Cheesewring. Erected in the Bronze age, the stones have an infinite air of mystery and make for great photo opportunities at sunset.
On the water
Although the sea is a jaunt away, at Siblyback Reservoir near Liskeard, lessons in windsurfing, sailing and canoeing are provided by the Southwest Lakes Trust and this stretch of water is an ideal safe location for beginners to learn new skills and confidence
Leave a message at St Nectan's waterfall
St Nectan's Glen has been a place of spiritual healing since pre-Christian times. This sacred site has a gorgeous waterfall that drops sixty feet into a pool where messages and offering are left on the rock ledges.
Get a round in at St Enodoc
Ranking an admirable 55th in the world; St Enodoc near Rock has one of the finest links golf courses in the UK with all the rolling fairways, firm greens and all the blind shots you could want, but with the added bonus of stunning views.
On your bike
The easygoing Camel Trail from Padstow to Bodmin, via Wadebridge, is a great way to see the countryside and get a little fitter into the bargain. The 5 mile stretch from Wadebridge to Padstow, with bike hire at either end, or the 6 mile stretch from Wadebridge to Bodmin which runs alongside a wooded river and passes Camel Valley Vineyard is well worth making the effort for.
Get high near Bude
Near the weirdly named Strangles beach between Bude and Boscastle, a favourite haunt of the author Thomas Hardy, climb the coast path up to the highest cliff in Cornwall at a towering 742 feet.
Have a snifter at Camel Valley
Beating off opposition from around the world; Camel Valley Vineyard wins prestigious awards for its wines nurtured in a tranquil location near Wadebridge. Find out what all the fuss is about on a fascinating tasting tour.
On the edge at The Lizard
Become a daring adventurer and stand on the most southerly tip of the UK mainland at Lizard Point. The starting point for many ships before they cross the Atlantic Ocean, watch the ferocious sea from the cliff top or visit the new lighthouse visitor centre.
Dolphins at Coverack
Renowned as a playground for aquatic mammals, see if you can spot Bottlenose, Common and Risso dolphins as they show off for you in the wide bay off the beach.
Healing stones at Madron
Constructed well over 3,000 years ago, Men-an-Tol is one of Cornwall's most mysterious ancient monuments. It is said that if you pass through the hole of the doughnut shaped granite slab nine times the healing power of the stones will cure a multitude of aches and pains.
Steamed up at Levant.jpg)
Designated a World Heritage Site the old mining areas of West Cornwall stand as a silent reminder of the county's industrial past, but at Levant Mine a few miles from Land's End, Cornwall's oldest working beam engine comes spitting and chuffing back to life with the evocative sounds of long ago.
The Monkey Sanctuary, Looe
Rescued from all over the world, apes and monkeys get some longed for TLC by dedicated staff at this fascinating and informative refuge for troubled primates.
Walk up to Gribbin Head tower
A sensuous hill climbs up from Menabilly, the former home of the author Daphne du Maurier, to a striking red and white striped tower standing over 80 feet tall that helps ships navigate the treacherous coastline.
Ferry ride from Durgan to Helford and back
The Helford is gorgeous enough with its leafy creeks and abundant wildlife but to really appreciate the setting you have to get on the water. Jump on the passenger ferry at the tiny hamlet of Helford Passage near Mawnan Smith and nip across the river. In a few minutes you'll reach Helford village - just enough time to get a pint in at the Shipwrights Inn.
Courtroom dramas
Once the administrative centre of Cornwall, Bodmin still retains a sense of civic formality, and at the old Shire Hall courtroom you can participate in a mock Victorian trial. Cast your vote on the accused and decide their fate.
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