Port Navas

A settlement since medieval times, Port Navas — which is thought to translate as ‘Cove of the Sheep’ — is a peaceful hamlet at the head of one of the Helford River’s seven creeks. Back in the mid-1800s, however, it was a busy port, serving the booming granite trade from the quarries around Constantine. Contemporary accounts talk of “immense numbers of granite blocks piled up 40 or 50 feet”, waiting to be loaded into ketches, schooners and smacks and transported to London. Known for its oyster beds, Port Navas’ attractions include two quays, constructed in the mid-1900s. The Higher Quay is now home to the Port Navas Yacht Club.

 One of the area’s finest hotels  — Budock Vean — is also only a short walk away from Port Navas. From the hotel jetty on Port Navas creek, a path leads up to the four-star hotel through 65 acres of sub-tropical gardens, waterfalls, terraces and woodlands. The hotel facilities include an indoor pool, a spa and a nine-hole/18 tee golf course, designed by five-times Open winner James Braid. It also boasts an AA Rosette Award for its food, which is local, fresh and imaginative.