Thursday, June 2, 2011

Discover Family Vacations In Cornwall

By Dean Henry


Beautiful Cornwall boasts gorgeous beaches, rugged cliffs, seaside towns and country gardens. It's surrounded on 3 sides by water, the Atlantic Ocean on the north and west, and the English Channel on the south. Visit traditional villages stepping back in time for a personal glimpse of history. Family vacations in Cornwall can be as exciting or as relaxing as you choose.

Swim, surf, kayak, or sail at any of the 300 plus beaches. Relax and fish. For a little adventure consider rock climbing. Stroll the quaint villages and country gardens. Visit museums, art galleries, castles.

Newquay is popular with surfers. Many businesses rent surf or body boards. While in Newquay also take in the Blue Reef Aquarium, home to hundreds of sea creatures. The Newquay zoo houses over 130 species of animals.

Experience rural life with a visit to the Cornish Heritage Center at DairyLand Farm World. Kids will love the many residents; lambs, piglets, donkeys, rabbits, a llama, chinchillas, chipmunks, and storks. Daily activities include pony rides and a Lamborghini hayride. There's also a playground for some old-fashioned run around and play time.

Trebah Gardens in a sub-tropical jungle collection of rare shrubs and trees. The jungle tumbles 200' down a ravine. A stream and waterfall end at the secluded and private Helford Beach where visitors can swim and picnic. A must see for the kids is the 16' high tunnel of giant rhubarb.

Eden Project Global Garden is nestled in a crater of an old clay pit. Explore the 'bio domes'. Enjoy themed events and musical concerts. Eat at on-site restaurants or cafes, and browse the gift shop. It's an all day adventure.

Kids love theme parks. Crealy Great Adventure Park offers roller coasters, log and raft rides for thrill seekers. There's also mazes to explore, an indoor play area, and even a toddler's only playground. Hidden Valley Discovery Park is a one-of-a-kind experience that will thrill the younger crowd. Join a hunt for lost crystal, visit a very secret garden and try not to get lost in the maze. There's a train ride and a magical hobbit trail. It's a place where imagination comes to life.

Don't miss the magical and mysterious castles. Step back into Medieval times. Legend places the birth of King Arthur at Tintagel Castle. Wander around the ruins, explore Merlin's Cave, and then stop for lunch at the beach cafe.

St Michael's Mount was built on an island. Today this castle still stands. Visitors can tour the castle and the grounds. At low tide the castle is accessible by foot. Walk the causeway to the castle from the village of Mounts Bay. Boat service to the island is also available.

Stroll or bike the Camel Trail through the beautiful countryside. It's 11 miles along an old railway line between the villages of Bodmin and Wadebridge. No vehicles are allowed on the trail and it's a level easy stroll even with strollers and wheelchairs.

Find a local Tourist Information Centre for up-to-date information on local attractions and festivals. Stay at a hotel, a Bed & Breakfast, a cottage, or rent a camper van. Family vacations in Cornwall offer something for everyone. Live history as you stroll through quaint towns and country villages. There's outdoor activities, castles, museums, zoos, and theme parks.




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