Penzance stands on the shores of Mount's Bay, recently voted one of the top ten most beautiful bays in the world. With spectacular views of St. Michael's Mount and the Lizard and the mildest climate in mainland Britain, it is ideally situated for those wishing to explore West Cornwall at any time of year.

It is perfect for walkers and birdwatchers or those just wanting to relax and unwind from the stress of life!The spectacularly rugged Cornish coastline offers dramatic towering cliffs, secluded sandy coves, incredible sunsets and wild seas.

Its moorlands attract a diverse abundance of wildlife, and from its coastline, you can regularly see seals, dolphins and basking sharks. It is without wonder that people return year after year and never tire of its beauty.

Head for the historic market town of Marazion, Newlyn fishing port, Mousehole or Sennen cove. Experience one of the dramatic performances at the Minack Open Air Theatre, cut into the Cornish coastline with the sea as the backdrop. Visit Cape Cornwall (7 miles), one of the most beautiful seascapes in the British Isles or escape to the dramatic remoteness of The Lizard peninsula with it's unrivalled beauty and unique feeling of space.

Epitomising the beauty of a seaside town steeped in history, St. Ives (9 miles) is loved for its' superb beaches, narrow cobbled streets, flower filled courtyards and warm welcome. Its Mediterranean allure, coupled with its distinctive Cornish character, restaurants and art galleries make it unmissable.

For art enthusiasts, a visit to the "Tate of the West" gallery in St. Ives is a must. The newly refurbished and extended Penlee Museum in Penzance, with its priceless collection of Newlyn School artists provides many treasures not to be missed. Add to these the Orion Gallery at Newlyn, and the myriad of other smaller galleries, and you will find West Cornwall rich in diversity and styles.

Along with the world renowned Eden project, Cornwall boasts no fewer than 74 gardens to visit, making it a horticulturists (and gardeners) paradise! Trengwainton, Trebah, Glendurgan, Trelissick, Lanhydrock, Trerice and the internationally known "Lost gardens of Heligan" to name a few.

A comprehensive 'clean up' by the local water companies, coupled with increased life guard cover has made our beautiful beaches both safe and pollution free. Marazion beach (4 miles), gently shelving, is ideal for families and those who need easy access. Other popular beaches are Porthcurno, St Ives and Sennen Cove.

If you prefer the uncommercialised little coves, try Porthgwarra, Mullion Cove, Kynance Cove and many others, all delightful, all unique and all within easy driving distance. For those of you who don't want to get in your car, Penzance beach is only 50 metres away !

Adults and children love Land's End (8 miles) and Flambard's (18 miles) with their many activities for a wet day. Also a must is the Paradise Park at Hayle with its awards for conservation and the Seal Sanctuary at Gweek where sick and injured seals are rescued all the year round.