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    Stithians Reservoir Circular Walk

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Easy
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    2-2.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    8.0 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    181 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead
    Stithians Reservoir Circular Walk

    The Stithians Reservoir Circular Walk is a waterside adventure in Cornwall that will see you traverse the shoreline of a fairly large reservoir. While out walking the trail, you will make your way along the edge of the Stithians Reservoir, passing through fields, marshes, and forests as you enjoy views across the calm surface of the water. Walkers should take note that some portions of this route are a tad overgrown and can become very muddy in wet weather, requiring good walking boots to traverse.

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    Route Description for Stithians Reservoir Circular Walk

    While the Stithians Reservoir Circular Walk isn’t much of a challenge, it does feature some sections that are a bit rough and overgrown, as well as areas that can be muddy in the winter/spring. Be sure to wear proper walking boots in order to better traverse the landscape. Additionally, a good portion of the walk will follow along a road, so you will need to exercise caution and keep an eye out for passing vehicles.

    Even though the route isn’t in pristine condition, that doesn’t mean that it isn’t a fun adventure. Lovely views of the reservoir and surrounding terrain, as well as the chance to partake in some watersports after your walk make this a great option to spend the day outdoors in Cornwall.

    Setting out from the car park at the Stithians Lake Watersports Centre, you will make your way to the southwest along the edge of the water and enjoy some nice views across the reservoir, before heading through a marshland area along a stone path. After rounding a large swathe of fields on your right, you will pass through a smaller section of marsh and eventually meet up with the road in the village of Penmarth.

    Turning right here, you will follow the road for 1.3 km and turn left to pick the footpath back up. Continuing along the trail, you will work your way around the southern portion of the reservoir and enjoy some more pleasant views, before crossing over the Stithians Dam Wall. Keep left here along the trail as it continues to skirt alongside the edge of the water, eventually leading you around the northern end of the reservoir to meet up with the road.

    From here, you will make your way to the southwest and turn left at The Golden Lion Inn, which is a great place for some post-walk food if you have the time. Continue along the road for a short distance to arrive back at the trailhead having completed the Stithians Reservoir Circular Walk.

    Trail Highlights

    Stithians Reservoir

    Situated 1.6 km west of the village of Stithians in Cornwall, the Stithians Reservoir is a man-made body of water that was created in 1967. Work on the dam was carried out between 1962 and the opening in 1967 and cost £1,125,000 to build. The reservoir is also a popular recreation area, offering a number of watersports like sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking, as well as other activities like fishing and camping.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can you kayak on Stithians Reservoir?

    Kayaking, as well as canoeing, paddleboarding, and windsurfing are permitted at Stithians Reservoir.

    When was Stithians Reservoir built?

    The Stithians Reservoir Dam began construction in 1962 and the dam was opened in 1967.

    Insider Hints for Stithians Reservoir Circular Walk

    • Wear sturdy, water-resistant walking boots for this adventure.
    • Bug spray will come in handy, as mosquitoes and midges can be encountered along the trail.
    • Sections of the trail follow along roadways, so make sure to exercise caution if travelling with children or dogs.

    Getting to the Stithians Reservoir Circular Walk Trailhead

    The trailhead for the Stithians Reservoir Circular Walk can be found at the car park for the Stithians Lake Watersports Centre.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      April-October

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Yes

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Circuit

    Stithians Reservoir Circular Walk Elevation Graph

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    Stithians Reservoir Circular Walk Reviews

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