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The start (S/E) W3W>>>, for other start points see Notes
(S/E) At the footbridge of the Red River, head in an easterly direction, and through the earth mound (it will become apparent).Continue along the track along the fenced-off bird lake (A), to the gate, turn south, and handrail the fence to the end.
In the next section, there are multiple well-used paths heading in a westerly direction. Keep to the higher side, and the route is along the top of the dune. Use the app to assist. The life guard hut and seasonal public toilets will become visible.
(1) Head southwest along the coast path.
At the end of the car park (notice the footpath running alongside the cliff, a return path from (5)), head southeast up through the dunes; the route will, at points, be parallel to the road. The path merges with the road near a road junction. There are two parking areas; go to the small parking area, which backs onto the dunes, and signage about the dunes.
(2)The route now leads through the dunes with many paths leading in various directions; stick with the app directions. Heading in a southwest direction, the route will weave around many mounds. On closer examination, it can be seen that the mound is hollow, (B) explains. The winding route will lead to a more substantial track.
See 'Worth a Visit, Along the route (B), and image of Upton Towans
(3) Turn right and northwest, following the track around a sweeping left bend, there is remains of a building on the left. Continue on the track, and as the landscape opens up on the right, a grassy area. See southwest another track, head west. Turning right on the new track, head north to the ruined building, see the building's exterior walls (B).
(4) Continue north, then right around a bend before the track divides, keep left and down the slope. Note the large slate marker stone for the South West Coast Path, and the adit grating on the left.
(5) On top of the dune, before dropping down to the beach. Looking up the coast north, see the state of the tide.
Is it clear of the Strap Rocks?
If there is clearance, continue with the route. The intent is not to race the tide. Keep a watch on the tide.
If the tide is mis-timed, return to (5) and use the Alternative route.
Other than large swell and spring tides, the incoming tide is gradual and gives plenty of time to complete this section. It is common to walk the whole beach, 3 miles, without concern for the tide.
Alternative route: There is a cliff-top route which can be followed north back to the Gwithian car park and (1).
Continue on the beach, heading northeast, reaching Peter's Point, where the dunes turn to rock and cliffs.
(6) Continue along the beach, along the cliffs.
There will be many interesting aspects to explore, including the rock formations, adits, and caves. Look out for a rusted metal anchorage on the rocks on the beach, and further along near the top of the cliff. An old miner's truck and rail track are being unearthed after many years of being buried. All remnants of (C).
Approaching Strap Rocks, there is a route between the rocky outcrop and the mainland, which was once the cart track during the sand mining.
(7) The route goes up the beach to where there appears to be a gap; a mobile beach cafe is usually above the high water mark. The Red River originally flowed through this gap, but was canalised during the sand mining years.
Follow the route around to (S/E).
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