Best lakes around St. Minver Highlands are found in a region defined by its coastal proximity to the Atlantic and the Camel Estuary. This area of North Cornwall also borders Bodmin Moor, presenting a diverse natural landscape. While large natural lakes are not immediately within St. Minver Highlands, the wider North Cornwall and Bodmin Moor region offers several notable bodies of water. These locations provide varied experiences for outdoor activities and exploration.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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Anyone interested in learning more about the CAMEL TRAIL (whether as a hiker or cyclist) can visit the following official website: =>> https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/environment/countryside/cycle-routes-and-trails/the-camel-trail/
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Nice run, sometimes narrow paths for a trail run but beautiful route!
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Beautiful hike well worth the effort and experience. It’s called the roller coaster for a reason 😁
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Very nice cycle path along the River Camel
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The origins of Port Isaac are likely Celtic and the development of the town can be roughly divided into three phases. Through the Middle Ages and up to the coming of the railways, Port Isaac was a thriving port serving the area inland. During the Tudor period the harbour was dredged, a good illustration of its importance. Once goods from locations further inland were better served by the North Cornwall Railway, the economy of the port relied on pilchard fishing, probably a centuries-old industry. However the pilchard shoals began to decline, and after World War I tourism became the mainstay of the economy.
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A certain sadness surrounds Port Quin. In the 19th century all the men from the small fishing port were lost at sea. The women and children who lived in the village abandoned their homes presumably due to having the the culture of the time meaning they were relient on the men's incomes. Port Quin is sometimes known as 'the village that died'.
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Made famous by the popular TV series, Doc Martin, Port Isaac is quaint fishing village in a sheltered part of Cornwall's rugged coast. It is also home to the Sea Shanty group 'Fisherman's Friends' and the movie about the singers was filmed here too.
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While St. Minver Highlands itself is known for coastal coves and tidal pools, the wider North Cornwall and Bodmin Moor region offers diverse water features. You can find large inland reservoirs like Colliford Lake and Siblyback Lake, which are excellent for nature and activities. Additionally, coastal areas feature unique spots like Treyarnon Tidal Pool, which appears at low tide.
Yes, Cornish Tipi Holidays Campsite & Lake is a unique hidden gem. It's a lake in a disused quarry where visitors can swim, fish, or use rowing boats and canoes. Siblyback Lake on Bodmin Moor is also considered a hidden gem, offering a striking natural backdrop and a 5km circular walk.
Siblyback Lake is excellent for families, offering a 5km circular walk, children's facilities, and a café. The Tamar Lakes (Upper and Lower) also provide numerous level footpaths and opportunities for watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding, making them great for families. Cornish Tipi Holidays Campsite & Lake is also very family-friendly, allowing swimming and boating.
For watersports, the Tamar Lakes (Upper and Lower) are a great choice, offering kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Roadford Lake, though technically in Devon, is also easily accessible and provides a wide range of watersports including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and sailing. At Cornish Tipi Holidays Campsite & Lake, you can swim, fish, or borrow rowing boats and canoes.
Absolutely. Siblyback Lake features a scenic 5km circular walk. Colliford Lake offers tranquil lakeside walks amidst the rugged Bodmin Moor countryside. The Tamar Lakes provide numerous level footpaths and off-piste trails, including walks along the dam and through woodlands. For more extensive walking and running routes in the wider area, you can explore guides like Running Trails around St. Minver Highlands.
Colliford Lake is recognized as a nature reserve important for birdlife, offering excellent birdwatching opportunities. At the Upper Tamar Lake's wildlife zone, you can frequently spot herons, kingfishers, and egrets. These lakes provide habitats for various bird species and other local wildlife.
Yes, Siblyback Lake has a café serving artisan coffee and homemade food. Cornish Tipi Holidays Campsite & Lake features 'the Gastropod', a lovely café for a pitstop. Many of the larger lakes also offer visitor facilities.
Colliford Lake, as Cornwall's largest inland water, provides an ideal setting for those seeking peace and serenity amidst nature, with expansive views of Bodmin Moor. Port Quin Cove, while a coastal feature, is known as a serene and unspoiled spot hidden in a rocky cove, offering a tranquil experience.
Colliford Lake is a brown trout fishery, offering opportunities for traditional fly fishing for wild and stocked trout. Cornish Tipi Holidays Campsite & Lake also allows fishing for campers.
Beyond lake-specific activities, the region around St. Minver Highlands offers a variety of outdoor pursuits. You can find excellent routes for gravel biking, running, and mountain biking, with trails like the Camel Trail being popular for cycling.
Visitors particularly enjoy the diverse natural beauty, from the rugged landscapes of Bodmin Moor surrounding Colliford Lake to the tranquil coves like Port Quin Cove. The variety of activities, from peaceful walks and birdwatching to active watersports, also receives high praise. The region's water features have garnered over 400 upvotes and more than 150 photos shared by the komoot community.


Still not found your perfect lake around St. Minver Highlands? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.