England might not be known for plentiful sunny days, but Cornwall—the rugged peninsula on the country's southwestern tip—is actually home some of the best beaches in Europe. If you know where to look, that is.Sure, there may only be a short number of weeks in the year when UK weather is suitable for sunbathing and sharing a portion of fish and chips between sea dips, but the unpredictable British climes make our shorelines no less beautiful. And if you're planning an English beachside escape this summer, one UK beach boasts sands so white and sea so blue, it's often compared to Bali. In fact, it's often voted one of the best beaches in the world.Pedn Vounder Beach, Cornwall on a clear sunny June afternoon. GettyPedn Vounder—roughly translating to ‘end of the lane’ from Cornish—is a hidden beach located on the rugged Penwith Peninsula in Cornwall near Porthcurno. Famous for its turquoise water, white sand, and dramatic granite cliffs, it's easy to see why it's often compared to the pristine beaches of Indonesia or the Caribbean.How to get thereThe only downside is that Pedn Vounder isn't particularly easy to get to. It's approximately a six-hour drive From London—or, for a car-less route, you can take the train from London to Penzance. From Penzance, it's a 20-minute drive or bus ride to the nearby village of Treen.Because the beach is tidal, much of the sand disappears at high tide, so make sure to check the tide chart carefully to ensure you're visiting at low tide.The final descent to the beach is steep and involves scrambling down slippery rocks Visitors can park in the nearby village of Treen and hike down the coastal path After parking in the nearby village of Treen, follow the coastal path towards Porthcurno for about 15 to 20 minutes. The final descent to the beach is steep and involves scrambling down slippery rocks, especially after rain. So if you're planning to visit Pedn Vounder this summer, remember to wear suitable sneakers and pack light—a small backpack is advisable—so that your hands are free to help you climb.There are no shops, toilets, or parasols, so remember to pack a sun hat, water, and snacks. It's also worth noting that Pedn Vounder is well known as an unofficial naturist beach, so don't be surprised if some visitors are sunbathing nude. But once you've completed the tricky descent, you're rewarded with water so blue and sand so sugary-white that you can't quite believe you're in England.This story was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK.
This Cornwall Beach Looks More Like the Caribbean Than England
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