Cornwall, England — 20 km — 1–2 days
St Michael’s Way
A short, spectacular crossing of west Cornwall, ending at the island fortress of St Michael’s Mount rising from the sea.
St Michael’s Way follows a route used by Celtic saints and medieval pilgrims for over a thousand years. Rather than brave the dangerous seas around Land’s End, travellers crossed the Cornish peninsula overland from the north coast at Lelant to the south coast at Marazion — and on to the extraordinary island castle of St Michael’s Mount.
At just 20 kilometres, this is A Pilgrim’s Tour’s most accessible route — perfect as an introduction to pilgrimage walking, a weekend escape, or a meaningful short break. The finale is unforgettable: crossing the tidal cobblestone causeway to St Michael’s Mount as the tide retreats. Walking is straightforward, but Cornwall’s hills and coastal paths require a reasonable level of fitness. The route is waymarked throughout with the distinctive St Michael’s scallop shell.
The Route
Stage by Stage
Lelant to Ludgvan
Start at Lelant church — a place of pilgrimage since the 5th century — and cross Hayle Estuary. Climb over Trencrom Hill with its Iron Age hillfort and sweeping views from both coasts, then descend through farmland to the village of Ludgvan.
Ludgvan to St Michael’s Mount
Through the ancient village of Marazion — the oldest chartered town in Britain — to the shore of Mount’s Bay. Cross the tidal cobblestone causeway to St Michael’s Mount when the tide is low, arriving at the castle that has welcomed pilgrims for a thousand years.
Your Package
What's Included
Walk at your own pace with all logistics arranged. Perfect for a long weekend.
- Accommodation in Penzance or Marazion (private rooms)
- Luggage transfer if staying overnight
- Detailed route notes with OS maps
- Tide tables for the St Michael’s Mount causeway
- 24/7 local support line throughout
- Cornish food and restaurant guide
- Train connections guide (Lelant Saltings station)
Everything in self-guided, plus a Cornish guide bringing this ancient crossing to life.
- Everything included in self-guided
- Expert Cornish guide for the full crossing
- Welcome dinner in Penzance on arrival evening
- Guided tour of St Michael’s Mount castle and gardens
- Stories of Celtic saints and Cornish pilgrimage history
- Farewell cream tea on the island
- Weekend departures throughout the season
Cross Cornwall to the island.
A long weekend, a meaningful walk, an unforgettable finish. Let us arrange every detail.