Chapel Point

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Cornwall

England

Chapel Point

Mevagissey - Preening shag Credit: Rob Farrow

Chapel Point is a stunning headland located on the southern coast of Cornwall, England. Situated near the popular coastal village of Mevagissey, this picturesque point offers breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline and the vast open sea.

The headland is characterized by rugged cliffs and dramatic rock formations, which have been shaped by centuries of erosion by the powerful Atlantic Ocean. These cliffs provide a natural barrier against the crashing waves, creating a sense of tranquility and isolation for visitors.

Chapel Point gets its name from the small chapel that once stood on its summit. Although the chapel itself no longer exists, its historical significance is still evident in the remnants of its foundation. These ruins add an element of intrigue and enchantment to the area, attracting both history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

Nature lovers will be delighted by the rich biodiversity found at Chapel Point. The headland is home to a variety of seabirds, including gulls, cormorants, and puffins. Additionally, the surrounding waters are teeming with marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.

Access to Chapel Point is relatively easy, with a well-maintained footpath leading visitors to the headland. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the sight of wildflowers and native plants that dot the landscape. The path also provides several vantage points where visitors can stop and appreciate the panoramic views of the coastline and the sparkling azure waters below.

Overall, Chapel Point is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking natural beauty, tranquility, and a glimpse into Cornwall's rich history. Whether it's exploring the rugged cliffs, observing the diverse wildlife, or simply admiring the breathtaking scenery, this coastal headland offers an unforgettable experience for all who venture to its shores.

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Chapel Point Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.2565/-4.7663346 or Grid Reference SX0243. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Mevagissey - Preening shag

I am reliably informed that this is a shag (Gulosus aristotelis) rather than a cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) as "the eye is separate from the bare skin at the base of the bill. Other useful signs for a shag are a thin bill, steep forehead, relatively longer tail and slimmer neck" (thanks to Hugh Link for this information) I think it is quite a young bird as it does not seem to have its full adult plumage, and apparently the fact that he has a white chin is indicative of this. It was busy preening itself on rocks just outside Mevagissey harbour.

Rob Farrow

Mevagissey, Victoria Pier

The two outer breakwaters (the North Pier and the Victoria Pier) were completed in 1888, providing Mevagissey with an outer harbour that protects the village and its fishing fleet from south-easterly storms.

David Dixon

Lighthouse on Victoria Pier, Mevagissey

Victoria Pier Head lighthouse was constructed in 1896. It is still active.

David Dixon

Mevagissey North Pier and Outer Harbour

David Dixon

Fishing Boats in Mevagissey Outer Harbour

Mevagissey is a village and fishing port. The village is situated five miles south of St Austell. It nestles in a small valley and faces east to Mevagissey Bay. The inner and outer harbours have a mixture of pleasure vessels and fishing boats, the remains of a once major industry. However, tourism has supplanted fishing as the dominant industry in recent years. Mevagissey village centre consists of narrow streets with many places to eat and shops aimed at the tourist trade. The outer areas are built on the steep slopes of the surrounding hillsides and are mostly residential.

David Dixon

Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) at Mevagissey Harbour

Black sea bird, about the size of a goose on the rocks at Mevagissey Harbour.

David Dixon

Cormorant at Mevagissey

Black sea bird, about the size of a goose on the rocks at Mevagissey Harbour.

David Dixon

Coastal pasture, Mevagissey

The coast path south of Portmellon approached Chapel Point.

Andrew Smith

Clifftop and farmland, St Goran

The coast path above Pabyer Point roughly midway between Gorran Haven and Portmellon.

Andrew Smith

Mevagissey coastline

Rocks and rugged coastline beyond the North Pier wall

Richard Croft

Portmellon - view across the cove

Looking across the cove at Portmellon where the sea laps the wall at high tide - as a consequence there is a nearby road-sign warning to "Beware of waves".

Rob Farrow

Portmellon - The Rising Sun

The Rising Sun public house is a C17th (according to them, but C18th according to EH) pub beside the sea in the coastal village of Portmellon just to the south of Mevagissey. Their own website here: Link

It is EH Grade II listed: Link

Rob Farrow

Gwineas or Gwinges (or Gull Rock) from Gorran Haven

Looking out past the northern end of the breakwater seen in SX0141 : Gorran Haven - Beach, breakwater and headland to the little clump of rocks out at sea known officially as either Gwineas or Gwinges - but by the locals as "Gull Rock". They, and the nearby submerged rock of The Yaw, have been the cause of many shipwrecks. See Wikipedia article: Link

Rob Farrow