Section 1 of the Lizard Coast Path runs 14 miles from Penzance to Porthleven and is graded 3.5 miles easy, 4 miles moderate and 6.5 miles strenuous. It begins gently along Mounts Bay with views of St Michael’s Mount, which you can visit via cobbled causeway or ferry. Beyond Marazion, the path becomes more rugged, revealing coves, cliffs, and legends of smugglers at Prussia Cove and Piskies Cove. Pass long stretches of beach at Praa Sands, then tackle tougher terrain through old mine workings at Rinsey Head and Wheal Prosper. Stunning coastal views and dramatic clifftop ruins guide you into the picturesque harbour of Porthleven—an atmospheric end to a varied and rewarding first day on the trail.