At Duloe you are lucky enough to be just a short distance from the beautiful fishing town of Looe and the south Cornish coast.
The route from Duloe is a little hilly – so it's perhaps not the best for cycling. But if you fancy making a day out of it, why not walk? It'll take you a good hour to an hour and a half but it will certainly work up an appetite. The route travels along the West Looe Valley, through Kilminorth Woods and along the riverside path. So there is a range of terrain to navigate. It's a walk of just over 5 miles, so you can return via the 573 bus service (find the timetable at Duloe reception).
The town is spread either side of the River Looe where the estuary flows into the sea. The two sides are connected by a large bridge and if you take the walking route you'll come in at West Looe, the more residential of the two, so will need to cross to the more bustling East Looe. Here is where you'll find shops, restaurants and cafés as well as the traditional fishing port, a beach and the railway station slightly further inland.
Once in the centre, explore the town and have a wander around the harbour. Looe beach is set behind the pier in a sheltered little bay. This is a good, sandy, family-friendly beach which slopes gently into the sea at low tide.
Where to eat?
There's a number of little eateries to choose from. Duloe manager Michelle put forward three of the ones that stand out for her.
If you're in the mood for a pick-me-up coffee after your walk try Café Fleur, which is right on the harbour front just down from the bridge. There's great tea and coffee and a selection of homemade treats too.
You can't be in a fishing town without trying a tasty plate of the local fish and chips. Catch on East Quay does a great portion of the famous British dish. This lovely little place is situated right on the waterfront and is a slightly different take on the traditional fish and chip takeaway: everything is locally sourced, sustainably purchased and cooked to order. If fish isn't your thing, the Catch is also a grill, so don't worry, and even does gluten free options! It was a proud winner of the 2016 National Fish and Chip Awards.
If you're more of a 'grab-and-go' kind of person, and want to try one of the Cornish classics, Sarah's Pasty shop is a family run business that sells a range of homemade delights with various dietary requirements in mind. Set in a converted fisherman's cottage, this quaint little shop is located just off the main high street (Fore Street) on Buller Street.
