Millook Haven and Zig Zag Cliffs - Image 1
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Millook Haven and Zig Zag Cliffs

4.8
·18 reviews·, United Kingdom

A wild, secluded cove with dramatic rock formations and challenging surf, perfect for escaping the crowds.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Dry, clear days

Easier road access

CrowdLow
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Millook Haven and Zig Zag Cliffs - Image 1

Millook Haven and Zig Zag Cliffs

Best Time

Dry, clear days

Easier road access

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A wild, secluded cove with dramatic rock formations and challenging surf, perfect for escaping the crowds.

4.8
(18 reviews)

"Beautiful bay with wonderful geology, but the road there is scary with no parking or facilities."

Vertical photo
TIP

Drive with Caution ⚠️

The road is steep and narrow; drive slowly and be prepared for oncoming vehicles.

Pack Everything You Need 🎒

No facilities here! Bring water, snacks, and take all your trash with you.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Geological Wonders

Geological Wonders

Zig Zag Cliffs

Witness the incredible folding in the rocks, a testament to the area's unique geology. A photographer's dream.

Reddit
Secluded Pebble Beach

Secluded Pebble Beach

Millook Haven

A beautiful, often uncrowded pebble beach perfect for peaceful walks and exploring.

Reddit
Challenging Surf Breaks

Challenging Surf Breaks

Millook Haven

For experienced surfers, Millook Haven offers amazing waves away from the usual crowds.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Zig Zag Road

The road to Millook Haven is notoriously steep and narrow, often described as a 'nightmare' by visitors. Be prepared for a challenging drive, especially if you encounter oncoming traffic. A vehicle in good condition with strong brakes is essential. Reddit

Prepare for No Facilities

Millook Haven is a wild, natural spot with no parking, toilets, or shops. Pack everything you need, including water and snacks, and be ready to take all your rubbish with you. Reddit

Best Times

When
Dry, clear days
Why
Easier road access
Crowd
Low
When
Off-peak hours
Why
Avoid road traffic
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Drive with Caution ⚠️

The road is steep and narrow; drive slowly and be prepared for oncoming vehicles. Reddit

Pack Everything You Need 🎒

No facilities here! Bring water, snacks, and take all your trash with you. Reddit

Great for Photography 📸

The unique rock formations and secluded beach are stunning for photos. Reddit

Experienced Surfers Only 🏄

Waves can be powerful; best suited for those with advanced surfing skills. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Drive with Caution ⚠️

The road is steep and narrow; drive slowly and be prepared for oncoming vehicles. Reddit

Pack Everything You Need 🎒

No facilities here! Bring water, snacks, and take all your trash with you. Reddit

Great for Photography 📸

The unique rock formations and secluded beach are stunning for photos. Reddit

Experienced Surfers Only 🏄

Waves can be powerful; best suited for those with advanced surfing skills. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(18 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Millook Haven is praised for its stunning geological formations and secluded pebble beach, offering a peaceful escape and great surfing for experienced individuals. However, the extremely steep and narrow access road, coupled with a complete lack of facilities, presents significant challenges for visitors. Reddit+1

"Great beach for walking and getting away from the crowds and has amazing surfing for the experienced."

Jo Adams

"Beautiful bay with wonderful geology. Amazing folding in the rocks. However, the road there is scary, there is no parking and no facilities of any kind, so make it a quick visit or plan carefully!"

Anne Bunn

"A beautiful bay but with absolutely no parking. The road to the haven from either direction is a nightmare. Even if you don't meet another vehicle you need nerves of steel to get down to sea level. If you DO meet another vehicle then you'd best have a vehicle in tip top shape with good brakes and be a very good driver! Inthe rain or icy conditions simply forget it!"

Alan Powell

What People Like

Beautiful geology
Secluded beach
Great surfing

What People Dislike

Difficult access road
No facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Access is via a very steep and narrow road. Drivers need to be cautious, especially if meeting other vehicles. It's recommended to visit on dry days and be prepared for a challenging descent. Reddit

The road is described as a 'nightmare' and requires nerves of steel. It's best suited for drivers with good vehicles and confidence on challenging terrain. Avoid in wet or icy conditions. Reddit

No, there is no designated parking at Millook Haven. Visitors often have to find informal spots or be prepared for a difficult drive down to the beach area. Reddit

While some reviews mention 'good parking',Reddit others strongly advise a vehicle in tip-top shape with good brakes due to the steepness. It's best to be cautious and assess your vehicle's capabilities. Reddit

Millook Haven is located near Crackington Haven and Bude in Cornwall, England. The drive from these areas will involve navigating the challenging access road. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Millook Haven and the Zig Zag Cliffs are natural attractions and do not require tickets for entry. Access is free. Reddit

As a natural beach and coastal area, Millook Haven is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety, especially given the road conditions. Reddit

Due to the extremely steep and narrow access road and the pebble beach, Millook Haven is not easily accessible for visitors with mobility issues. Reddit

There are no facilities for camping at Millook Haven. It's a natural spot best visited for day trips. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, most natural beaches in Cornwall are dog-friendly. However, always check local signage and be mindful of other visitors and wildlife. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Enjoy peaceful walks along the pebble beach, admire the unique geological formations of the Zig Zag Cliffs, and for experienced surfers, catch some waves. It's a great spot for photography and escaping crowds. Reddit

The Zig Zag Cliffs are renowned for their stunning geological folds, showcasing the earth's natural artistry. They offer a dramatic backdrop for the cove. Reddit

Swimming is possible, but conditions can vary. The beach is pebbly, and the surf can be strong, making it more suitable for experienced swimmers or surfers. Reddit

Millook Haven features a picturesque pebble beach, offering a different experience from sandy shores. It's ideal for exploring and enjoying the rugged coastline. Reddit

Millook Haven is often described as a hidden gem away from the crowds, making it a great escape for those seeking tranquility. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

No, there are absolutely no facilities at Millook Haven, including cafes or restaurants. You must bring all your own food and drinks. Reddit

The nearest options for food and drink will be in nearby villages like Crackington Haven or the town of Bude, which offer various pubs and cafes. Reddit

Yes, a picnic is a great idea! Just remember to pack everything in and take all your rubbish away with you to keep the area pristine. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The dramatic Zig Zag Cliffs with their folded rock formations are a prime subject. The secluded pebble beach and coastal views also offer fantastic photographic potential. Reddit

Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, can offer beautiful light for capturing the dramatic landscapes. Midday can be harsh, but the unique rock textures are always interesting. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the cliffs and coastline. A polarizing filter can help enhance the colors of the sea and rocks. Reddit

There are no specific restrictions mentioned for general photography at Millook Haven. However, always be respectful of the natural environment. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Millook Haven offers a unique natural adventure, but the challenging access road is a significant consideration for families. The steep, narrow lane requires confident driving, and the lack of facilities means you'll need to bring all your own provisions, including changing supplies and snacks. Reddit The pebble beach can be less ideal for very young children to play on compared to sand. However, for families who enjoy exploring rugged coastlines and are prepared for the drive, it can be a rewarding experience to discover a less-visited spot. Reddit

🚗 Drivers & Car Enthusiasts

The drive to Millook Haven is a defining feature. If you have a capable vehicle and enjoy testing your driving skills on challenging rural roads, the steep, winding lane will be an adventure. Reddit However, if you're driving a larger vehicle, are new to narrow country lanes, or are concerned about vehicle wear and tear, you might find the journey stressful. Reddit Be prepared for potential encounters with oncoming traffic and ensure your brakes are in top condition. Reddit

🏄 Surfers

Millook Haven is a gem for experienced surfers seeking quality waves away from the crowds. Reddit The breaks here can be powerful and are best suited for those with advanced skills. If you're looking for a challenging surf session in a more remote setting, Millook Haven is worth the effort to reach. Reddit Remember to check conditions and be aware of the rocky seabed. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Infamous Zig Zag Road

The access road to Millook Haven is a significant talking point for visitors. Described as a 'nightmare' and requiring 'nerves of steel,' it's a steep, narrow lane that demands careful driving. Reddit Many reviews highlight the challenge of meeting oncoming traffic, emphasizing the need for a vehicle in excellent condition with reliable brakes. Reddit It's strongly advised to tackle this road only in dry, clear weather conditions and to proceed with extreme caution. If you're not a confident driver on challenging rural roads, you might consider alternative, more accessible coastal spots. Reddit

Despite the driving challenge, some visitors have noted 'good parking',Reddit suggesting that perhaps the experience can vary. However, the consensus leans towards caution. The road's difficulty is a key factor in planning your visit, and it's a primary reason why Millook Haven remains relatively uncrowded. Reddit

Embracing the Wild Nature

Millook Haven is celebrated for its raw, natural beauty and its status as a place 'away from the crowds and everything.' Reddit This means visitors should come prepared for a truly wild experience. There are no facilities whatsoever – no toilets, no shops, and crucially, no parking directly at the beach. Reddit This lack of amenities contributes to its secluded charm but requires visitors to be self-sufficient. Packing essentials like water, snacks, and any necessary supplies is a must. Reddit

The beach itself is a lovely pebble shore, perfect for leisurely walks and appreciating the unique geology of the Zig Zag Cliffs. Reddit These cliffs are a highlight, showcasing impressive rock folds that are a marvel for geology enthusiasts and photographers alike. Reddit For experienced surfers, the waves at Millook Haven can be excellent, offering a challenging break away from busier surf spots. Reddit

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