Monk's Hill & Fort George

Level       : Moderate
Duration  : 40 min cycling / 1 hr walking
Elevation: 190 meters

Less than 3 kilometers away from Falmouth harbour, Monk's Hill is one of the least visited historical sights and hilltop in the area. It is in my view far more evocative and impressive than Shirley Heights.
Fort George was an important and large defense post built in the late 17th century, overlooking Falmouth. The perimeter of the massive  fortifications exceeds a kilometer; the whole fort is now overrun by nature, and gives out an eerie feeling of 'lost jungle city'. The walls are built of distinctive green stone, and a large once paved track leads to the viewpoint at the summit, offering what is probably the best views of Falmouth Bay and Nelson's Dockyard. There is also an uninterrupted view of the northern and eastern plain, that one is left to enjoy in perfect tranquility... hardly anyone ever comes here.
The track is very steep at times. My pet game is to try to cycle up without putting a foot down (never made it to the top with a 0 score!)
The acacia thorns are rife here, specially on the last stretch above the the ridge cross road, so beware when walking or cycling. 

The road up the hill starts at Cobbs Cross  junction, and follows the eastern side of the primary school fence. At the V junction take a left, and keep walking/cycling up..  The road will soon turn to dirt and deteriorate sharply after the last villa. Just keep going up the valley till you reach a crossroad on the ridge.  Take a left again here, and follow the deeply rutted trail with the odd remains of ancient stone paving. You will reach a hairpin bend in less than 10 minutes, after which you will go through the main gates of the fort.
A 5/10 minute walk further will bring you to the mobile phone antenna. Take the little path on the side and you will get to the top of the world!