A map celebrating the natural beauty and history of Cornwall has been produced in time for Easter.

Cornwall Uncovered is a double-sided folded map showing what makes this a unique corner of the British Isles. A website has also been launched which contains further information and helpful links.

The map, which was officially launched at Trelissick House, has been illustrated by Simon Riordan at SR Studio and supported by Cornwall Council, Cornwall & the Isles of Scilly Local Nature Partnership, Cornwall Wildlife Trust and the National Trust.

It follows the production of the popular Discovery Maps which have been produced in Newquay, St Austell, Hayle, Camborne and Penzance.

Edwina Hannaford, Cornwall Council’s cabinet member for environment, heritage and planning said: “As a member of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Nature Partnership I can confirm that we wholeheartedly endorse this project. 

“The aim of the map is to help people to appreciate the unique natural environment, heritage and culture of Cornwall whilst encouraging them to reduce their carbon footprint by using public transport; support local businesses through buying local produce; minimise resource use through recycling; and, enjoy a healthy lifestyle through taking part in active pursuits such as walking and cycling.”

The Cornish language has been integrated into the map, alongside a historical timeline showing Cornwall's cultural origins and heritage. The map will also be used as a resource for schools, with each school receiving their own copies of the map to use in the classroom.

The map aims to present complex messages about the natural and historic environment and sustainability in a "simple, engaging and user friendly way".

As well as beautiful illustrations, there is useful information about tide times, beach safety, festivals and much more.

One side of the map explores and highlights Cornwall’s many natural wonders including the spectacular coastline, the river estuaries of the Fal, Fowey and Camel, the granite upland areas of Bodmin Moor, Helman Tor and West Penwith, and the South West Coast Path. There is also information about local flora and fauna and suggestions on how to enjoy the great Cornish outdoors by taking part in activities such as rock pooling and bird watching.

The opposite side focuses on the human face of Cornwall, with illustrations and information about Cornwall's rich heritage from Neolithic times to the present day.

Important landmarks and towns are shown with accompanying text giving a flavour of each community. 

Simon Riordan, illustrator of the map, said “Cornwall Uncovered is an accumulation of stories and facts gathered from working and living in Cornwall. It is a personal response to a region that has filled me with pride and joy and I hope that the illustrations and map will add to your experience of living in, or visiting Cornwall.”

The maps are available to purchase at £6.99 each from SR Studio (please go to the website to order your maps) and various outlets throughout Cornwall.

However the Council is giving away 100 free maps on a first come first serve basis. To enter the competition to win a free map please either an email with your name, contact details and a paragraph about what makes your part of Cornwall & the Isles of Scilly special and unique (in no more than 50 words) to cioslnp@cornwall.gov.uk or write to Veryan Jones, Environment Service, Cornwall Council, Western Group Centre, Radnor Road, Scorrier, Redruth, TR16 5EH.

For more information about Cornwall Uncovered please see: http://www.cornwalluncovered.net/.