Author: gloversure

10 Must Visit Natural Attractions in Cornwall

Want to explore more of Cornwall? Check out our favourite autumnal walks in Cornwall.

Hell’s Mouth, nr Godrevy

Stand atop craggy cliffs, gazing a dizzy 300 feet down to waves crashing against the rocks below. Just north of Godrevy lighthouse, Hell’s Mouth is a place of untamed beauty; where ships have foundered, cliffs have crumbled into the ocean, and fulmars dance on currents of air rising between rugged ledges. Close to the haunted Deadman’s Cove, this is a staggering location to clap eyes on Cornwall’s coastal panorama at its wildest.

St Nectan’s Glen, nr Boscastle

Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and Cornish piskies as you explore the magical Rocky Valley and St Nectan’s Glen. Park at Trevethy (between Tintagel and Boscastle) and walk via St Piran’s Church, following the River Trevillet through the leafy glen to a thundering 60ft waterfall. It’s believed that, as part of a ritual to turn them into knights, King Arthur’s squires passed through the rock arch and dropped into the plunge pool of St Nectan’s to be cleansed.

Bedruthan Steps, nr Mawgan Porth

Dubbed Britain’s equivalent of Australia’s Twelve Apostles, here a series of mussel-clad towers rise from golden sands. Many visitors simply stare at these rock giants from the cliff tops, but it’s worth waiting for low tide to descend the 140-something steps and experience the immensity of the scenery with your toes in the sand. After the calf-busting walk back up, you can reward yourself with a Cornish cream tea at Carnewas Tearooms.

Porth Island, Newquay

Protected from the Atlantic swell by the rugged promontory of Porth Island, Porth Beach is popular with families for swimming, SUP-ing, rock-pooling and picnics. But step over the footbridge onto Porth Island and you can explore a far more rugged domain that was once an Iron Age settlement. Peer down into the wishing well pool, soak up stunning views of Newquay’s coastline and follow the spit of land to the blowhole, where clouds of sea spray explode from the rocks at mid-tide.

Brown Willy, Bodmin Moor

A huge contrast to Cornwall’s coastal wonders, head to the wild territory of Bodmin Moor to climb the 420m to the top of Cornwall’s highest peak – Brown Willy. The rolling moorland is littered with prehistoric remains, and once you reach the summit you’ll be rewarded with far-reaching views of the countryside and coast.

Pedn-Vounder, Treen

If you can brave a knee-wobbling descent and don’t mind mingling with the naturists, at Pedn-Vounder you can take a dip in an iridescent-blue lagoon surrounded by white sands. A low-tide beach backed by towering cliffs, this breath-taking beauty is overlooked by the huge granite boulder of Logan Rock, and the sparkling water is some the cleanest, and clearest, in the UK.

The Rumps, nr Polzeath

If you want to escape the crowds and blow away the cobwebs, strike out along the coast path out of New Polzeath, and head for the twin-headed promontory of The Rumps. Far from the beach brigades, here you can discover the remains of an Iron Age fortress, capture far-reaching views of the coastline and lookout for puffins on The Mouls (the island that lies off the eastern headland). Just make sure you hold onto your hat on a windy day.

Nanjizal, nr Land’s End

About a mile from Land’s End and only accessible on foot, Nanjizal is a wild and secluded cove where the sea laps beneath the Song of the Sea rock arch. When winter swells rage it’s an awesome sight to behold and you’ll probably be in the company of more seals and sea birds than humans; while on calm summer days coast path walkers trickle by and are lured into the sea caves and the turquoise plunge pool beneath the arch.

Treyarnon Tidal Pool, Treyarnon

This natural pool carved into rocks hemming Treyarnon beach, is a picturesque place to take a dip without having to battle the surf. Paddle, rock jump, do a few laps, or simply explore the surrounding rock pools, before basking on the boulders like seals, to warm up before a picnic on the turf-topped cliffs.

Cape Cornwall, nr Pendeen

Avoid the camera-wielding crowds at Land’s End and head for nearby Cape Cornwall, where the Atlantic currents divide. Here you can climb to the landmark chimney atop a rocky peak, and enjoy views of Land’s End, Brison Rocks and the World Heritage mining coastline, with little more than sea birds for company.

Find a beach location to discover more wonders, and keep an eye on our special offers page for the latest deals and discounts.

Discover our bespoke holiday cottages in Hayle, a short drive from St Ives and Pendeen.

Visiting with a large family? Discover our large holiday homes perfect for big families or friend groups.

Book your Beach Retreats self-catering holiday.

Yoga on a Cornish beach

We invited Next Wave Yoga to be our latest guest blogger, to give you plenty of inspiration for a relaxing Beach Retreats stay…

Let’s set the scene:

It’s 8.30 am on a Monday morning with Next Wave Yoga. Instead of being near the end of your morning commute to work, or rushing the kids off to school, you are on a beach in Cornwall. Perhaps it is not just you, but the whole family is there with you. The beach is still quiet, there are only a few people walking their dogs. Instead of being sat on a train or in traffic you are sat on a yoga mat with sand between your toes and the sound of the sea and birds. Your yoga teacher asks you to close your eyes and for a few minutes just allow yourself to really listen to everything going on around you, to be ‘present’ and enjoy where you are in that moment.

Visiting Cornwall with an electric car? Check out our holiday lets with electric car (EV) charging points.

It’s hard not to enjoy where you are when you are sitting on a beach with the sun on your back and listening to the sound of the waves. For the next hour you are guided through a yoga class that has been created specifically for you, with careful guidance and assistance when necessary. This ensures you have plenty of time to come back to ‘that place’ of just being still and listening to the world before rolling up your mat and heading off for breakfast.

What a great way to start the day.

We are exceptionally blessed in Cornwall to be surrounded by beautiful coastline, hidden coves and tucked away woodlands that are open for us to use as our ‘yoga studio’. Instead of four walls, air conditioning, false lighting and the person next to your mat being less than an inch away from yours, we want you to be able to experience space, the ability to move freely and breathe deeply. If you have never stood and intentionally taken lung fulls of fresh sea air before, you are in for a treat.

Fancy staying in Watergate Bay? Check out our luxury holiday properties in Watergate Bay, Newquay.

The outdoors is part of a Cornish lifestyle and our environment is our greatest asset. We want to share it with you.

Over the years we have received an abundance of research into the effects of our modern and indoor lifestyle on our physical and mental health. Studies have shown how positive just a simple walk in the park or stroll across the beach can be and the longer you spend outside the more positive those impacts are. Just a 20 minute walk can improve short term memory, boost creativity, reduce stress and anxiety, allow for clearer thoughts, lower blood pressure and even reduce inflammation in the body.

Yoga also helps with all of these things – combining the two is pretty magical and the beauty of the practise is, it can be done anywhere you have space to roll out a mat. A lot of the yoga classes that we do are actually within holiday homes like Beach Retreats’ making use of the wide terraces, private gardens and beautiful views from open plan sitting rooms. This makes it easier for the whole family to join in.

We understand that your time away is precious so we bring the yoga studio to you.

It may be that you want to have just one class to end your stay or daily classes to really reap the full benefits, create your own vinyasa flow, experience yin, yoga nidra or even just master your Downward Dog – the choice is yours. You could even turn a day of your stay into a mini yoga retreat to include a morning and afternoon class, massage treatments, sound baths and even a cookery class with a nutritionist.

We want you to feel free to create what you need to help you truly, relax, recharge and ultimately go home feeling like you have a new found love for ‘self care’ and can take on the world. Maybe after one more Savasana…

For more information visit nextwaveyoga.co.uk or bespokeretreats.com.

A little more about Next Wave Yoga

Next Wave Yoga was created to make the benefits of yoga and massage accessible to all. Founded by Amy Williams, an experienced level 3 massage therapist and passionate yogi, we are a truly holistic approach to relaxation and healing based in Cornwall offering group yoga classes, private yoga classes, massage treatments, unique bespoke retreats and much more.

Next Wave specialises in tailoring experiences to the individual. That means anything from creating a plan for dealing with stress and anxiety through yoga or helping your aches and pains with deep tissue massage or getting all f the family together for some yoga fun on the beach.

It’s no secret that we think massage is a little bit magic. Helping to alleviate aches and pains, improve circulation, aid the lymphatic system, helps the body recover for sporting activities and injuries quicker and creates more space and mobility in the body. For the ultimate treat let us turn your beautiful holiday home into your own private spa for some time to truly relax and unwind.

Want to learn more about how to make the most of your travel? Read our blog on how to do slow travel.

Book your relaxing holiday with Beach Retreats.

7 Beachside Houses for Summer

The Meadow at Whitsand Bay looks out over the sea

Join us on the Cornish coast this summer…

Swap your shoes for sandals and make the most of summer with a last minute self-catering holiday by the sea. From large celebration houses to cosy clifftop cabins, Beach Retreats has a fantastic selection of seaside boltholes for all.

For family celebrations

Seamist, Watergate Bay

Bring all the generations together for a memorable family holiday to Watergate Bay, in north Cornwall. Join the beachgoers with a family surf lesson, kite flying, sandcastle building and more, on the beach just a 2-minute drive away. Instagram-worthy bars and restaurants nearby include Zacry’s, the bar on the sea wall – Watchful Mary and The Beach Hut (great for cocktails).

Seamist sleeps 16 guests and is the largest house in the Beach Retreats portfolio. Interior designed throughout the house has a striking contemporary design and a remarkable sense of light. The house provides guests with two living rooms, a cinema room, beautiful dining room, spacious garden and plenty of outside furniture for those all important sundowners.

Find out more about Seamist.

For rockpooling

Pendeen, Widemouth Bay

Stay in Widemouth Bay and you’ll be greeted to hundreds of rockpools with fascinating creatures just waiting to be discovered. For the more energetic nearby water sports include surfing, kayaking and coasteering with Outdoor Adventure.

Pendeen is one of six luxury eco houses positioned directly on Widemouth Bay beach with awe-inspiring sea views from its balcony. Bude and its array of shops, restaurants and beaches are just a short drive. We recommend a visit to The Deck and Life’s A Beach – two fabulous beachside cafes.

Find out more about Pendeen, Widemouth Bay.

For a romantic escape

Toms Cottage, Porthleven

Walk hand-in-hand along the harbour wall, leave footsteps in untouched golden sand and dine at one of Cornwall’s most popular eateries. Porthleven in west Cornwall is the perfect base for a romantic holiday with your loved one, exploring its secret coves, magnificent gardens and tiny fishing villages dotted along the coast.

Tom’s Cottage is just a two-minute walk from the historic harbour and its shops, cafes, pub, restaurants and beach, but if you would like to explore further afield then Penzance, Marazion, Hayle, Minack Theatre and Land’s End are just a short drive away.

Find out more about Toms Cottage, Porthleven.

For families

Skyline, Mawgan Porth

Mawgan Porth is a haven for families with its fascinating rockpools, shallow stream at low tide and sheltered cove backed by high rugged cliffs. The South West Coast Path runs either side so guests can adventure by foot to nearby Watergate Bay and Bedruthan Steps.

Skyline sleeps 14 guests in six bedrooms and combines contemporary coastal living with boutique interiors to create a space perfect for self-catering family holidays. Leave the kids to entertain themselves in the large garden or games room, while the adults enjoy some alfresco dining on the balcony as the sun sets over the horizon.

Skyline, Mawgan Porth

Find out more about Skyline, Mawgan Porth.

For unique interiors

Lobster Pot, Porthcothan

As seen in Coast Magazine Lobster Pot is a cosy cabin made for two, set off the beaten track, offering a unique and romantic hideaway for couples. It’s perfect position gives guests the choice of 11 beaches within easy reach, with its closest being Porthcothan just a mile away. Enjoy a day out at nearby Padstow and dig into some fish & chips on the harbour wall. Walk the coast path to Trevone or Constantine bay. Discover Cornwall on two wheels as your cycle the famous Camel Trail.

Lobster Pot sleeps two and was beautifully designed by owner and local artist Susie Rae. Susie has carefully up-cycled coastal materials creating a rustic and contemporary twist to her design. Guests can relax on the fairy light lit decking with a BBQ and glass of something bubbly before retiring to the bedroom with its sumptuous super king size bed and its 400 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets.

Find out more about Lobster Pot in Porthcothan.

For peace and quiet

The Meadow, Whitsand Bay

For an ‘away from it all’ feeling and to avoid the crowds, visit South East Cornwall, also known as Cornwall’s ‘forgotten corner’. Here you can stroll along 3 miles of golden sand, walk the coast path to Rame Head, discover nearby Looe, Cawsand and Kingsand or take on a family surf lesson with Adventure Bay Surf School.

At The Meadow you’ll wake up to the sound of the Atlantic Ocean as you watch the waves roll in from the comfort of your sofa or private decking. This cosy cabin sleeps four guests and is just 200 metres from Whitsand Bay. Nearby restaurants include The Vault and The View, with the Blue Plate Restaurant and Waves further afield in Downderry.

The Meadow at Whitsand Bay looks out over the sea

Find out more about The Meadow, Whitsand Bay.

For the explorers

Seaside House, Port Isaac

Walk in the footsteps of ITV’s Doc Martin and explore the famous fishing village of Port Isaac. Walk the coast path past the Doc’s house, dine at the UK’s number one eatery Restaurant Nathan Outlaw and sit at the harbour wall watching the boats glide in and out of the harbour.

Seaside House sleeps six guests and is just a five-minute walk to the harbour, shops, restaurants and cafes. The three tiered garden is perfect for families with its summer house, seating area for alfresco dining and sea view from the top. Guests will enjoy the brand new kitchen with its modern design and glass roof, luxurious interiors and spacious bedrooms. Dogs are welcome at Seaside House.

Find out more about Seaside House, Port Isaac.

See all Beach Retreats self-catering properties.

Cornwall’s most Instagrammable locations

We predict that these Cornish spots will be popping up on our feeds…

Last year it was Pedn Vounder and Kynance Cove that captured the Insta crowds and went viral on social media. So what are the most Instagrammable locations of Cornwall in 2019?

Interested in staying in our most luxurious holiday cottages? Check out our luxury coastal cottages.

Port Isaac

The home of Doc Martin is a picture-postcard Cornish village flaunting cobbled streets, cream tea cafés and sublime sea views. We’re so used to seeing it on our TV screens that we half expect the Doc to come dashing down the winding streets to the harbour, where fishing boats putter in to deliver fresh catch to Nathan Outlaw’s restaurants. With wild Cornish cliffs that yawn in each direction, it’s little wonder that the Doc chose to live here, and less wonder that we’re so fixated by his appearance on our TV screens – who knows if it’s Doc Martin or Port Isaac that’s the real star of the show.

Find a self-catering holiday in Port Isaac.

Bedruthan Steps

Dubbed Britain’s equivalent of Australia’s Twelve Apostles, us mere mortals are dwarfed by the towering rock stacks rising from the sands of this craggy cove north of Newquay. Stand atop the cliffs and you can watch the waves carving the granite turrets, said to be the stepping-stones of a legendary giant. Or wait for low tide and descend the cliff steps to pad along the white sands, peering down into the rock pools and up to the peaks of these barnacle-clad skyscrapers. Don’t be content with taking in the view from the coast path with the rest of the camera-wielding visitors, plug on along the coast path to Park Head, passing ancient burial mounds and the ruins of a cliff fort, while keeping an eye out for seals and seabirds.

Find a self-catering holiday near Bedruthan.

Wheal Coates

Climb the rusty-red backs of the cliffs from Chapel Porth beach, to reach this iconic engine house that casts a shadow over the wild Atlantic waves. As you explore the coast path you’re setting foot in some of Cornwall’s richest mining history, while below the pumping surf breaks are known as the legendary ‘Badlands’. While the waves aren’t the territory of beginners, when you descend the pristine cove of Chapel Porth, you’ll discover the perfect spot for rock-pooling as the tide ebbs, and make sure you stop for a famous hedgehog ice cream in the National Trust car park.

Explore further from Chapel Porth & take a look and book our self-catering properties at Porthtowan, or talk to a member of our team on 01637 861 005.

Find a self-catering holiday in St Agnes.

Tintagel

Perched atop a sea-lashed promontory and swathed in Arthurian legend, Tintagel Castle has been a crowd-puller ever since tourism came to Cornwall. With its magnificent ruins and immense bronze statue of King Arthur looking out to sea, we expect the fortress to be high on our social media scrolls when it re-opens this summer, following the construction of a new footbridge. Touted as the birthplace of King Arthur, it’s impossible not to get swept away by local myths as you listen to your echo in the eerie Merlin’s Cave and step foot in the remains of a majestic fortress and a prosperous Dark Age settlement.

Find a self-catering holiday near Tintagel.

Jubilee Pool, Penzance

Cornwall’s art-deco lido has graced the screens of our social media feeds ever since it was renovated after storm damage in 2014. One of the world’s most scenic lidos, its eye-catching design and turquoise waters are hemmed by Mounts Bay. Re-opening again this summer after the development of a geo-thermal project, an area of the pool will be heated to a steaming 35C later in the year – so it’ll no longer be the territory of just hardy cold-water swimmers. In fact, you don’t even have to take a dip to enjoy the lido, simply bask on the terrace or take a seat in the year-round café and soak up the views.

Find a self-catering holiday near Jubilee Pool.

Find out about Sennen, near to Penzance, in our blog all about the area.

Holywell Bay

Having scored a starring role in the BBC’s recent Poldark hit, the breath-taking beauty of Holywell Bay needs little introduction. As soon as you clap eyes on the giant sand dunes and the twin peaks of Gull rock, you can imagine Ross Poldark galloping along the shoreline, searching for Demelza wistfully picking sea pinks on the cliff tops. Despite is fame, Holywell still keeps the crowds at bay, and makes the perfect beach for hitting the surf, collecting shells and exploring the sea caves in search of the ‘holy well’. You can also follow the coast path to Kelsey Head to spot seals and seabirds.

Find a self-catering holiday in Holywell Bay.

Huer’s Hut, Newquay

In the 19th century the town ‘huer’ would stand in this little stone hut on Towan Headland, crying, “Heva, Heva”, to alert the fishermen when shoals of pilchards were spotted in Newquay Bay. Having been restored in recent years to ensure Newquay’s history and heritage is not forgotten, this little whitewashed hut is a great spot to step back in time, gawp at the panoramic coastal views and see if you can spot shoals of dolphins of mackerel coming into the bay.

Find a self-catering holiday near the Huer’s Hut.

 

Search all Beach Retreats self-catering holidays in Cornwall.

Family beach cafes in Cornwall

It’s not just ice cream and Cornish pasties on the menu between surf sessions and building sandcastles. These family-friendly beach cafés and restaurants serve up the likes of smoothies, superfoods, share platters and seafood beside the waves. 

Kota Kai, Porthleven

In view of the fishing boats bobbing in the harbour, and just footsteps from Porthleven’s sandy beach, at Kota Kai you can kickback for coffee and cocktails in the lounge, pop in for a leisurely brunch or sit down for a slap-up dinner. Chef Jude Kereama, star of the Great British Menu, is renowned for his signature Asian-fused dishes using the finest ingredients from land and sea. With an innovative children’s’ menu and a family room where kids can hangout playing table football and other games, at Kota Kai he’s created a relaxed family environment where you can enjoy some of the best food in Cornwall.

Find out more about Kota Kai, Porthleven.

Life’s a beach, Summerleaze Beach, Bude

Beach café by day and sophisticated seafood restaurant by night, Life’s Beach – or L.A.B. – has become somewhat of a local foodie star over the last two decades. You can’t sit much closer to the shoreline at Summerleaze; in fact, at high tide you can watch the surfers glide past as you enjoy sundowners and seafood. Whether you pick a classic fish dish, Cuban sandwich or Detroit dog from the menu, rest assured you’ll be tucking into the freshest ingredients from local suppliers, while soaking up gob-smacking sea views. Here, life really is a beach.

Find out more about Life’s a beach, Bude.

 

Porthgwidden Beach Cafe, The Island, St Ives

Little sister to this seaside town’s famous Porthminster Café, the Porthgwidden is a more relaxed and intimate affair – but with the same delicious cuisine and stunning beachfront location. Sit on a beachside bench with an Italian coffee and cake while the kids build sandcastles, or head to the upper deck and take a seat inside for some of the Med- and Asian-style seafood and a crisp glass of Sauvignon. Whichever you choose, enjoy a side order of stunning views across St Ives Bay to Godrevy lighthouse.

Find out more about Porthgwidden Beach Cafe, Bude,

 

Catch, Mawgan Porth

There’s nothing like padding straight off the beach and sinking into a comfy surfside sofa or stylish seaside restaurant to refuel and relax. At Catch you can drop your surfboard by the door and bask on the terrace with a coffee or cold beer, or grab a table for a seafood feast. From classic British breakfasts and simple sandwiches, to post-surf feasts and seafood specialities, this beach-house bar and grill is a family favourite from sun-up to sundown.

Find out more about Catch, Mawgan Porth.

 

Poldhu Beach Cafe, Poldhu Cove

Bang on the family Mecca of Poldhu Cove, this buzzing little beach café serves breakfast baps, finger-licking lunches and Poldhutastic hot chocolates 363 days of the year. Whether you’ve been riding the waves with the surf school next door, hunting for treasure on nearby Dollar Cove or creating sand sculptures on the beach, it’s the perfect pit stop for rumbling tums. Every Friday in summer enjoy stone-baked pizzas served with Cornish cider or a glass of bubbly, while listening to live music on the beachside deck.

Find out more about Poldhu Beach Cafe, Poldhu.

Find your Beach Retreats self-catering holiday.

5 Places to Feast in South East Cornwall

Taste the saltwater lifestyle at one of these foodie hot spots…

Cornwall’s hidden corner is a place of legend, beauty and contrast with a vast majority of fantastic eateries waiting to be explored. From local village fish and chip shops to beachside cafes with seafood galore. Here are our top 6 spots to try when holidaying in South East Cornwall.

Check out our other locations and other retreats across South Cornwall.

Fancy staying in a holiday retreat with a swimming pool? Check out our cottages with a swimming pool for a relaxing getaway.

The Bay, Cawsand

Set in the historic Smugglers Bay of Cawsand, in a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you will find this fine dining and seaside charmed bar and restaurant – here to welcome you. With a view from every table and delicious cuisine made with perfection, your taste buds and your sight are sure to be delighted! Brand new for 2019, The Bay is perfectly positioned on Cawsand beach, next door to two of our fabulous beachside apartments 3 The Bay and The Penthouse 4 The Bay.

View our self-catering properties nearby.

Find out more about The Bay, Cawsand.

Blue Plate Restaurant, Downderry

Using the best of local ingredients and produce all sourced within 25 miles, Blue Plate Restaurant is our go to hang out when holidaying at Far Horizon in Downderry. The Specials Board changes daily from local lobster, crab and Fowey River mussels, to our local meats & game reared on Cornish Pastures.

What to eat: Treat yourself to the heavenly seafood platter.

View our self-catering cottages near Downderry.

Find out more about Blue Plate Restaurant in Downderry.

The View, Whitsand Bay

With a name like The View, you can tell it is going to be something spectacular. Perched high on the cliffs at Whitsand Bay on the stunning Rame Peninsular in South East Cornwall, The View is a modern and vibrant family restaurant. It`s simple style allows full appreciation of the breathtaking Rame head, The Eddystone lighthouse and views far west along the Cornish coastline to Goonhilly on The Lizard.

What to eat: Take advantage of their lunch special £15.50 two courses / £19.25 three courses. We lover the seared scallops, chorizo & parsley cassoulet.

View all our self-catering cottages near Whitsand Bay.

Find out more about The View, Whitsand Bay.

Halfway House Restaurant, Kingsand

Perfectly located in Kingsand and a 5 minute walk from our gorgeous apartments in Cawsand, the Halfway House offers plenty of choice in delicious food and local ales over lunch and dinner. Enjoy a Sunday roast with sirloin beef or leg of lamb and for light bites choose from classic pub favourites like chilli beef nachos, steak and ale pie and Cornish beer buttered fish & hand cut chips.

What to eat: Known for their crab and mayo sandwich, this is a must try when staying in Cawsand and Kingsand.

View all our self-catering cottages near Kingsand.

Find out more about the Half Way House in Kingsand.

Waves Bar, Seaton

Just a stone’s throw from our Far Horizon beach house perched high on the cliffs, Waves Bar is a great spot opposite Seaton beach, between Looe and Whitsand Bay. Whatever tickles your taste buds, Waves Bar is sure to have something on the menu for you and your family. From Sunday Roasts and Cornish cream teas to lamb shank and a fantastic choice for vegetarians.

What to eat: We visited during lunch hour and tried the chicken breast wrapped in bacon and smothered with BBQ sauce and cheddar cheese, served with triple cooked chips and green salad.

View our self-catering cottages near Seaton.

Find out more about Waves Bar in Seaton.

The Vaults Restaurant and Bar, Whitsand Bay

Located in Whitsand Bay Fort with a vaulted chamber smothered in history, it’s no surprise this award-winning restaurant is a favourite with locals and visitors alike. The menu changes seasonally and all food is locally sourced. A recent customer wrote:

“A warm welcome. Fantastic friendly staff, great location, and I kid you not, I had some of the best food I’ve ever eaten in this restaurant.”

What to eat: Sunday carvery with a great choice of meats and complimentary dishes every Sunday.

View our self-catering cottages near Whitsand Bay.

Explore more foodie escapes and discover our favourite surf beach cafes in Cornwall.

Book your foodie break in South East Cornwall.

Discover South East Cornwall

Once referred to as Cornwall’s forgotten corner, South East Cornwall is a place steeped in beguiling beauty and legends of smugglers…

Far removed from the wild, Atlantic-lashed beaches of the surfy North Coast, here beach life beats to the pace of calmer seas. And whether you go rock pooling on Downderry, fly a kite on Rame Head or hop aboard a boat cruise to Plymouth, you’ll discover that any trip here is truly unforgettable.

Visiting with a large group? Discover our large holiday homes perfect for big families or friend groups.

Here are six things we love doing in South East Cornwall:

Walk from Cawsand to Whitsand Bay

Step straight out of our waterfront Beach Retreat onto Cawsand Beach, dip your toes in the sea, and then strike out along the South West Coast Path. It’s an easy three miles through magical woodland to Penlee Point and onto the ancient chapel on Rame Head, where you’ll often encounter wild ponies. From here soak up coastal views as far as the Lizard Peninsula, some 50 miles away, and then push on another couple of miles around the headland to the golden stretch of Whitsand Bay.

Walk the South West Coast Path.

Hop aboard the Looe Valley Rail Ale Trail

Take a seat aboard one of Devon and Cornwall’s Great Scenic Railways, which hugs the river as it wends through a wooded valley from the market town of Liskeard to the seaside town of Looe. Make the most of the journey – and the scenery – by stopping off to sample some of the region’s finest ales in a series of country inns. If you collect stamps from all nine watering holes on the route, you can claim a free Rail Ale Trail t-shirt.

Explore Cornwall by train.

Catch the Ferry from Cawsand to Plymouth

Stay in our stylish Beach Retreat on Cawsand Bay and it’s easy to mix barefoot beach life with the buzz of city living. Step out of your stylish abode onto a quaint smuggler’s cove, from where you can hop on the foot-passenger ferry to Plymouth’s lively waterfont Barbican. Once you’ve had your fill of shopping, sightseeing and dining in this maritime hub, hop back aboard The Western Maid and castaway to the sandy shores of Cawsand.

Enjoy a cruise from Cawsand.

Take a boat cruise from Looe

Walk the banjo pier, go crabbing off the harbour wall or hop on a boat trip from the harbour – you’re spoilt for choice for what to do in the seaside town of Looe. Veritable nature enthusiasts shouldn’t miss out on a trip to Looe Island Nature Reserve with Cornwall Wildlife Trust (Easter–October), during which you’ll learn about the unique wildlife habitats and have time to take a self-guided walk around the island. However, the best way to witness the wonders of the marine world and the wildlife around the island is on a 45-minute ride aboard the Boatzer glass-bottomed boat.

Go rock pooling on Downderry Beach

A long stretch of sand and shingle backed by staggering sea cliffs, Downderry is an excellent spot for rock pooling and also home to the stunning beach house Far Horizon. Stare out to sea from an old sea captain’s house, Far Horizon, while you wait for the tide to ebb, then pad along the shoreline to Downderry, scouring the rock pools for the ocean’s bounty on the way. Keep an eye on the tides if you want to walk back along the sand, and be aware that you might feel a little over-dressed when you reach the secluded eastern end of the beach where naturists like to hang out.

Take a look around Far Horizon.

Go surfing on Whitsand Bay

Although the south coast isn’t as well known as the north coast for its surf, when conditions prevail there are a few decent waves to be found along this more sheltered coastline. Just a stone’s throw from Looe’s flat-water beaches, the surf wraps around the rugged tip of the Rame Peninsula and hits Whitsand Bay’s four miles of golden sands. So when you stay in one of our Beach Retreats overlooking Whitsand Bay, when the surf’s up you can hit the waves under the wing of expert instructors. If the waves aren’t working, you can always take plunge on a thrilling coasteering trip instead.

Find out about surf lessons.

Check out our other locations and other retreats across South Cornwall.

Take a look at our favourite ‘must sea’ retreats and explore our other holiday lets.

The Cornish Culture Club

Whether you’re into music, food, literature, sailing or surfing, soak up some Cornish culture at some of the region’s finest festivals…

With an array of festivals to suit all types and tastes, Cornwall loves any excuse to celebrate its rich maritime, foodie and literary roots. Dance with your feet in the sand, learn to cook Cornish cuisine like the master chefs, and rub shoulders with the literati. Here are some of our favourite events in 2019.

Explore more things to do in Cornwall in spring for the whole family.

Visiting with a large group? Discover our large holiday homes perfect for big families or friend groups.

Porthleven Food Festival, Porthleven

26-28 April

Porthleven’s annual food festival kicks off the holiday season with a mighty three-day feast of food, music and entertainment beside the harbour. There’s something for everyone – from chef demos, food and beer matching, street food and family entertainment, to late-night live music rocking the Shipyard Stage.

porthlevenfoodfestival.com

Fowey Festival of Literature of Arts

10-18 May

The annual Fowey Festival was launched in honour of the region’s most famous author, Daphne du Maurier, and her legacy is still very much at the core of this celebration of words, art and music. As well as readings from some of the region’s finest authors, enjoy creative workshops, art and literature trails, secret gardens and live music from classical to jazz.

foweyfestival.com

Fancy staying in Fowey? Have a look at our Fowey holiday properties.

Porthilly Spirit, Trefresa Farm

24-26 May

In its inaugural year, this intimate festival promises to be a feast for your senses, celebrating everything that is unique to Cornwall. Think wild cookery, outdoor adventures, artisan produce, seasonal feasting, music, workshops and wellbeing. And you don’t have to pitch a tent and brave the die-hard festival lifestyle – simply stay in a stylish Beach Retreat nearby.

porthillyspirit.com

Royal Cornwall Show, Wadebridge

6-8 June

Marking the onset of summer proper, Royal Cornwall showcases the country and farming lifestyle at the heart of the county. Here you can witness award-winning cattle, equestrian events and dancing tractors, alongside foodie bounty and the finest Cornish crafts.

royalcornwallshow.org

Eden Sessions, St Austell

20 June – 3 July

With a backdrop to its world-famous biomes, The Eden Project has a reputation as one of the most unique live music venues in the county. This year the Stereophonics, Liam Gallagher, Kylie Minogue and The Chemical Brothers are amongst the headliners, and all tickets daytime entry to explore this tropical paradise.

edensessions.com

Port Eliot Festival, St German’s

25-28 July

Chefs, literati and comedians come together with rock stars and DJ’s for a full-throttle party in a sprawling estate on the banks of the River Tamar. Cornwall’s quirkiest and most creative festival combines arts, music, adventures and food in a stunning venue where you can dine on local seafood by day and have a knees-up to Lily Allen by night.

porteliotfestival.com

 

Boardmasters, Watergate Bay and Fistral

7-11 August

This world-famous surf and music festival is one of the coolest dates in the Cornish festival calendar. By day international surf pros battle it out to be king of the waves, while in the evening big-name bands hit the stages overlooking Watergate Bay. With Florence + the Machine, Wu-Tang Clan and Rudimental amongst the names, this year promises to be the biggest party yet.

boardmasters.com

Falmouth week, Falmouth

9-18 August

You don’t have to like boats to make the most of this spectacular week that started out as a local sailing regatta in 1837. There’s plenty for landlubbers and maritime fans, as the whole town hits party-mode for a week of sailing competitions, street parades, family entertainment and live music.

falmouthweek.co.uk

Newquay Fish Festival, Newquay Harbour

13-15 September

Any trip to Newquay should include a seafood feast and trip to the historic harbour to see the fishermen landing fresh catch. If you’re here in September, celebrate the area’s fishing heritage and enjoy street bands, seafood cooking demos and, of course, plenty of fresh fish dishes to sample.

newquayfishfestival.co.uk

Padstow Christmas Festival, Padstow

5-8 December

Lit up by fairy lights on the edge of Padstow’s pretty harbour, Padstow’s Christmas Festival is a veritable Christmassy outing for the whole family. Not only can you get your hands on Cornwall’s finest artisan foodstuffs and witness chef demos from the region’s greats such as Stein, Outlaw and Ainsworth, you can blitz your Christmas shopping at stalls showcasing the handmade arts, textiles, toys and trinkets.

padstowchristmasfestival.co.uk

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Alternative Surf Activities in Cornwall

Cornwall has become synonymous with surfing and the surf culture, but don’t forget that there are lots of other reasons to hit the water while you’re on holiday here.

“When you’re on holiday in Cornwall there are so many ways to experience the stunning coastal environment,” says Tom Greaves, of King Coasteer. “Coasteering offers a unique perspective, as you swim, climb and traverse along the coastline, encountering all sorts of marine wildlife along the way.”

Thinking of visiting in the February half term, check out what activities we recommend trying in February.

Visiting with a large group? Discover our large holiday homes perfect for big families or friend groups.

Whether you want to glide across glassy bays, get a close-up view of the marine life or dive to the bottom of the ocean, here are some of our favourite ways to enjoy the sea when we’re not surfing:

Snorkeling

Pedn Vounder, West Cornwall

With white sands, turquoise tidal lagoons and crystal clear water backed by towering granite cliffs, it’s little wonder that Pedn Vounder is one of Cornwall’s most photographed beaches. It’s also home to some of the cleanest, clearest water in Britain; so if you brave the knee-wobbling descent to the beach, don’t forget your mask and snorkel. Glide out under the shadow of Logan Rock and you can spot crabs, starfish and all sorts of sea life including seals and dolphins. There are also regular sightings of basking sharks in May and June. Just be aware that it’s also a naturist beach, so you may feel a little overdressed when you return to shore in your wetsuit.

Stay at one of our Beach Retreats in Sennen Cove or Mousehole and it’s a short drive to the village of Treen or Porthcurno, from where you can access the coastal path to Pedn Vounder.

Handplaning

Watergate Bay, north Cornwall

If you’d like to zoom down the waves without having to grasp the skill level that stand-up surfing requires, try handplaning. A turbo-charged version of the ancient art of bodysurfing, all you need to do is strap a mini surfboard (about 30cm) to your hand and swim out into the shore break. Using a pair of fins to propel you into the waves, it’s simple to catch the breakers and carve your way along the face of the waves on your belly. Get an introductory lesson from the expert instructors at Watergate Bay’s Extreme Academy – it’s fun, relatively easy and accessible to anyone who can swim.

Stay at one of our Beach Retreats in Watergate Bay and enjoy a handplaning session at the Extreme Academy. Equipment hire is also available.

Scuba Diving

Newquay, north Cornwall

Do you fancy exploring the underwater kingdom? You don’t need to head to tropical islands to try diving; Cornwall is home to some world-class dive sites and a great location to give scuba diving a go.

Plunge beneath the waves and come face-to-face with seals, sea horses and cuttlefish on your first reef dive alongside a qualified instructor. No previous experience is required for a Discover Scuba day with Dive Newquay, during which you’ll get an introduction to the academics of diving, practise basic scuba skills in a 4 metre-deep dive pool, and finish the day with an open water dive off the Gazzel in Newquay.

Stay at one of our Beach Retreats in Newquay and Discover Scuba Diving with Dive Newquay.

Coasteering

Porth Beach, north Cornwall

Swim through gulleys, ride whirlpools, explore sea caves and leap from rocky ledges on a coasteering trip. Although it sounds like a full-throttle adventure, coasteering is a family-friendly activity and isn’t all about cliff jumping from great heights; every trip is tailored to the group. In the safe hands of the expert guides at King Coasteer, you’ll encounter sea life from starfish to seabirds, swim through smugglers’ tunnels and scramble around wave-hewn headlands, as you experience a unique perspective of the coastline.

Stay at one of our Beach Retreats in Porth, and head off on a coasteering adventure around Porth Island with King Coasteer.

Stand-up Paddleboarding

Cawsand Beach, south east Cornwall

The calm and sheltered waters lapping Cawsand are the perfect territory to get your balance on a stand-up paddleboard and castaway into the bay. Nail the basic techniques with a SUP lesson, or join a full- or half-day guided trip to explore sea caves and secret coves, spotting kingfishers and seals as you float to historic landmarks such as the mighty Artillery Steps or Grenville Battery Fort. All equipment is provided – it’s up to you whether you hire a paddleboard and castaway on your own adventure, or hire a guide to take you on a tour.

Stay in a Beach Retreat in Cawsand and head off on a stand-up paddleboarding excursion with Cawsand Kayak and SUP Hire.

Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Trip

Carbis Bay, west Cornwall

Launch from the beautiful Carbis Bay and explore St Ives Bay on a traditional outrigger canoe. These safe and stable Hawaiian craft were built to cross vast stretches of the Pacific Ocean and can seat up to seven passengers – making them perfect for a water-bound family adventure. Underwater viewers enable you to get close-up to the amazing marine life, from spider crabs and sunfish, to seals and even basking sharks.

Check out our luxury holiday properties in Carbis Bay by the sea.

Stay at one of our Beach Retreats in Portreath and it’s just 20 minutes’ drive to Carbis Bay where you can take an Outrigger Tour with Ocean Sports Centre.

See all our Beach Retreats and make new memories this year.

Planes, Trains and Automobiles

Five ways to explore Cornwall’s coastline, from its beaches and estuaries to its paradise islands…

Visiting with a large group? Discover our large holiday homes perfect for big families or friend groups.

Freewheel through woodland valleys, hop aboard one of the UK’s most scenic railways or see the coastline from the perspective of the seabirds – there are plenty of ways to soak up Cornwall’s sublime scenery. These are some of our favourites:

Skybus to the Isles of Scilly

Gliding at cloud level, looking out to the five main islands and 140 uninhabited islands and islets that make up the Isles of Scilly, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were arriving at a Caribbean archipelago. Travelling in a small 8- or 19-seater plane is all part of the adventure of reaching these paradise islands, especially if you’re used to the likes of a Boeing 747. The bird’s eye view of the Cornish coastline surpasses the inflight entertainment of regular air travel, and within 20-30 minutes you’re swooping onto the island of St. Mary’s, just like one of the many seabirds that far outnumber residents in this magical destination.

Stay at one of our holiday lets in Watergate Bay or Mawgan Porth and you’re minutes’ away from Newquay Airport, where you can catch a flight to the Isles of Scilly.

The Train to St Ives

Bag a window seat on one of the UK’s most scenic railway journeys, and gaze out to the eye-popping scenery that lured so many artists to St Ives and its surrounds. Hugging the banks of the Hayle estuary and the coastline, during the 15-minute journey you’ll be mesmerised by the scenery – from bobbing boats and beautiful beaches, to seabirds and surfers. Once you disembark above the white sands of Porthminster Beach there’s plenty of time to take a stroll around the island to spot dolphins, visit the world-famous Tate St Ives gallery and dine in a Michelin-star restaurant, before the return journey.

St Ives Train

Stay at one of our Beach Retreats in Portreath and it’s just 20 minutes’ drive to St. Erth, where trains depart to St Ives every 30mins (peak times).

Cruise along the Atlantic Highway

Join the convoy of V-Dubs with boards strapped to their roofs and hit the Atlantic Highway from Bude to Newquay. Snaking along the coast between pumping surf spots, foodie meccas and rugged beaches, make plenty of pit-stops to surf-check from wave-hewn headlands, explore the remains of Iron Age castles and dine in harbour-side hamlets such as Padstow and Port Isaac. Once you reach Newquay don a wetsuit and hit the waves before watching the sunset over the Atlantic with a locally brewed tipple in hand.

Stay in Bude or Whitsand Bay and follow the Atlantic Highway (A39) to the surfy hub of Newquay.

Discover adrenaline-pumping adventures and unforgettable experiences with Newquay’s wild activities.

The ferry from Cawsand to Plymouth

Slip seamlessly from beach life to city life aboard the passenger ferry from Cawsand to Plymouth. One minute you can be hunting for crabs and critters in the rock pools of a smugglers’ cove; the next you can be aboard The Western Maid, sailing towards the vibrant waterfront Barbican. After a twirl around Plymouth’s shops, iconic maritime landmarks and culinary hotspots, you’ll be ready for the 30-minute boat cruise back to barefoot beach life at Cawsand and Kingsand.

Stay in Whitsand Bay, a 10-minute drive to Cawsand or in Cawsand itself, where you can catch the ferry to Plymouth (Easter until October).

Cycle the Camel Trail

Trace Cornwall’s watery landscape inland as you follow 18-miles of disused railway along the banks of the Camel Estuary to the flanks of Bodmin Moor. Starting from Padstow, the Camel Trail is an easy-going cycle route that takes you to the market town of Wadebridge, on past the famous Camel Valley Vineyard and through fairy-tale woodland all the way to Bodmin Moor. Whether you complete the route or simply pedal your way to Wadebridge and back, you’ll build up a hearty appetite, ready to fuel up in one of Cornwall’s finest foodie outlets when you get back to Padstow.

Stay at our Beach Retreats in Rock and you can hop on the ferry to Padstow, hire a bike from Padstow Cycle Hire and freewheel along the Camel Trail at your leisure.