Category: Featured retreats

Hand picked retreats for September

September is here, but the sunshine hasn’t gone. Enjoy an Indian summer at one of our bespoke beachside retreats, all within walking distance to the shoreline. From early morning coffee sipped as you leave the first footprints in the sand, to late night dinners on a seafront balcony as the sun slides beyond the horizon. September by the sea is made for slow, savoured moments like these.

Here’s our top picks for available retreats this September, with something to suit all groups, from families, couples, those looking to celebrate and those holidaying with four-legged friends.

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

Browse our beach locations to find a retreat near your favourite part of the coast. Save 20% on stays throughout September and October at selected retreats, see our special offers page for more information.

For families

Through the eyes of children, sandy beaches are giant playgrounds, with shells, seaweed and shiny pebbles to collect, rockpools to examine and room for whole empires of sandcastles. Family getaways by the ocean are truly something special, opening the little ones’ eyes to the magic of the natural world whilst the adults kick back on the sand, listening to the cacophony of giggles over splashing waves. These retreats make the perfect base for a family holiday, with short walks to the beach and an array of amenities to keep all ages entertained.

Experience the magic of Skyfall in Falmouth, a luxurious beach retreat holiday cottage offering unparalleled comfort and breathtaking views along the Cornish coast.

Egret View, Fistral

Sleeps eleven

This riverfront retreat is a play palace for kids. With a life size wooden play boat, climbing wall, adaptable games table and bunk beds with a built in slide, they’ll feel transported to another world where fun rules, morning to night. Families will also love the large living, dining and kitchen area, with two separate sitting room sections and a huge dining table, meaning that everyone can be together without it feeling crammed. Slide open the glass doors to the river facing balcony and watch paddleboarders and kayakers glide past – or hire out your own and head out on the water.

Gwel Teg, Porth

Sleeps twelve

This modern cabin house is tucked away up a quiet street just moments from the family favourite beach, Porth. Inside, a leafy planted balcony leads around to a bubbling hot tub, full size table tennis table, comfy outdoor sofas and sun loungers, the perfect spot for family afternoons in the sun. Downstairs the home also features a large games room with a 75 inch TV, PS4 and bean bags, made for movie nights or gaming evenings.

For couples

Nothing says a romantic getaway like hand in hand windswept walks, lazy beach days snacking on picnics, and a retreat with the perfect private space for you to share. Our romantic retreats come in all shapes and sizes for all couples to enjoy, from cosy cottages near date night certified restaurants to sleek and secluded apartments on the best coastal walking routes. Feel the love on your next coastal getaway.

71 The Rest, Porthcawl

Sleeps four

This beachside bolthole makes for the dream space for couples who love getting active, exploring new shorelines or simply relaxing on the balcony with a magazine and gin in hand. Situated by the seaside town of Porthcawl in Wales, couples can enjoy the sprawing sands of Rest Bay, a popular spot for watersports and sunset strolls. 71 The Rest features two bedrooms, one with an ensuite, and a family bathroom, meaning that two couples could holiday together comfortably.

Pilchard Cottage, Mousehole

Sleeps five

This fisherman’s cottage has been renovated to become a fully equipped holiday retreat whilst keeping its traditional charm. In the heart of Mousehole, this is the ideal romantic getaway, inviting couples to wander cobbled streets, share ice cream overlooking the picture-book harbour and skim stones on the pebbled beach the other side of the harbour wall.

For celebrations

The pop of a Champagne bottle, sultry fizz in your glass, clinking pots of baked seafood and local veg from the farmer’s market. Celebratory holidays require enough space to all be together, to eat, drink, laugh and soak up the sun. These large, light filled homes make for dream celebration spaces, with fully equipped feast-ready kitchens and leisurely lounging spaces with vast vistas.

Watergate Lodge, Watergate Bay

Sleeps twelve

This innovative eco-home comfortably hosts twelve, with five velvety, shaded bedrooms and a large open plan living, dining and kitchen space with a curved roof and floor to ceiling glass doors which open out to the patio. Stepping outside, family and friends can relax around a roaring sunken firepit, admire the stars on the roof terrace with comfy sofas or graze on the twelve seater outdoor dining table. Inside, a Sonos surround sound speaker system, 65 inch Smart TV, separate TV room and LED lighting inside means the entertaining can continue whatever the weather.

Heron House, Fistral beach

Sleeps fourteen

Morning laps in the swimming pool, followed by garden yoga and breakfast on the balcony. This large villa-style retreat sleeps an impressive fourteen and makes for the perfect celebration getaway whether you’re looking for an active relaxation stay with friends or a family birthday gathering with daily BBQs and hot tub sessions. Situated just seconds from the River Gannel with gate access to the path below, celebrate in style by floating by on a paddleboard or setting off on a kayak excursion.

For dogs

Sandy paws, wagging tails dipped in sea water, endless sandy shores for playing fetch with sticks of driftwood. Cornwall is a pup paradise, and anyone who’s brought their dog to the beach will know how much their four-legged friends love it. Book a stay in one of our dog friendly retreats, equipped with garden space for snoozing pups and outdoor showers for rinsing off after a day on the sand.

Sea View, Crantock

Sleeps ten

Pups will love this spacious home, with a large green garden for sunny afternoons and an outdoor shower area. Sea View sits just moments from Polly Joke beach, a far quieter, loved by locals spot which is dog friendly all year round. You’re also close to the beautiful dog friendly beaches of Crantock, Holywell Bay and Fistral. The surrounding coastal path is great for dog walks, too, just be sure to keep your pup on a lead at all times when on the cliff top.

Fistral View, Fistral beach

Sleeps six

This four-floored seafront house is deceptively large, offering a stylish open plan living, dining and kitchen space, games room with comfy bean bags, two ocean facing balconies and a secluded back garden. It’s also just footsteps from one of Cornwall’s most alluring dog friendly beaches, with its expanse of golden sand, grassy dunes and rolling surf.

 

Wonderwall, Hayle

Sleeps seven

This bespoke beach lodge is close to Hayle’s Upton Towans beach, which is dog friendly all year round. The area is also great for dog walks, with the nearby nature reserve and coast path providing hazy blue vistas and plenty of wildlife. Inside, you can enjoy a decadent design filled with antique pieces and rustic furnishings, with sliding doors that open out to an enclosed garden perfect for dinners outside whilst your pup plays.

Save 20% on stays throughout September and October at selected retreats, see our special offers page for more information.

What to See & do in Porthleven? | Full Guide

Planning a trip to Porthleven and wondering what to see and do there? We’ve got you covered. This pretty harbour town has a thriving foodie scene, sandy beach and a working harbour, perfect for watching the boats bob in and out from one of the harbourside pubs. Here’s our top things to see and do in Porthleven.

Thinking about bringing your dog on holiday? Check out our dog-friendly holiday properties.

Drink at The Ship Inn

This traditional, 17th-century pub feels like you’re stepping back in time – that is, until you sample their fresh, modern menu. With traditional pub décor and an excellent view of the harbour, this cosy pub is made for whiling away the day sipping your pint of choice and admiring the harbour activity. Spot seabirds in the summer or hide from the storms in the winter, which often see waves crashing over the harbour walls. This old fisherman’s haunt is the best place in Porthleven to eat, drink and relax, no matter the weather.

Take a leisurely walk through Porthleven, discovering its picturesque harbour, stunning coastal views, and charming village atmosphere in Cornwall.

Photo credit: Ed Perkins

Eat fish and chips at the harbour

Tuck into the freshest caught fish, battered to perfection and adorned with as much salt and vinegar as you like. Fish and chips are best enjoyed right by the sea, and Porthleven’s harbour wall is an ideal spot for soaking up the bustling atmosphere as you eat. Head to Porthleven Fish and Chips or The Top Chippy to get your fix. Just watch out for hungry seagulls!

Wild swimming

Porthleven has many sheltered spots for a dip to cool off in the summer months, or, if you’re brave, during winter. Wait for high tide and head in off the harbour slipway, when the fishing boats will be far out to sea and you can enjoy a calm pool to splash about in. Or, head to Porthleven beach to get your fix of the vast Atlantic ocean – lifeguards patrol here in the summer months, making it the safest choice.

Dine at Kota

Kota means ‘shellfish’ in Maori, and you may recognise head chef Jude, who is half Maori, half Chinese Malay, from his appearance on BBC’s Great British Menu. Kota serves up the finest of local produce with a signature Asian twist, and is the ultimate fine dining experience in the area. Expect tempura oysters, crispy monkfish and seasonal greens in seaweed butter, enjoyed with handpicked wine pairings. It’s a must visit.

Watch the sunset at Rinsey Head

Enjoy panoramic views of the Lizard and Land’s End and soak up a kaleidoscopic sunset at Rinsey Head, which you can reach in a circular walk along the coast path. This walk is beautiful at any time of day, but a post-dinner stroll will reward you with the most vivid pink and orange skies as the sun rolls behind the horizon. It’s a great dog walk, too, as long as you keep your pups on the lead when on cliff path.

Go crabbing off the harbour wall

Pick up a bucket and line and wait for high tide to do a spot of crabbing off the harbour wall. This is a fun activity for kids and adults alike, and you may choose to make it a competition of who can catch the biggest! When you’re done, safely return your crabs to the ocean and reward the family with an ice cream from one of the nearby parlours.

Keep an eye on our special offers page for the latest deals and discounts on Porthleven retreats.

Explore our luxury Praa Sands holiday cottages in West Cornwall with Beach Retreats, offering stunning coastal views and serene retreats for a relaxing getaway, just a 15 minute drive from Porthleven.

Seven handpicked retreats for a family holiday

Looking for the perfect family holiday, but not sure what beach retreat is right for you? We’ll save you time scouring the shorelines for the right space with our seven handpicked retreats for a family getaway, all walking distance from our favourite family beaches in Cornwall.

So close down the search engine, book into one of these retreats and settle into a getaway on the coast. All you need to think about is packing the beach towels.

To see all of our retreats available for a summer break, click here.

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

Skyfall, Falmouth, sleeps eight

For the ultimate family holiday experience, look no further than Skyfall. This impressive duplex penthouse apartment sits up high above Gyllyngvase beach in Falmouth. The beach is a picture perfect setting for a family day out, with soft sand lined with sea pinks and a mostly calm sea great for paddling with little ones. Skyfall sleeps eight, accepts one small/medium size dog and has availability for the weeks starting 16 July, 30 July and 27 August.

Find out more about Skyfall.

Heron House, Fistral, sleeps 14

For large families or a trip bringing several families together, Heron House is perfect. Sleeping fourteen just moments from the family friendly River Gannel near Fistral, memories can be made around the private pool, in the games and cinema room or down on the riverbanks. Enjoy activities nearby such as crabbing, horseriding and stand up paddleboarding, before dining all together on the large waterfront balcony.

Heron House has availability for the weeks of 3 July, 10 July and 21 August, see more here.

Want to stay in Fistral? Have a look at our other luxury holiday cottages in Fistral.

Winnow, Watergate Bay, sleeps 10

For a family holiday in style, choose Winnow. Situated on the shorefront of family favourite Watergate Bay, this retreat balances luxury with laid back coastal living, creating the perfect pad for kicking back and relaxing after a day on the sand. Recently redesigned by BBC One Interior Design Masters winner Banjo Beale, you’ll fall in love with its outdoors inspired and sustainably sourced interiors. Winnow is available the week of 23 June and 18 August, see more here.

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

Sandpiper, Perranporth, sleeps six

For a peaceful family retreat which is still within arm’s reach of the shoreline, try Sandpiper. Just a ten minute walk along the coast path to Perranporth beach, any family will love a holiday in this town, with its quirky shops, vibrant cafes and family friendly beach. Sandpiper is available the weeks starting 18 June, 25 June, 16 July, 23 July and 27 August, find out more here.

Beachside Bude, Widemouth Bay, sleeps eight

Looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life? Head to Beachside Bude, situated on the rugged shoreline of Widemouth Bay in north Cornwall. This retreat is perfect for families with young children due to its large grassy garden, where hour after happy hour can be spent playing and relaxing under the summer sun. Beachside Bude is new to our books and has availability throughout July and August, find out more here.

8 The Bay, Cawsand, sleeps six

For calming interiors and sea views set amongst an adorable fishing village, choose 8 The Bay. This apartment is right on the seafront of Cawsand, a hidden gem in south Cornwall. Catch the ferry across to Plymouth, walk the south west coast path or just enjoy a day on Kingsand beach next door. 8 The Bay has availability throughout July and August, see inside here.

Cannery Row, Hayle, sleeps six per house

For relaxed waterfront living, take your pick of the selection of wharf houses at Cannery Row, on the Hayle estuary. Choose between 1 Cannery Row, 15 Cannery Row and 16 Cannery Row, all of which have calming interiors and waterfront balconies where you can spot wildlife. Or, head to the beach for kite flying and ride ponies along the shore. Each Cannery Row retreat has availability for selected weeks across summer, click here to browse.

Want to see more retreats? Click here to search all of our available summer stays.

Staff pick of the month: Swell, Falmouth

Our new series, Staff pick of the month, asks members of the team about their favourite Beach Retreats property. This month we speak to Operations Manager Kat Dreifke. Kat, originally from Germany, now lives in Cornwall and loves exploring the coastline with her partner Lee, daughter Lottie and dog Juni.

Her chosen retreat is Swell, a four bedroomed retreat just moments from the peaceful waters of Swanpool beach in Falmouth.

Check out more of our Falmouth properties and discover one of our other bespoke retreats in Falmouth.

What is it you like most about this property?

The surrounding area and the close proximity to the beach. The views are stunning, the interior design is just lovely and of wonderful quality, and the outdoor space makes this property perfect for spending warm summer evenings in the garden enjoying the Cornish sun until late.

Want to explore our other luxury holiday houses with a view of the sea? Check out our cottages with sea views.

What will be your favourite part of the day when staying at this retreat?

Early mornings, for a sea swim at the beautiful Swanpool beach, and late evenings enjoying some al fresco dining and a glass of vino in the garden.

What is it that you like about the local area?

You can decide whether you want busy or not- Falmouth town centre is short walk away, where there is plenty to see and do and many shops, or you can stay in the more peaceful areas such as Swanpool beach and the surrounding coast.

What’s the nearest beach like and how far is the walk?

Swanpool beach is stunning! It’s great for swimming and has everything you need, including a local activity centre and a café on site. There’s even a crazy golf next to the beach. The walk is just a couple of minutes down the road from Swell which is great for popping back and forth from the house to the beach.

Is there a particular restaurant in the area that you would choose to eat at?

Hooked on the Rocks for great local seafood, every day!

Satisfy your culinary cravings in Falmouth, a paradise for foodies, as we uncover the hidden gems and delectable delights awaiting your discovery.

Can you catch a good sunset or sunrise here?

Falmouth is on the south coast so it’s known for its great sunrises! The sea view balcony from the bedroom and living room of this property means you can wake up with the first rays of natural light and watch it rise over the sea.

What would you say is a must-see or do in this area?

Pendennis Castle and Gyllyngvase Beach are great but if you can travel a little further then Trebah Garden is wonderful.

Swell sleeps eight and has 2022 availability, click here to find out more.

Interior Design Masters Winner | Get the Look

Get the look of Interior Design Masters winner Banjo Beale’s winning prize contract design!

We were so excited to unveil Interior Design Masters winner Banjo Beale’s redesign of Winnow, the prize contract for the show. Winnow is our self-catering retreat at Watergate Bay, and Banjo’s vision for the new design was all about sustainability, using a mix of antique, vintage and upcycled furniture mixed with recycled and natural fabrics and textures to create the finished product. The transformed space is a light-filled, warm and inviting coastal haven, which tells a story of the wild Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding rugged cliffs through its outdoors-inspired interiors.

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

We’ve got all the details from Banjo about where he sourced some of his furnishings, so you can get the look yourself.

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

1. The brown wooden chairs in the living room are made from pineapples, a signature piece from Pinatex Pineapple Leather.

2. The lounge light shades which can be seen being used by Banjo in Interior Design Masters, are from Ferm Living.

3. The metal chairs in the living room are from Ferm Living.

4. There are two stunning photography Prints, one in the living room and one in the kitchen by Kara Rosenlund.

5. The upholstery for the living room daybed was made by Poh Maluna.

6. The framed seaweed prints are from Molesworth and Bird.

7. The llustrations in the living room are by Sam Scales.

8. The sofa was custom designed by Banjo and made by Claytons Upholstery.

9. The linen curtains are from Ada and Ina Fabric.

10. The signature lobster cushion was a collaboration with Amy Davies Design.

11. The most comfortable chair in the property – the studio Chair was from Buchannan Studio.

12. The dining table was ordered from Galvin Bros.

13. The dining chairs surrounding it are Zara Home.

14. You’ll find plenty of Turkish Urns and Pots in the kitchen made by Lots of Pots Gatwick.

15. The shades above the kitchen island were ordered from International Art and Antique Fair.

16. Many of the plants are were sourced by Banjo from Columbia Road Market, including the Coco Palms, Bird of Paradise and Kentia Palm.

17. The kitchen cupboards are made from rough sawn oak by local carpenter.

18. The grass lamp on the kitchen counter is from Abigail Ahern.

19. The outdoor table is perfect for alfresco dining and was made by Sustainable Furniture.

20. The outdoor chairs were locally made by Mena Woodwork.

21. The wallpaper found in the wc was custom designed by Amy Davies Design.

22. The bedheads were custom designed by Banjo with the yellow and green bedhead fabric from Fermoie.

23. Here you’ll find the brown wooden pineapple chairs again, from Pinatex Pineapple Leather

24. More plants from Columbia Road Market.

25. The bedside tables were purchased from Ceraudo.

26. The bedroom lamps are Kalinko.

27. The Jack & Jill bathroom taps and concrete sink were designed and purchased by Cast Iron Bath Company.

28. The bathroom tiles can be found at Mosaic Factory 

29. The antique brass handles and power points throughout are from Corston Architectural.

What have we missed?
Contact us if you’re keen to know more about a particular piece.

Get inspired by our interior designed retreats in various beach locations around Cornwall, and keep an eye on our special offers page for your next stay.

Indulge in luxury with our Penthouse Edit, showcasing the most exquisite coastal retreats for an unforgettable stay along the Cornish coast.

Interior Design Masters winner Q&A

Light. Colour. Character. The winner of this year’s Interior Design Masters with Alan Carr knows what it takes to bring a space to life. And, he tells us, it all starts with a story…

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

From the salty sea-dog sister of Laurence Llewelyn Bowen kicking back in a shepherd’s hut, to a drunken botanist making a country house hotel his home, Interior Design Masters’ 2022 winner Banjo Beale’s fictional characters kept us entertained and enthralled throughout this year’s show.

The BBC One series hosted by Alan Carr saw eight contestants compete over six weeks to impress design judge and former editor of Elle Decoration Michelle Ogundehin, in the hope of winning a contract to refresh one of our Beach Retreats at Watergate Bay.

Inspiring the designs he brought to life in each episode and driving him to seek out the vintage finds, unique styles and problem solving mindset that saw him take the Interior Design Masters crown, imagination has always sat at the heart of Banjo’s spaces.

And the property redesign he tackled as his prize was no exception. Tasked with refreshing Winnow, a four bedroom Beach Retreats at Watergate Bay, Banjo played with natural textures, bountiful light, bright colours and one-off salvaged pieces to weave a story that sings from the moment you walk in the door.

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

Fresh from applying the last lick of paint, we caught up with Banjo to tell us more about his Interior Design Masters experience, the insights he learnt and the things he discovered about design, creativity and Watergate Bay through the process.

To see Winnow in full, click here.

Congratulations! How does it feel to be the winner of this year’s Interior Design Masters (IDM)?

I’m buzzing to have won IDM. It was a rollicking rollercoaster around the country that ends in gorgeous Cornwall… or is it just the beginning?

What were your expectations of the show before you took part?

I expected an adventure and what I got was so much more. I got well out of my comfort zone, tried things I’d never dream of and in my pursuit of that perfect wow piece, I travelled the length of breadth of the country, picking up a vintage canoe in Grimsby, ripping out port hole windows from a boat in Brighton harbour and driving eight hours for a vintage parasol from Ibiza.

An incredible apprenticeship I’d call it, albeit with cameras in your face and Alan Carr heckling you but I got to hone my skills and create some crazy spaces, from dangling a canoe from a Cotswold cabin to now, designing a holiday cottage in Cornwall.

Which was the most challenging brief you tackled in the competition?

I had no idea just how intense pulling together a whole room would be. I am not a natural born planner, it was a challenge, pulling everything together from the paint down to the last screw. I am more of a dreamer than a doer, but I quickly learned to get my hands dirty, solve problems fast and keep moving. Plus, for someone like me, forever hunting that elusive vintage piece, it meant lots and lots of driving.

Any moments that really stand out for you, perhaps a turning point, a challenge you overcame, something funny and/or unforgettable?

It was the in-between moments where the magic happens. The characters you meet on the road and the friends who become family, from the contestants to the crew. For me, the most incredible moment is seeing the owners reaction to their space transformation. These businesses are their livelihood and that’s a lot of pressure. But to see tears of joy and to know you’ve changed their life a little bit, you can’t beat that feeling.

What would you say is your signature style as a designer?

Natural, vintage and reclaimed with a healthy dose of greenery is my signature style. I enjoy natural textures and pieces with character, particularly primitive design. On the show, I was stretched to embrace more colour and although I really enjoy a neutral design story, I found colour unlocked a new world for me.

I’m also really inspired by storytellers like Wes Anderson and Roald Dahl, people who create imaginary worlds and bring them to life. I live in my own dream land half the time, so I love creating a little bit of make believe in spaces. Every space I tackle now I like to create an imaginary character and bring their world alive with objects, art and history. When I’m shopping or hunting for treasure, it helps me get into their mind, whether it’s an 18th century drunk botanist or an 18-year-old party girl from Manchester.

My other design inspiration is my granny friend, or Franny as I like to call her. She built the cheese farm we live on and at 83 years old, she has taught me many amazing things from weaving willow, making pottery, and caring for tropical plants (in Scotland!) in her giant glass barn. She is always dreaming and always scheming.

What was the most valuable piece of feedback or insight that you got from Michelle Ogundehin and the other judges and how has it influenced your process and thinking as a designer on your work at Winnow?

I absorbed everything Michelle said to me. I wasn’t on the judging sofa too many times so I consumed lots of her writing and Instagram advice, from learning what a muddy green is to creating a healthy space. One piece of advice she gave was to make it warm, and I really brought that to my Beach Retreats space at Watergate Bay. I want people, in summer or winter, day or night to feel a summer glow in their holiday home. From the cushions to the lighting, my space is a little ray of sunshine.

What’s next for you and how has IDM and the process shaped those ambitions and plans?

I’d love to continue creating spaces and sharing stories. Design doesn’t have to take itself so seriously so I want to make characterful spaces for colourful characters.

About the Beach Retreats project

What excites you most about working with Beach Retreats?

I had never been to Cornwall before this project and I have to say, I get it. It’s all about the location and I was so inspired by the natural surroundings, bringing the outside in and creating a truly special holiday destination where people can come back down to earth.

What were your first impressions of Winnow and the setting?

Winnow was an amazing blank canvas. The bones of the building were great, perched on top of a hill overlooking cliffs. An architecturally designed building, with gorgeous natural light is a dream brief. My challenge was to create a space that was just as good inside, as Cornwall is outside.

From where have you drawn inspiration for the project?

Watergate Bay is a kaleidoscope of natural colours and textures. The wild Atlantic coast, craggy clay cliffs, wildflowers and sandy beaches inspired my natural colour palette and texture story.

Throughout the show, Michelle and the other judges spoke about showing your design story, a continuous thread of an idea across the space. What’s the story you’re telling with Winnow and how does your design realise it?

I started in Montauk, upstate New York, a seaside town with sloped roofs, modernist buildings and lots of creative types. I added a dose of Cornish seaside with intricate fine art photography of seaweed and shells and layered this with found art, objects and textures. My character? You know when you are a kid and you have one mate with just the coolest parents, well they were my imaginary client. An artist and a marine biologist who travel the world, collecting art and ephemera, and always land back in Watergate Bay in their large seaside abode, where their children, grandchildren and dogs reunite, sharing seafood feasts at long tables and reading in pillowy armchairs and daybeds.

How have you incorporated sustainability into your design?

I like to avoid big box stores and always hunt for reclaimed pieces first. I adore re-imagining unexpected things into useful objects, like my dining room lampshade I found at a market that was once a Hungarian chicken coop. If I buy new, I like to look at natural materials or interesting, forward-thinking brands like my living room chairs which are made of Pineapple leather. Pinatex take discarded pineapple tops and turn them into the most amazingly realistic leather like material. My other chairs are made from recycled plastic bottles.

Winnow is your first commercial project, what’s been your biggest learning / surprise?

Interior Design is 99% logistics. The project stretched me from being a dreamer to a doer and unlocked the list maker in me. It taught me that with time, a trusting client and a brave outlook, I can create spaces that are a little bit magic.

About interior design

What are your top tips for giving your bedroom the feel of a holiday home?

Make it warm. Add natural textures like linen, rattan and wood and layer that with lots of cushions, relaxed furniture and art that talks to your favourite location.

Beach Retreats is all about being by the coast and living the outdoor lifestyle, are there any quick and easy ways to bring this vibe into interior design for the home?

The coast offers endless inspiration. For me, I wanted to create an outdoor living room inside. Charred timber cladding is typically seen on the exterior of a building so I brought it inside and in doing so created a natural, textural element that drew the eye back out to the view.

What’s the one thing worth splurging on and what can you save on?

I like to mix high and low pieces. From vintage market finds that cost a dime, like my coffee table and Hungarian chicken coop light shade to designer pieces like my pillow armchair from Buchannan Studio and my bespoke table Galvin Bros and outdoor chairs from local maker, Mena woodwork.

What differences are there in designing a holiday space and the home?

A holiday home should make you feel refreshed, recharged and relaxed. Why should you limit that to your holiday? Why not make a holiday at home with your design choices?

To see Winnow in full, click here.

Check out some of our luxury retreats fit for a king, featuring pools and indoor pool rooms.

Staff pick of the month: The Old Store, Portloe

Our new series, Staff pick of the month, asks members of the team about their favourite Beach Retreats property. This month we speak to Owner Services Co-ordinator, Belinda Peckett. Belinda lives in South Cornwall and has a dog called Ruby, and their favourite walk is the circular walk from Polkerris to the Gribben Head.

Her chosen retreat is The Old Store, an elegantly converted house which blends tradition and modernity to create the perfect retreat just 150 metres from Portloe beach.

What is it you like most about this property?

I like the fact that is located in a slightly lesser known part of the South Coast of Cornwall, with easy access to spectacular coastal walks. Portloe is in the Roseland Peninsula which is a stunning and often quieter part of Cornwall.

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

What will be your favourite part of the day when staying at this retreat?

Early in the morning, when you can wander down to the harbour and hopefully see the fishing vessels unloading their quarry. I love the traditional fishing atmosphere of the town.

Check out our other properties in Portloe and explore more of our luxury holiday cottages.

What is it that you like about the local area?

Access to spectacular long coastal walks in either direction, where I could take Ruby for a stroll or spend the day exploring. It’s a walkers paradise!

What’s the nearest beach like and how far is the walk?

The nearest beach is Portloe which is a small beach in the harbour, but Pendower beach is about 3 miles away walking via the South West Coastal Path. The spectacular scenery makes it so worth the walk – the beach merges with Carne and is expansive at low tide which is the best time to visit.

Explore what the area has to offer with our walk through Portloe, soaking in the picturesque coastal village charm and scenic beauty that defines this hidden gem in South Cornwall.

Is there a particular restaurant in the area that you would choose to eat at?

The Hidden Hut at Porthsatho, for their grilled mackerel. They use fresh fish caught that day in their meals so it’s always delicious.

Can you catch a good sunset or sunrise here?

The south coast is best for sunrises, and you will catch a great one down on the beach or high up on the coast path. The great thing about this property is that it’s so close to the sea, you can just wake up and head out to see the sun rising.

What would you say is a must-see or do in this area?

In Spring time the magnolias in the gardens at Caerhays Castle are a must see.

The Old Store sleeps six and accepts pets, click here to find out more.

Where to Stay in Cornwall for Couples?

Are you looking for a couples’ getaway to the coastline? Cornwall is a great place for holidaying with your loved one, with its romantic villages, swathes of sandy beach and pastel-hued sunsets. But with over 300 beaches to choose from, where is the best place to stay for your visit? We’ve come up with a guide of where to stay in Cornwall for couples, meaning the two of you can carve out a special place on the Cornish coast.

Visiting Cornwall for a romantic adventure? Check out our romantic cottages.

Fistral

Fistral is one of the most famous Cornish beaches, and for good reason. Here you’ll find dramatic sunsets and crashing surf, ideal for evenings spent walking along the shoreline and enjoying a chilled drink on the sand. For your date night, head to The Fish House for delectable seafood with a sea view, recently featured in the Michelin Guide. The surrounding area of Newquay is also home to an array of bars and restaurants, including the Lewinnick Lodge on Pentire Headland.

We have a variety of couples retreats in Fistral, including modern apartments for two with sea views. Find a retreat in Fistral.

Hayle

For rugged Cornish beauty and an abundance of nature, head to the north Cornish estuary town of Hayle. Situated just along the coast from St Ives and Carbis Bay, you can catch the five-minute scenic train ride along the cliff’s edge and soak up spectacular vistas. Back in Hayle, enjoy three miles of golden sand, rolling dunes, amber sunsets and various nature trails populated with all kinds of wildlife.

Thought about staying in St Ives? Have a look at our luxury St Ives holiday properties. Just a short drive away from Hayle.

Our retreats in Hayle include the Cannery Row houses, a selection of romantic, glass fronted wharf houses directly on the riverfront. Browse our retreats in Hayle.

Falmouth

Falmouth is where culture, art, great food and marina life meet. This vibrant town is full of quirky shops, wine bars and restaurants, alongside five sheltered beaches and a glamorous marina perfect for evening boat trips. Sail masts bobbing on the water, the breeze in your hair and a glass of something bubbly in your hand… what’s more romantic than that?

Our retreats in Falmouth include The Liner, a selection of impressive and contemporary apartments which look directly onto Gyllyngvase beach. Find a retreat in Falmouth.

Whitsand Bay

For something more secluded, Whitsand Bay is a must-visit spot. It’s a place that must be seen to be believed, consisting of romantic cabins which are dotted right on the face of a dramatic clifftop landscape. Here, you’ll feel that it’s just the two of you, gazing out at the panoramic horizon. Situated on the South coast, Whitsand Bay is bathed in golden light at sunrise, and is worth the early morning start to see it.

Stay in one of our clifftop cabins at Whitsand Bay and let the sparks fly. Browse them here.

Bude

Last but not least, Bude is a perfect couples getaway location. Spend the day walking the South West Coast Path, exploring secluded coves and picnicking on clifftops, before immersing yourself in the beach’s very own sea pool for an evening dip. With just the right balance of quiet coastline and a colourful town with plenty of places to eat, drink and shop, Bude is a great all-rounder location for your couples’ holiday to Cornwall.

Our retreats in Bude include the glamorous Bol-Y-Maer apartments which sit just moments from the salty shores of Crooklet’s beach. Find a Bude retreat here.

Discover six romantic retreats for Valentine’s Day in Cornwall, offering luxurious accommodations and stunning coastal settings for an unforgettable getaway.

Staff pick of the month: Watergate Lodge

Our new series, Staff pick of the month, asks members of the team about their favourite Beach Retreats property. This month we speak to Customer Services & Reservations Co-ordinator, Jodie Ferguson. Jodie is a Newquay local and mum to two daughters and a very active dog called Bugsy. She loves to spend her weekends walking Bugsy, especially on large open beaches allowing him to run around.

Her chosen retreat is Watergate Lodge, an innovative eco house just moments from the beach which features an impressive outdoor space and a modern, sustainable design.

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

What is it you like most about this property?

The fact it’s so new and modern, and has wonderful décor inside, yet still blends perfectly into the area like it’s always been there. Driving past you barely notice it amongst the greenery because of its grass and wildflower roof.

What will be your favourite part of the day when staying at this retreat?

Definitely sitting around the firepit in the enclosed courtyard garden. It has an amazing outside space where you can watch the night sky and spend the evening out in the fresh air, but still stay warm by the fire. I also love the roof terrace with outdoor sofas if you want to get more comfortable and still watch the stars.

What is it that you like about the local area?

I love the rugged North Coast of Cornwall and I enjoy the coastal path walks which you can pick up within a short 10 mins from this property. You can walk from Watergate to Mawgan Porth along the cliff path in no time, and from there can go even further to the beautiful Bedruthan steps. It’s so peaceful, especially being able to walk along the cliffs and away from the main roads.

Want to stay in Newquay? Have a look at our other luxury holiday properties in Newquay.

What’s the nearest beach like and how far is the walk?

Watergate bay is only a couple of minutes walk away and I love how you can access it by walking through the gardens nearby. I’d love to be able to get home that quickly after a day on the beach! It’s perfect for walking my dog on as its so huge and is dog friendly all year round.

Is there a particular restaurant in the area that you would choose to eat at?

I love the pub food at The Travellers Rest, which is a short drive away towards Mawgan Porth. Or, if I want to watch the sea then The Beach Hut at Watergate bay is only a couple of minutes away and is always delicious.

Can you catch a good sunset or sunrise here?

Watergate bay has some stunning sunsets, as the sun sets directly over the North coast. I’d love to walk up onto to the coast path from this retreat to get an even better view as the sun goes down. It’s also great how you can run down from the retreat and quickly catch the sunset as you’re so close to it.

What would you say is a must-see or do in this area?

Learn to surf or play in the sea. The Extreme Academy is on the beach, where you can have surf lessons, and Watergate bay gets great waves. The beach is lifeguard patrolled in the peak months meaning it’s safe to take the family for a dip.

Experience the beauty of Watergate Bay with our guided walk, immersing yourself in stunning coastal views and the relaxed ambience of this Cornish gem.

Watergate Lodge sleeps 12 guests and has availability for 2022, click here to find out more.

Staff pick of the month: Egret View, Fistral

Our new series, Staff pick of the month, asks members of the team about their favourite Beach Retreats property. This month we speak to Reservation and Customer Service Manager, Lucy Thomasson. Lucy is a Newquay local and a mum of two boys, and she loves raising her kids here in Cornwall and spending time with them on the beach.

Her chosen retreat is Egret View, an impressive family house in Fistral, with views across the River Gannel and towards Crantock beach.

What is it you like most about this property?

There are so many things that I love about this property. The large open plan living space is great for socialising. I can also visualise my children arriving on holiday and being amazed by the wooden boat, climbing wall and slide bed, they would have hours of fun in this house whilst I sit and enjoy the views across the Gannel from the balcony.

What will be your favourite part of the day when staying at this retreat?

Being able to wake up in the morning and walk down to the Gannel for an early morning swim or paddle board.

What is it that you like about the local area?

The property is located close to The River Gannel and Crantock beach which is where I used to spend my summer holidays as a child. I have lots of happy memories and it’s my favourite place to be. My boys love the swings on the trees and hunting playing in the pools of water at low tide.

Want to stay in Fistral? Have a look at our luxury holiday cottages in Fistral.

What’s the nearest beach like and how far is the walk?

Crantock and Fistral are both nearby. Crantock can be reached by walking down to the Gannel and crossing the small wooden bridge at low tide- just be careful to check the tide times or you’ll end up stuck the wrong side of the river! You can also drive round to Crantock for the day to avoid this. Fistral is just five minutes away too, and is a perfect surfing beach. You can also walk the coast path to Polly Joke which is beautiful when the poppies are out.

Take a scenic walk through Fistral Beach and Pentire Point, exploring the breathtaking landscapes and coastal beauty of Cornwall.

Is there a particular restaurant in the area that you would choose to eat at?

Lewinnick Lodge is great for food or just a quick drink after a day exploring. It’s on the headland just a short walk from the property, and the views are incredible.

Can you catch a good sunset or sunrise here?

I love taking an early evening stroll around Pentire headland where there are lovely benches for you to sit and watch the sunset. The sun sets directly over Fistral beach so on a clear evening it looks amazing.

What would you say is a must-see or do in this area?

You have to try paddle boarding or horse riding along the Gannel. The house is a short walk from Trenance stables, where you can book onto horse riding lessons and rides alongside the river.

Egret View sleeps 11 guests and has availability for 2022, click here to find out more.

Want to stay in a luxury holiday house with a view of the sea? Check out our cottages with sea views.