Category: Featured retreats

5 Cornwall Holiday Lets For This New Years Eve

Escape to the coast and bring in the New Year in style

Whether you are looking for a peaceful getaway beside the beach or a festive family break, Cornwall is the place to be. Eat at great restaurants, dance the night away on the beach or cosy up by the fire at home, however, you choose to bring in the New Year, Beach Retreats has a fantastic selection of places to stay. Here are five we have hand-picked for you for the perfect New Year in Cornwall.

See all available properties.

Find out why New Year is the best time to visit Cornwall and some of our holiday retreats to stay in for the New Year.

For Groups

Seamist, Watergate Bay

Sleeps 16 with 20% off

With eight bedrooms, seven bathrooms, two living rooms, a games room and plenty of space for the kids to run around, Seamist in Watergate Bay is the perfect haven for your family get together this season. Interior designed throughout, this house is exceptional in every way with its sense of space and light and design and finish. The living room big enough for all is perfectly placed on the first floor so guests can make the most of the ocean views in the distance.

Where to dine: Watergate Bay and its golden beach is just a five-minute car journey away. Restaurants include The Beach Hut and Wax Watergate Bay. If you want to stay in New Years and make the most of the house, we have some fabulous recommendations for private catering.

Book a New Year break at Seamist.

 

For couples

Harbourside Cottage, Boscastle

Sleeps 2 with 15% off

For a cosy night in with your loved one in front of the roaring fire, head to the romantic Harbourside Cottage in Boscastle this New Year. This beautiful Cornish location will give you an away from it all feeling, so you can bring in the New Year feeling refreshed and relaxed. Walk the coast path for awe-inspiring views, stop at the local pub for a bite to eat and glass of red, or simply put your feet up and enjoy the quiet surroundings.

Where to dine: Head to Napoleon Inn, a low beamed 16th century pub and restaurant serving delicious Cornish food and ales straight from the barrel. Dine in the pub or book into the restaurant for waitress service.

Book a New Year break at Harbourside Cottage.

Check out our other Boscastle holiday retreats.

 

For adrenaline junkies

Tides Watch, Fistral

Sleeps 4, now with 15% off

Jump from bed to board at this beautiful ground floor apartment, situation across from the renowned Fistral beach in north Cornwall. Tides Watch offers luxurious interiors throughout, with large bay windows offering jaw-dropping views across the Atlantic Ocean. Blow the cobwebs away with a morning surf, join Newquay Activity Centre for a New Year’s Eve charity Coasteer, or catch the fantastic annual fireworks display that will light up the sky and rugged coast.

Where to dine: You’re spoilt for choice when dining out at Fistral, head to the Fish House Fistral, Stein’s Fistral, Lewinnick Lodge or The Stable Newquay.

Book a New Year break at Tides Watch, Fistral

 

For families

The Oyster Bed, Mawgan Porth

Sleeps 5

With the beach forming your natural playground just 150 metres away, The Oyster Bed in Mawgan Porth is the ideal home for your family-friendly adventure this New Year. Enjoy an embracing walk New Year’s Day, play games and storm watch from the private balcony and visit the twinkling Padstow harbour less than 10 miles away. The Oyster Bed is a brand-new contemporary house with cosy coastal interiors throughout.

Where to dine: Stay close and dine at Catch Seafood Bar & Grill or head to neighbouring towns Padstow and Watergate Bay for Prawn on the Lawn and Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant.

Book a New Year break at The Oyster Bed, Mawgan Porth

 

For wagging tails

The Breakers, Porth

Sleeps 13, now with 15% off

Give your dog a New Year to remember with a stay at The Breakers, situated directly opposite the dog-friendly Porth beach. Wake up and play fetch on the beach, relax in front of a crackling fire in one of Cornwall’s many pet friendly pubs and walk the coast path to Watergate bay and beyond. This picture-perfect coastal house (featured in Ideal Homes Magazine) offers plenty of space for the whole family, an outdoor hot tub, breath-taking sea views and has surf and body boards for those feeling brave enough for a New Year’s Day dip.

Where to dine: Take your furry friend to the local Cornish pub the Mermaid Inn where you can taste local ales and a great choice of winter warmer food dishes.

Book a New Year break at The Breakers, Porth

Still considering about staying for the New Year? Find out the best way to celebrate and spend the New Year in Cornwall.

Looking for something different? See all available New Year properties and browse our beach locations to find your favourite place to see in the New Year. Keep an eye on our special offers page, too, for the latest seasonal discounts.

5 Harbourside Cottages in Cornwall

Cornwall is filled to the brim with pretty harbours just waiting to be explored…

Visit Cornwall’s coastline and you’ll find yourself at one of its picturesque harbours. Some more hidden than others, each is unique with something different and exciting to offer its visitors. Below we give you five self-catering properties that are located in fabulous harbourside villages with some inside information on the area.

Which cottage would you choose? Let us know by joining the conversation on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

Visiting Cornwall for a workcation? Have a look at our holiday lets perfect for extended stays and working.

The Shell Seeker, Mousehole

This cosy Grade II former fishermen’s cottage sleeps four and is perfectly located in the heart of Mousehole, just a few steps away from the harbour, shops, galleries and restaurants. Guests are welcomed with a wealth of original features including beamed ceilings, a granite hearth, flagstone flooring and a stained glass window, with a contemporary twist.

Perch on the harbour wall with a picnic, spend the day on the beach as the tide goes out, or watch the fishermen’s boats bobbing on the horizon. Guests staying in Mousehole will find an abundance of things to see and do during their stay.

Walk to the harbour in 70 metres.

Book your stay at The Shell Seeker in Mousehole.

 

Toms Cottage, Porthleven

Oozing Cornish charm and tradition, Porthleven is a coastal village in west Cornwall boasting a pretty harbour and sandy beach beside it. Small fishing boats land their daily catch in Porthleven, where plenty is sold to Porthleven cafes, restaurants and the award winning Quayside fishmongers.

Tom’s Cottage is a renovated 18th century fisherman’s cottage located just a short walk from the harbour. Sleeping two guests, we recommend this cosy cottage to those wanting a romantic break with their loved one, as well as those that see themselves as foodies. Restaurants nearby include Rick Stein’s Porthleven, Amelie’s, Kota Kai and The Hideaway – ranked highly on TripAdvisor.

Walk to the harbour in 750 metres.

Book your stay at Tom’s Cottage, Porthleven.

Discover our other Porthleven holiday properties.

 

Harbourside Cottage, Boscastle

Boscastle is the very definition of North Cornish beauty; steep cliffs, an ancient, picturesque harbour and a cluster of gorgeous cottages interspersed with little cafes and shops. The pace of life in this pretty village is blissfully relaxed – the toughest decision of the day is what flavour ice cream to choose. If you need some serious downtime to recharge the batteries, Boscastle is a great choice.

And so is Harbourside Cottage. This romantic retreat has been thoughtfully renovated to retain lots of period features, including the wood burning stove, deep slate-lined window recesses and original beams. Set well back from the road, it’s a peaceful hideaway just a 300 metre potter to Boscastle’s ancient harbour, where the river meets the ocean.

Walk to the harbour in 300 metres.

Book your stay at Harbourside Cottage, Boscastle.

 

Jasmine Cottage, Port Isaac

Boasting clear waters on a sunny day, narrow winding streets and white washed fisherman’s houses, it’s no wonder this location is used year after year for ITV’s Doc Martin series. In a day, stroll down to the harbour and watch the daily catch of crab and lobster be hauled in, enjoy an afternoon tipple at the Red Lion with its picture perfect views, or dine at the UK’s No1 Restaurant, Restaurant Nathan Outlaw. Sounds good right?

At the end of your day, put your feet up and unwind at Jasmine Cottage. Sleeping four guests, this pretty Cottage offers a tranquil haven to enjoy the views, yet close to the bustling fishing port. The light-filled open plan living space comes with original beams, Cornish sash windows and flagstone floors. Outside guests can make use of the garden patio with its BBQ, fire pit and seating area, great for some Cornish alfresco dining.

Walk to the harbour in 200 metres.

Book your stay at Jasmine Cottage, Port Isaac.

 

Pilots Cottage, Mousehole

Just because we love Mousehole so much, here’s another. Pilot’s Cottage built approximately 175 years ago for an old fisherman, has been carefully renovated preserving original features with a contemporary twist. Sleeping five guests and accepting pets, it’s perfect for those wanting to experience a true Cornish setting.

Light the fire for a cosy night in during the winter months, step outside onto the cobbled street that leads you to the restaurants, cafes and galleries or enjoy a paddle in the water as the boats bob beside you. We recommend a Cornish cream tea at the Rock Pool Cafe.

Walk to the harbour in 60 metres.

Book a stay at Pilots Cottage, Mousehole.

Looking for a fantastic restaurant in Cornwall? Check out some of our favourite restaurants with stunning sea views.

Book your harbourside break with Beach Retreats.

Feeling the love at Harbourside Cottage in Boscastle

Hear how Helen from Beach Retreats got on during her stay at Harbourside Cottage in Boscastle, Cornwall.

Picturesque Boscastle sits on the dramatic North coast of Cornwall, where two rivers meet the sea. This little inlet was naturally shaped into the perfect escape from rough seas for local fishermen and maybe even smugglers in days gone by. Today it’s a quintessentially Cornish village, a haven for walkers enjoying the South West Coast Path, and for those that want to dip their toes in the water while enjoying the beach that appears in the harbour at low tide.

This cute little village is actually pretty tough, having been decimated by severe flooding back in 2004. Looking at the river today it is hard to believe it could ever have been so destructive.

 

Harbourside Cottage miraculously escaped the floods, sitting just a few steps from the riverside on a quiet side street of character cottages. This cosy coastal hideaway sleeps 2 and also welcomes dogs, who can enjoy the secluded decked garden along with you, or take a short stroll to the river for their daily paddle. The property itself has everything the weary traveller needs on arrival, including plenty of tea and coffee and fresh milk, perfect for a quick cuppa in the garden before heading back out to explore.

Once we’d had our fill of our first harbour views, we headed back to the cottage for a barbeque in the garden, making use of the fully equipped kitchen before retiring for an early night in anticipation of the following day’s adventures. The double bedroom at Harbourside Cottage is spacious for a quirky cottage and has views out to the harbour. The high quality white bedlinen and soft fluffy pillows were so inviting and we soon dropped off to the distant sound of the running river.

In the morning we enjoyed the compact yet spacious feel of the cottage while getting ready for the day ahead. We almost wished it was winter so we could make use of the wood burning stove- this would be such a cosy retreat in the colder months. In the summer the garden becomes a sun trap and is the perfect private space. The quirky decorative pieces and quality furniture and furnishings really make this place feel like home.

Explore the enchanting village of Boscastle in North Cornwall with Beach Retreats.

Out and about

The first thing you should do when arriving in Boscastle is to walk down the length of the harbour walls and take a peak over the cliffs to what’s beyond- you might be lucky enough to catch the gig boats rowing in and out or a fishing boat or hardy kayaker navigating the deep channel. Alfie the dog very much enjoyed a splash in the harbour!

We also took the opportunity to explore the shops and cafes, heading first to the National Trust Visitor’s Centre which has an eye-opening exhibition on the floods of 2004, and an adjoining café with outdoor terrace and delicious cakes, perfect for elevenses. We also took a 10 minute drive to nearby Tintagel to take a look at the ruined castle, commonly thought to be associated with King Arthur. The whole place has an aura of mystery and intrigue due to the associations with Merlin and witchcraft, which spreads all the way back along the coast to Boscastle which is home to the National Witchcraft Museum. We couldn’t resist a visit here when we got back, and it was indeed quite spooky!

 

Another must-do is to head out for a coastal walk on the South West Coast Path. Coast path walks from here can be challenging but you will be rewarded for your efforts with some spectacular scenery. If you’re bringing your four-legged friend make sure to keep them on a lead near the cliff edges. We headed up to the coast watch station on the headland, a 20 minute walk from the harbour heading west towards Tintagel, from which we enjoyed far reaching views before heading back to the village.

If it’s beaches you’re after, head for the nearest secluded bay at Bossiney, just a 10 minute drive away. This secret spot is only accessible at low tide and requires a bit of a hike from the nearest parking spot, but when you make it down to the beach you will be amazed at the unspoilt beauty and private feel- only the intrepid make it here! A little bit further along is Trebarwith Strand, another lesser known spot only accessible at low tide, but well-appointed with a pub, café and surf school. Or you could take a 20 minute drive in the other direction to Widemouth Bay where you can enjoy plenty of golden sand all day long.

Food and drink

Directly opposite the witchcraft museum is the very crooked Harbour Light tea garden, perfect for a cream tea or a pasty lunch amongst the hustle and bustle of the day trippers, or for a more relaxed, away-from-it-all feel you can head to The Riverside Hotel which has a secluded riverside terrace for alfresco eating. Dinner here was a very laid back affair, with lots of fresh, locally caught sea food on the menu. Top-notch friendly service, and dog-friendly in the daytime and out on the terrace too.

There are many other options in Boscastle, including the 16th century Wellington Hotel, Sharon’s Plaice for freshly made take away pizza or fish and chips, The Toby Jug café for a pit stop lunch and traditional Cornish pub The Cobweb.

Looking to travel a bit further away from Boscastle? Check out our top 5 restaurants in Watergate Bay.

Highlights

    • Being 10 steps from the river- Alfie the dog loved it
    • The well-appointed cottage- a real home away from home.
    • The rugged coastal scenery- sitting on the cliff side listening to the waves booming in the sea caves beyond the harbour walls at low tide.

 Book your holiday at Harbourside Cottage with Beach Retreats.

A weekend of surf at Widemouth Bay

Hear how Holly from Beach Retreats got on during her stay at Chi An Mor in Widemouth Bay.

I spent the weekend at Chi An Mor in Widemouth Bay with a group of my good surfer friends. This self-catering property is located just outside of Bude and is home to some of Cornwall’s best surfers and beaches.

We arrived late Friday evening and though it was dark, we could hear the lapping of the waves nearby. After a good night’s sleep and a quick breakfast to refuel, we enjoyed a 50-metre walk to the beach to check the surf.

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

Widemouth is a long beach a couple of miles outside the town of Bude. It’s a popular spot, but there are plenty of peaks to break up the crowds, as well as Black Rock which occasionally serves up a decent wave over the reef. We had some fun surfing at Widemouth, it was small but by surfing on the incoming tide there was a little pulse which we made the most of. We later jumped in the car for s short drive down the road to Bude town centre and a couple more beaches.

As we reached Crooklets Beach, it was clear to see this had a really fun, good-quality beach break with multiple peaks. It breaks through all tides and can handle a decent amount of swell. Certainly one to keep coming back to.

Summerleaze located just around the corner from Crooklets is much more sheltered and closer to the centre of town. There are several peaks making this a good spot when there’s a big swell.

It was very easy to make our way back to Chi An Mor, it really was a great base for our weekend of surf. It was plenty big enough for six of us and all our surf kit, not to mention being so close to the beach. The light-filled property had a contemporary design, three bedrooms with two shower rooms and a family bathroom. Pets are also allowed so no need to leave part of the family at home.

We opted to eat in both nights, but we did treat ourselves to lunch at the Olive Tree, sat outside by the river. Other restaurants you may want to visit are Black Rock Cafe, Widemouth Bay Cafe, The Beach House bar and Trelawney Tea Rooms.

On our last evening at Chi An Mor, we watched the sun drop behind the horizon and built a fire on Widemouth beach – always take the nails out of any wood you intend to burn and wait until the wood has completely burnt through – don’t cover the embers up with sand as someone could walk along whilst it’s still hot.

On our way home we drove along the coastal road and pulled the car in at a few beaches along the way. We jumped in on the right hander at the north end of Constantine and surprisingly found some clean faces despite most of the north coast having messy conditions. We even had some nice spring sunshine to finish off the weekend. All in all a fantastic surfing weekend at Chi An Mor in Widemouth Bay.

Discover our other properties, and read what to expect from a week at Gaia.

Highlights

The variety of beaches to choose from close to Chi An Mor.

The location of the property, being just 50 metres from Widemouth Bay.

The space in the property, big enough for six and all our surf equipment.

Discover our other Widemouth Bay holiday properties or talk to a member of our team on 01637 861 005.

Book your surfing break with Beach Retreats.

11 beaches and Strand Line

Modern wooden property with a pebbled outdoor area at dusk.

Hear how Lowenna from Beach Retreats got on during her stay at Strand Line in Porthcothan, Cornwall.

With 11 beaches to choose from and plenty of coast paths to explore, I couldn’t wait for my weekend in Strand Line with my partner and friends. The nearest beach was Porthcothan, located one mile down the road with its golden sand backed by grassy dunes and a shallow stream running into the sea. Other beaches within easy reach which are worth the short drive are Trevone, Treyarnon, Constantine, Mawgan Porth, Watergate Bay and Bedruthan Steps.

This cosy cabin oozes character and charm with its carefully thought-out rustic interiors that have been hand-selected, foraged or upcycled by the owner Susie Ray. When we arrived at the cabin, we were mesmerized by the attention to detail in every nook and cranny. From the shell chimes and fisherman’s nets in the garden to the rustic furniture and coastal decor inside.

We were pleasantly welcomed with wild flowers and homemade shortbread which went down a treat whilst sitting out on the decking with the fairy lights on and the stars beginning to twinkle.

On our first night, we settled down with a cheese board and a bottle of red. With the fire burning and wine flowing, it was a perfect night in with my partner, before our friends were due to join us the following day. The fully equipped kitchen had everything we needed and more. Ice bucket for the prosecco, multiple boards for the stacks of cheese, wine glasses, prosecco glasses and an extra-large cafetiere ready for our morning brew.

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

Out and About

After an amazing night’s sleep in the super king size bed and its 400 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets, we enjoyed breakfast and a morning coffee outside on the decking. Once our friends arrived, we jumped in the car and drove 10 minutes down the road to our first stop of the day, Treyarnon Bay.

This beach is popular with families and has a lot going on. From dogs running after frisbees, paddleboarders and surfers jumping on their boards, to the hustle and bustle of the beachside YHA Cafe. After sitting on the beach for an hour or two and grabbing an ice cream, we took the coast path around the headland, stopping off to take in the panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Constantine Bay.

With 11 beaches nearby to choose from, it would be rude not to visit another one in the same day. We beach hopped over to the closest beach to Strand Line, Porthcothan Bay. This was my first time visiting this beach and it quickly became one of my favourites.

Here’s why:

The sand dunes and surrounding cliffs shelter the beach from the wind (a big bonus for me).
The rock formations and sea stacks in the ocean are fascinating, we climbed the rocks, checked out the rockpools for sea life and discovered a secret cave.
The South West Coast Path to the left side of the beach led us through a beautiful headland walk. Strolling past the beach and through the kissing gates, we ended up at Trescore Island. This beautiful rocky island is backed by sea pink flowers and leaves a sheltered lagoon at low tide. For those not brave enough to swim with the choppy waves, this is the perfect spot for a relaxing dip.
The little cafe at the top of the beach sold Cornish pasties and beer (delicious).
The BBC Drama Poldark was filmed here. Aidan Turner gallops over the clifftops overlooking Trescore Island.

Food and Drink

The following day once the sea mist had cleared, we headed to Padstow harbour, a 10 minute drive away for a spot of lunch. This picturesque harbour is worth visiting with its cafes, restaurants, pubs, boutique shops and galleries. We decided to stop off at Paul Ainsworth’s Rojano Restaurant, sat in the open top conservatory in the sun. Other restaurants you could try are Paul Ainsworth’s No 6, Prawn on the Lawn and The Olive Tree.

Later after a couple of afternoon tipples, we walked the coast path from Padstow to Trevone beach, where we then caught a cab to Rick Stein’s Cornish Arms pub in St Merryn village, a 20-minute walk from Strand Line cabin. This place is great for local ales and Cornish seafood, so much so, we couldn’t help but dig into a large bowl of Cornish mussels between the four of us.

Fancy staying in Trevone? Check out our holiday properties in Trevone.

If you would rather dine back at Strand Line, take advantage of the rustic kitchen and gas BBQ beautifully hand made in the garden. The plancha grill cooked us prawns, corn on the cob, burgers and sausages for our lunch the following day.

Highlights

The beaches: Being based so close to multiple beaches, coastal walks and amenities. You’ll discover new places every time you visit.

The beds: We all had the best night’s sleep and the comfort of the mattress and sheets was the first topic over breakfast every morning.

The interior design: From the outdoor kitchen and rustic garden walls, to the artwork, lampshades and furniture. So much time, effort and thought has gone into Strand Line, we didn’t want to leave.

Groups: If there is a larger group, Lobster Pot cabin (sleeps 2) is located next door.

Book your holiday at Strand Line with Beach Retreats.

Interested in our other properties? Check out our blog on how it was to spend the weekend at the Porth Beach House in Porth.

Whitsand Bay – A forgotten corner of Cornwall we won’t forget

Hear how Beach Retreat’s Simon got on during his stay in Brackenbank, a cool chalet perched on the cliffs above Whitsand Bay, Cornwall.

Whitsand Bay is home to an eclectic mix of beach shacks and cabins and is often described as ‘the forgotten corner of Cornwall’, so when my wife and I set off for our visit to Brackenbank from our home in Mawgan Porth on the rather better known North Cornish Coast, we were both curious to find out why.

Fancy staying in a holiday retreat with a log burner? Check out our cottages with a log burner for a cosy getaway.

Having left in the rain we were pleasantly surprised to arrive to blue skies and clear panoramic sea views. The coast road sent us past a unique blend of beach shacks and cabins, which together form an elegant patchwork that covers the cliffside. Amongst these we found Brackenbank, with it’s stunning sea views and atmospheric sounds of the sea. The cabin sits in a spectacular position well hidden from its neighbours, with views so unobstructed you feel like you’re on a boat sat out at sea.

Stay at Brackenbank in Whitsand Bay.

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

There’s a beautiful private outdoor entertaining space with table and benches, a modern barbecue, sun loungers and a particularly inviting outdoor sea view shower. Inside it’s a light, white open-plan space with a scandi-inspired paired back style. A cosy seating area in the corner complete with a wood burning stove is perfect for relaxing, while a large dining table an ideal spot for watching the small fishing boats and larger naval vessels criss-crossing the water below. The cabin can sleep up to five in two bedrooms.

Out and about…

There’s a superb beach to explore directly below Brackenbank which is accessible down a grass path and at low tide provides a long stretch of sand to easily walk off breakfast or lunch. The villages of Kingsand and Cawsand are perfect for exploring and are both only a very short car ride away (under 15 minutes).

Further along the coast at the end of the Rame Penisula, you can walk up to St Michael’s Chapel on Rame Head, which is well worth a visit as you are rewarded with superb views from the top. We highly recommend catching the ferry which leaves the beach at Cawsand every few hours in high season and takes you on a scenic leisurely cruise across to the Barbican in Plymouth.

Eating out

Over the course of our weekend we managed to eat out twice, as well as cook for ourselves very easily in the well-equipped kitchen. The View Restaurant was a great spot for dinner and is located just 3 minutes away by car, or 10 minutes on foot from Brackenbank. The Cliff Top Cafe was also great for breakfast or lunch and again is within easy walking distance with beautiful views down the coast to Rame Head.

If you have more time during your stay at Brackenbank, give The Devonport Inn a try, for delicious food, while The Old Bakery is best for coffee and cakes, both can be found in Kingsand nearby.

Weekend highlights

Waking up and watching the early morning surfers and sailors.
Reading a book outside in the sun, with only the sounds of the sea and the sight of the wildlife swooping past to distract us.
Showering alfresco in the outdoor sea view shower.

Explore a scenic walk through Whitsand Bay, discovering its rugged beauty, expansive sandy beaches, and panoramic coastal views along the Cornish coastline.

Book your stay at Brackenbank, Whitsand Bay

Why you should choose a Beach Retreats property

Award-winning Gloucestershire blogger Thrifty Mumma tells us why you should choose Beach Retreats for a relaxing and restorative family holiday.

Thrifty Mumma recently enjoyed a stay at our Mawgan Porth property, Skyline. Skyline sleeps 14 guests, accepts pets and is just 500 metres from the golden sanded beach. Here’s how she got on:

Famous for its dramatic coastline, picture-perfect harbours and breathtaking beaches, Cornwall has long been a desirable destination for worldwide travellers and UK holidaymakers alike.

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

As a new parent, I wanted the reassurance of a UK staycation but I also required somewhere which could relax and restore us all as a family. Having enjoyed countless Cornish holidays and as a graduate of University College Falmouth, I was keen to return to the beautiful county that has stolen a piece of my heart.

I wanted to explore a part of Cornwall that was new to me and I searched for a letting company which could meet my needs in terms of location and luxury.

Beach Retreats became the natural choice offering an award winning website, knowledgeable, accommodating staff and a varied property portfolio, all of which are beachside.

We were immediately enticed by Skyline; a spacious, modern property nestled in the hamlet of Mawgan Porth with the wow factor of a large balcony and stunning sea view.

On arrival at the property the reality lived up to the pictures I had seen online and I simply fell in love!

Able to comfortably sleep 14, the gorgeous house offers large bedrooms with luxurious beds and bathrooms, wonderful waterfall showers and whirlpool baths. In the Master, our beautifully appointed en-suite bathroom had a deep set jacuzzi bath with a large window complete with a view down the valley to the sea. I indulged in a dip and couldn’t help but relax as the warm bubbles soothed my skin and the vista simply melted my cares away.

However, the star of the show at Skyline is the living space. The airy and sophisticated lounge is glass fronted with a balcony outlook and offers unrivalled views of the sea as the waves roll in. The comfortable sofas allowed us all to sit and watch the surfers as they caught the final few waves of the day. Skyline even boasts an outdoor shower and wetsuit store for the surfers in the family.

The well-equipped kitchen has a large wooden table so each and every guest has a seat at mealtimes and, as night falls, the thoughtful light installations allow the house to feel both cosy and contemporary. Skyline is awash with coastal accents from abstract artwork and driftwood mirrors to deep turquoise vases and plush coral cushions.

Importantly for us, the house was packed full of thoughtful family friendly features. In fact, the high-quality travel cot, highchair, baby swing and fully equipped playroom made Skyline the perfect home from home.

And, as with all Beach Retreats properties, the proximity to the seashore was impressive and allowed us to easily walk to the water in a matter of minutes.

Mawgan Porth beach is a sumptuous sandy cove backed by marram covered sand dunes and enclosed by cliffs. When the tide is out the sand stretches for miles and you can build sandcastles and explore rock pools and caves to your heart’s content. The beach even has its own resident waterfall!

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

From the beach we made our way up and along the coastal path with the baby carrier – the views across the shimmering Atlantic made the climb worthwhile and we all felt refreshed with our lungs full of sea air.

Mawgan Porth has a number of local amenities including The Beach Box Café, The Catch Seafood restaurant and The Merrymoor Inn as well as the village stores. After the long drive, this meant we were able to park our cars in Skyline’s two designated spaces for the duration of our stay.

Within walking distance there are also two state-of-the-art Spas – Bedruthan Hotel and The Scarlet Hotel. During our stay, we enjoyed a ‘Restore Me’ Spa day at Bedruthan Hotel. The treatments were wonderfully relaxing and we took advantage of the sea view spa facilities before devouring a delicious lunch at on-site Wild Café. Afterwards, we sampled the unique open air sensory spa garden which takes you on a journey of hot and cold experiences to enliven your senses. As we sat around the campfire in our fluffy robes sipping herbal tea the first few flakes of snow began to flutter around us.

In no time at all we were back at the house and even in the unexpected and undulating March snowfall Skyline remained a warm, cosy and welcoming retreat for us all. I’ve never stayed somewhere so beautiful before – what better place than Skyline to be snowed in!

So, if you are in need of a relaxing, restorative retreat then look no further. Thank you for our blissful stay Skyline, we can’t wait to book our next Beach Retreat!

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

More about Jamie Collier

Gloucestershire born and bred, Jamie lives in a leafy Cotswold village with her husband and baby daughter. Cornwall holds a special place in her heart – it is where she spends many family holidays and she is also a graduate of University College Falmouth. When she’s not looking after her family or writing an article, you can usually find her on the beach. You can subscribe to her dedicated blog at thriftymummathriftybubba.com and follow her on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter too.

We love Windrush

What is the most important criteria for choosing where to stay on a Cornish holiday? The views? The location? The interior? Local amenities? We stayed at Windrush, Holywell Bay and it puts this criteria into focus.

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

There is a degree of smugness when we stayed at Windrush. The position in the middle of the village is a few hundred metres from the beach, meaning no driving to the car park, queueing to get in and paying. So it was so easy to step out of the front door and wander down.

Windrush, Holywell Bay

And what a beach! We loved exploring Holywell Bay as it opens out into a wide expanse of sand, framed by cliffs on both sides. There’s space for everyone too, from dog walkers, families, surfers and photographers making the most of the continually changing landscape.

Fancy staying in Holywell Bay? Check out our luxury holiday lets in Holywell Bay.

Holywell Bay’s USP must be the dunes that rise above the beach and its criss-crossed paths which rise and dip with foot and paw prints. Truly somewhere to lose yourself.

Discover six stunning spots to watch the sunrise in Cornwall, each offering panoramic views and unforgettable moments along the coast.

On the beach itself, the tide covers mussel-encrusted rocks and crags and caves to explore, pools of seawater waiting to be replenished. We didn’t find the secret caves accessible at low tide, but there is still so much to stimulate the senses – this is true escapism.

Elsewhere in the village we found the 13th Century Treguth Inn, complete with a thatched roof and traditional pub menu. It’s only 100 metres down from Windrush so couldn’t be more convenient. On the edge of the beach, St Pirans Inn is also a short walk and open seasonally from mid-March.

So eating out is covered, but for eating in and supplies, we jumped in the car back up to the neighbouring village of Cubert where the convenience store is well stocked with everything you need. It’s a mile up the road, just two minutes away with long opening hours and friendly staff.

Windrush

We found Holywell Bay to be the perfect destination to escape to, the opposite of the everyday rush.

But what about Windrush? It’s a four-bedroom, split level detached house which has been beautifully upgraded by interior designer Nicola O’Mara to deliver comfort and character.

The dual-aspect living room was the focal point of the house, complete with open fire, patio doors out to the garden and feature pieces to savour. By day it’s light and bright, by evening it’s warm and cosy with subtle lighting.

We decided on a pizza making competition, for some evening fun (with a four-way tie for the victory) followed by drinks in front of the open fire (the convenience store in Cubert sells bags of logs).

Elsewhere the four bedrooms, two with en-suite, another with access to a jack and jill bathroom, feel separate away from each other, so everyone has their own space. Two bedrooms have a sea view – that’s the first thing you do when awake, check the view.

Favourite space? That’s the summer house, light and bright and stylishly furnished – the perfect spot to finally finish that book. The garden as a whole has been divided into sections, grass and patio with a corner seating area and a further terrace with seating. You’ll also find a gate leading down to the beach.

Favourite part of the weekend? Waking up to the sea views is worth savouring, as is exploring the beach. Windrush gave us the perfect mix of contemporary comfort and position to make the most of Holywell Bay.

Check availability and book Windrush.

Top five surf-friendly holidays

The autumn swells have arrived in Cornwall and that means warm waves, kinder weather and fewer people on the beach. Jump in the car last minute and hit the surf in style staying in one our surf-friendly properties with surf lockers, surf showers and the waves on your doorstep.

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

The Beach, Porthtowan

Wake up to the sound of waves at The Beach, a cool and contemporary new collection of apartments overlooking the surf at Porthtowan. Check the surf from your bedroom window before grabbing your board and heading down the private path to the beach (before breakfast if that’s how you roll). Lock up your boards and beach toys in the secure ‘surf’ store and then while away the day on your balcony until your next session.

Take a look at our properties at The Beach.

Take a look and book our self-catering properties at Porthtowan, or talk to a member of our team on 01637 861 005.

Zinc, Fistral

A short walk from Zinc and you’ll find yourself standing on Fistral Beach, the UK’s surf capital. The world famous beach draws thousands of visitors and surfers each year but come autumn there are plenty of waves to catch. Check the conditions from your private balcony at Fistral Surf or light the barbecue on the terrace at Zinc 14 as you watch the swell roll-in and surfers pass by.

Take a look at Zinc 14.
Take a look at Fistral Surf.

Waves, Watergate Bay

Not only are you 100m away from one of Cornwall’s premier watersport destinations at Waves – a collection of modern one, two and three bed apartments – but one of Cornwall’s favourite foodie destinations too. Waves benefits from surf lockers and a shower area, meaning you can surf your heart out at Watergate Bay and spend the day on the beach before refuelling at The Beach Hut, Zacry’s or Wax restaurants to name a few.

Take a look at Waves.

Coast, Porth

All that separates Coast from the sand at Porth is a lovely private terrace and a stretch of lawn. Bodyboarders, beginner surfers and families can spend hours in Porth’s gentle waves before progressing to the more powerful surf at Watergate Bay or Fistral in either direction up the road. If you like fresh, contemporary interiors with a light and spacious feel, with a private lockable surf store in the car park for surfboards and beach equipment, then Coast is for you.

Take a look at 2 Coast.
Take a look at Beachside.

Oceangate, Fistral

Head to Fistral’s southern end for a quieter slice of the action. At Oceangate, a contemporary and sleek new development of apartments, you can turn up the volume with great surf out front or take some downtime at the tranquil Gannel Estuary a short walk behind you. Fistral’s hub of shops and restaurants including Rick Stein, The Fish House Fistral and The Stable wait at the other end of the beach, or be lazy and kick back at home in front of the view.

Take a look at 4 Oceangate.
Take a look at 17 Oceangate.

Dive into the exciting world of alternative surf activities in Cornwall and discover new ways to enjoy the waves.

24 hours in Port Isaac with the Nathan Outlaw experience

Delectable food, historic harbour, Doc Martin and a home from home in the centre of it all…

So when you only have 24 hours in Port Isaac where do you begin? With the tide in, boats bobbing and the sun shining, we headed straight to the picture-perfect working harbour.

Boasting clear waters on a sunny day, narrow winding streets and white-washed fisherman’s houses, we took the coast path up the side of the cliffs, towards the iconic ITV’s Doc Martin house (perfect place for a selfie with the Doc).

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

Experiencing Outlaw’s

After a quick tipple at the Golden Lion, we headed back up the hill towards our Beach Retreat holiday home ‘Lobber’, where we were more than ready for our seafood-tasting menu at the fantastic Restaurant Nathan Outlaw, conveniently perched directly opposite.

Recently voted the UK’s Best Restaurant by the 2017 Good Food Guide, Nathan Outlaw is renowned for his tasty sea-to-plate dishes with an extra twist.

The First Course

To kick things off we started with the wine flight (don’t mind if we do). The fabulous wine connoisseur gave us his expert knowledge on where and how each wine was made and a little history behind the families that maintained the vineyards.

Here he pours two glasses of the Sparkling Koshu 2014 from Japan.

Ensuring the wine complimented the food, our first course was the Cured Monkfish, Tomato and Sea Purslane and it certainly hit the spot.

Nathan’s simple and honest approach to seafood cookery mixed with the careful thought given to every tail and scale that enters his kitchen, really does provide a memorable dining experience.

Second Course

My favourite course, number 2 was the Gurnard and Porthilly Sauce, a dish that you will never want to end. Crabs are caught locally at Porthilly and then made into a delicious bisque like sauce. This sauce has everyone talking on TripAdvisor.

Accompanied by a glass of Capellania Blanco Reserva 2012, Marques de Murrieta, Rioja, Spain.

Main Course

Onto the mains and we certainly don’t doubt Nathan Outlaw’s ‘King of Fish’ title. The Cornish Turbot, with a side of tenderstem and roast onion sauce with potato.

Dessert

If you love your sweet food then this is the course for you! Strawberries and sugared shortbread biscuit in a delicous jelly with elderflower ice. Pour the ice onto the strawberries and you’ll be pleasantly surprised how much extra taste it adds.

Last course…

Cornish Jack Cheese (who doesn’t love cheese), Beetroot and Walnut Tart! As if things couldn’t get any better. The perfect end to a perfect meal. This course was wonderfully combined with a glass of Banyuls Reserva NV, Domaine La Tour Vieille,Roussillon from France.

Intrigued about how all this amazing food was prepped, we headed into the kitchen to get a little sneak peek as the chefs work.

Nathan Outlaw currently holds four Michelin stars across his empire of exquisite seafood restaurants.

There’s our dessert again, we couldn’t possibly eat anymore…

What do you do after a big meal when on the coast? Get outside and walk off your dinner with some of the most beautiful and rugged Cornish views. When leaving Restaurant Nathan Outlaw, head down the hill in the opposite direction towards Port Isaac’s sister port, Port Gaverne.

Enjoy a drink at the Port Gaverne Hotel and Restaurant before heading back up the hill. Sit on the bench half way up the hill and take in the inspiring views.

Much to our surprise, we found ourselves in the middle of the Port Isaac Carnival on our way back to Lobber.

It’s pleasant to see how much the locals come together and welcome visitors from near and far to join in with their celebrations.

Book your self-catering stay in Port Isaac with Beach Retreats.

Fancy looking at other areas of the North Coast? Explore our holiday properties in Padstow, just a short drive away from Port Isaac and Polzeath.

Learn more about Padstow in our blog all about how to enjoy a week in Padstow, and explore what it has to offer.