Whitsand Bay – A forgotten corner of Cornwall we won’t forget
18th May 2018
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.
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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.
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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.
