Author: gloversure

Winter Hearty Dishes by the Sea | Cornwall

Warm up with Paul Harwood’s hearty dishes that are perfect for winter nights by the beach.

With views across the ocean from his kitchen, chef Paul Harwood naturally fuses his cooking style to echo his surroundings and the seasons. Having started his career under the wing of Rick Stein, Harwood opened The Fish House in 2014. The fact that the tables nudging Fistral Beach are booked up throughout the year, is a testament to Harwood’s success, and his role at the forefront of Cornwall’s foodie revolution.

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

It’s a windy autumn day with storm clouds scudding across the waves, and Harwood’s menu is changing to embrace wholesome, hearty dishes made from ingredients plucked from Cornwall’s land and sea. “As the weather turns, I’m angling away from lighter dishes and summer salads, towards the sort of dishes to warm your cockles after a blustery beach walk or a surf,” Harwood explains.

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

If an ingredient is in season, Harwood really tries to make the most of it. “When wild garlic is in abundance in spring, I use it widely across my dishes. At the moment there are huge numbers of mackerel in the bay, and my chefs have been out catching it daily. We’ve turned this into a popular Indian dish, served with dahl, poppadoms, kachumba, coconut sambal and raita salad.

As we move into autumn and winter, it’s mushrooms that dominate the upcoming menu. “I love using mixed, wild mushrooms from the West Country – such as girolles and ceps,” he says. A seasonal favourite that many locals return for is the hake, mash potato and wild mushroom sauce. “The dried, wild mushrooms are steeped in hot water and smoked whisky, intensifying the flavour. I use this and a mix of caramelised veg to make an intense, flavourful sauce – a really dark, mushroom fumé that gets poured over fresh, wild mushrooms and served with the hake. People come here just for that dish. It’s perfect after a chilly day on the beach.”

Like in most of Paul’s dishes, the ingredients are all local. “I’m in the category of trying to get people to eat fresh, local fish and enjoy what’s caught on the doorstep. The hake is from St Ives. People here tend to steer towards cod and haddock, but hake is a beautiful fish – softer than cod, with a deeper flavour, and firm enough to keep its colour,” he explains.

The variety of seafood on the menu really depends on what the fishermen catch. “In summer there’s lots of bream, red mullet and turbot – I try to get stuff off the day boats, a lot of which comes from Looe. Lobsters and crabs come from the Newquay fishermen, landed just a pebble’s throw away in the harbour,” Harwood tells me. However, while the notion of serving a whole crab is quite romantic, he admits that it can also be quite a messy dish, and there’s not that much meat on a crab to fill you up. “We prefer to serve a roasted hot shellfish dish, with a mix of mussels, scallops, prawns and crab claw… cooked in chilli, garlic and lemon juice. It’s a real favourite and much more warming than a classic fruits de mer.”

As the seas get bigger and less fishermen venture out in the more dangerous winter swells, Harwood explains that the choice of seafood becomes slimmer and prices are nudged higher. However, this doesn’t limit the rustic dishes on offer at The Fish House. Chowder is a favourite that’s back on the menu – made with prawns, cod, smoked bacon and cayenne pepper. Served with a chunk of homemade focaccia, a steaming bowl of chowder is a great dish for lunch beside the wild, winter waves.

Harwood has travelled extensively in search of surf and the finest regional recipes: “When I use recipes from a particular region, I try to stay true to its origins. For example, if I do Moules Mariniere, I stick to how they make it in Brittany, using butter not oil, and just white wine and parsley, without the cream – that’s a very British addition, which makes it rich and heavy.” Having spent a lot of time in Sri Lanka, he tried numerous prawn curries to get to best ingredients and recipe, which he replicates in the most traditional way, by making a powder. As a result, his Sri Lankan prawn curry is also a popular warm and spicy winter dish.

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

A firm believer in using local ingredients where possible, Harwood also relies on seasonal vegetables to bring the flavours of the seasons into his food. So as the chill seeps into the sand and the sea, it’s the root vegetables that come into the kitchen each day – fennel, leeks, butternut, cabbages, parsnips and celeriac. Whether you hit Fistral Beach for a surf, a shoreline stroll or a wild winter swim, you’ll find The Fish House open seven days a week for lunch and dinner,* so come in and fuel up on Harwood’s hearty winter dishes by the waves.

Browse our beach locations and keep an eye on our special offers page to book your foodie retreat by the sea this winter.

Book your Beach Retreats self-catering holiday at Fistral. 

Cottages in Cornwall with Log Burners

log burner whitsand bay

Hunker down this winter in front of a log fire watching the ocean from the comfort of your sofa

There’s nothing quite like sitting around a crackling fire, watching the waves roll in and having some well deserved family time with your loved ones. Beach Retreats offer a variety of holiday homes from cosy cottages for two and large houses for friends and extended family, all with log fires. Here are some of our favourites.

Brackenbank, Whitsand Bay

Sleeps 5

Perched on Tregonhawke Cliff, high above the beach and sea below, Brackenbank is a chic chalet made for romantic escapes and family holidays. The beach below is a wide, dramatic arc of coast, perfect for those blustery winter walks.

The open plan living space within the property has stunning panoramic views across Whitsand Bay, perfect for curling up in front of the fire on a stormy winters day.

Book a self-catering holiday at Brackenbank, Whitsand Bay.

Panorama, Mawgan Porth

Sleeps 12

When the nights draw in, make the most of the stunning log burner at our Mawgan Porth luxury bolthole. Set in a sweeping bay on north Cornwall’s rugged coast, Panorama fuses haute design and stylish interiors with beach inspired features to create the perfect home from home for families, small groups and design-aficionados.

With a bird’s eye view of Mawgan Porth, the cliff top abode boasts a south-facing glass facade, inviting in copious amounts of natural light, while offering breath-taking panoramic views from the top floor open-plan living area. Take a bracing walk down to the beach, just 800 metres away.

Book your self-catering holiday at Panorama.

Windrush, Holywell Bay

Sleeps 8

What’s better than the sound, smell and warming glow of an open fire after an afternoon walk on a Cornish beach? Guests staying at Windrush are just 500 metres from Holywell Bay, as seen on screen in the latest BBC One Poldark series

On the beach, you can explore the fascinating grotto-like Holywell Cave with its calcium deposits, and at low tide, discover an old Argentinian coaster just offshore. Wander the sand dunes, some of which are 60 feet in height, and if you’re traveling with your other half, the dunes also provide a romantic setting to watch the sun go down.

Book your self-catering holiday at Windrush.

Lizard, Widemouth Bay

Sleeps 6

With a beach as your back garden (literally), Lizard in Widemouth Bay is the ideal home to relax and unwind in this winter. In a quiet location with the beach right outside, Lizard gives you truly exceptional beach living.

Lizard is located at Atlantic View, a small development of six eco-houses which have been designed to combine state-of-the-art green technology with contemporary luxury and beautiful interiors.

Book your self-catering holiday at Lizard.

Harbourside Cottage, Boscastle

Sleeps 2

A cosy cottage for 2, Harbourside Cottage is located in the centre of Boscastle opposite the river, just a 300 metre walk to where the river meets the ocean.

The pace of life in this pretty village is blissfully relaxed, so for those arriving in the winter, there’s nothing better than enjoying a romantic evening for two in front of a crackling fire with a bottle of two.

Book your Harbourside Cottage self-catering holiday.

Rockpooling Checklist

Top tips for Rock Pooling in Cornwall.

Your Beach Retreats guide to all there is to know about rock pooling in Cornwall.

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

When to go

You can rockpool all year round in Cornwall. Wrap up in winter and pick a sheltered shore, or visit in summer when marine life is flourishing.

Where to go

Watergate Bay, Porth and Whipsiderry, Newtrain Bay near Trevone and Trevaunance Cove in St Agnes are all great spots for rockpooling, but any beach with a rocky shoreline is good. Our harbours are also brilliant for crabbing.

Check the weather

The best rockpooling happens on calm, sunny days at low tide when parts of the shore normally covered in water are exposed. Plan your visit by checking a local tide table online and move inland as the tide pushes in.

What to pack

Many people think you need a net to go rockpooling, but you don’t. One of the best ways to enjoy the shore is to peer into a rockpool and wait. With patience you’ll be treated to a natural display of the fascinating and tough creatures that live here. If you do use a bucket be careful not to overcrowd it with creatures. They can overheat and run out of oxygen.

Walk to Watergate Bay

Follow the seashore code

    • Respect the seashore creatures, handle them as little as possible and always put them back where you find them.
    • Take photos home, not animals.
    • Put overturned rocks back carefully as you found them.
    • Take any rubbish home with you.
    • Keep safe on the seashore, check the tides and keep away from the cliffs and waves.

Top Tips

Look for a shore with small rocks covered in seaweed and start by investigating underneath the water’s surface. Lift the rocks carefully and you may find crabs, cushion starfish and even snake pipefish and Cornish sucker fish.

Watch your fingers

Take care when picking up crabs! If you do want to handle one, use your index finger and hold it down by pressing onto the center of its shell – you’ll have plenty of time to get your fingers around the sides behind the claws. Grip it firmly. You’re less likely to get pinched holding a crab like this. Don’t be tempted to pick up a crab by putting one finger underneath.

Once you have understood all the above, you’re ready to begin your rockpooling checklist. Here are 10 creatures to look out for.

    1. Cornish Sucker Fish -Look under rocks in pools close to the shore. It has modified fins that act like a suction pad.
    1. Broad Clawed Porcelain Crab – A small hairy crab that lives upside down beneath rocks on the low-tide shoreline.
    1. Worm Pipefish – Related to the seahorse this worm-like creature is actually a fish
    1. Snakelocks Anemome – Don’t be fooled by its pretty fluorescent-tipped stinging tentacles – it’s a carnivorous predator.
    1. Common Shore Crab – These small shore crabs have incredible colours which they lose as they grow older.
    1. Star Ascidian – Beautiful, small and squidgy star-shaped sea squirt colonies found on the rocks and seaweed.
    1. Montagu’s Blenny – A small warm-water fish with a cockatoo crest on its head.
    1. Celtic Sea Slug – Also known as a liquorice sea slug, it is often found on the rocks between Holywell and Polzeath.
    1. Blue Rayed Limpet – A tiny but beautiful limpet that only lives on seaweed – not rocks.
    1. Giant Goby – Only found in the south, they can grow up to 29cm in length. If you find one please put it back and report it to Cornwall Wildlife Trust – they are a protected species.

Dive into the fascinating world of marine life with our Rockpools Revealed guide, and discover the hidden wonders along the shoreline.

Book your self-catering holiday with Beach Retreats.

Padstow Christmas Festival

Embrace the festive season with a trip to Padstow’s annual Christmas Festival

 

See this Cornish fishing village come alive with celebrity chefs, culinary delights and festive fun. Padstow Christmas Festival returns Thursday 5 to Sunday 9 December 2019. Book your winter or christmas break online or call our team on 01637 861 005.


All images ©James Ram

The free-to-attend spectacle has grown into one of the largest food festivals in Cornwall, with 45,000 visitors expected across the four days.

This year sees 65 separate cookery demonstrations, workshops and masterclasses happening across two stages, with culinary names from Rick Stien, Paul Ainsworth, Nathan Outlaw and James Martin confirmed to attend.

If that’s got you hungry then there will be over 100 festival pop-up food stalls running alongside Padstow’s many restaurants.

But it’s not all about the food.

The popular Christmas market will also be open from midday Thursday with stalls featuring arts, crafts, food and drink producers from across the south west. Padstow’s shops and galleries will be open for extended hours offering special discounts throughout the four days.

Yuletide entertainment thoughout the weekend includes the arrival of Santa on his horse drawn Victorian bus, a spectacular fireworks display, live music, carol concerts and a lantern parade. Join hundreds of festival-goers for Santa’s Fun Run in aid of Cornwall Hospice Care. Runners dressed as Father Christmas will be accompanied by cycling Santa’s who will arrive by bike along the Camel Trail.

Chef Paul Ainsworth says: “Padstow is a very special place and Christmas is a very special time. I urge everyone to add this to their ‘one of life’s experiences’ list as it’s something that I promise you will fall in love with, and give you the Christmas spirit that little bit earlier.”

A full schedule of events can be found on the website.

www.padstowchristmasfestival.co.uk

Book your winter or christmas break online or call our team on 01637 861 005.

5 Romantic Cottages in Cornwall

lobster pot

Walk hand in hand along dramatic beaches and write your names in the sand.

Cornwall is filled to the brim with romance, no matter what time of year. Its white sand beaches, fiery sunsets and a magical coastline, provide you with all the ingredients for a romantic break with your loved one. Below we give you 5 beachside properties that are sure to get you feeling the love this Valentine’s Day.

See all our romantic cottages in Cornwall.

Looking for a relaxing romantic getaway? Explore our cottages with hot tubs for the ultimate luxurious experience.

Lobster Pot, Porthcothan

A cosy cabin made for two, Lobster Pot is set off the beaten track, offering a unique and romantic hideaway for couples. You will truly unwind at this tranquil retreat, with its large wood burner for cosy nights in, twinkling fairy lights on the decking and its stunning coastal interior.

Porthcothan beach is one of Cornwall’s secret bays, providing an ‘away from it all’ feeling for you and your loved one. Pack up a picnic and spend the day in the sun, or if you’re feeling more active, walk the coast path to the picturesque Padstow harbour, where you’ll find an abundance of cafes, shops and restaurants including the popular Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant and Paul Ainsworth at No6.

Find out more about Lobster Pot.

 

The Shell Seeker, Mousehole

Perfectly placed in the heart of Mousehole in west Cornwall, The Shell Seeker is a Grade II former fishermen’s cottage with a beautiful interior design over three floors. Oozing with romance and relaxation with its crackling log fire and beautiful roll top bath, The Shell Seeker boasts original features including beamed ceilings, a granite hearth, flagstone flooring and stained glass window, all with a contemporary twist.

While out and about, guests can perch on the harbour wall with a picnic, spend the day on the beach, or watch the fishermen’s boats bobbing on the horizon. Mousehole’s cobbled narrow streets and yellow lichened fishermen’s houses huddle together, making this a stunning location to visit.

Find out more about The Shell Seeker.

 

Bijou, Rock

If you’re looking for a room with a view then this retreat will spoil you. With its windows pointing out across pretty Camel Estuary, Bijou is the perfect place to sit back and relax, watching boats and paddle boarders on the Padstow waters from the comfort of your own bespoke apartment. Its prime position in the centre of Rock and its spectacular sea views from every room, make this the perfect retreat for couples.

Known for its array of sophisticated eateries, Rock is home to No.1 Rock Road, Nathan Outlaw’s Mariner’s Rock, Rock Inn, Rock Sailing Club, The Dining Club and the very popular Blue Tomato located directly next door. The quaint fishing village of Padstow offers Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant, Paul Ainsworth’s No 6 or Rojano’s in the square.

Find out more about Bijou.

 

Harbourside Cottage, Boscastle

Cuddle-up together in a cosy fisherman’s cottage, nestled between two headlands in the heart of Boscastle in Cornwall. Harbourside Cottage sleeps 2 guests with lovely views of the river and the headland towards the sea. Thoughtfully renovated to retain lots of period features, the cottage boasts a wood burning stove, deep slate-lined window recesses and original beams.

For a romantic stroll, wander along the riverside towards the historic harbour where the river meets the ocean and watch the waves roll in. Mesmerised by the beauty of the harbour, explore the ancient museum of witchcraft and magic and become spellbound by stories and exhibitions.

Find out more about Harbourside Cottage.

 

32 Dunes, Perranporth

32 Dunes sleeps 2 and is just 10 metres from the golden sands of Perranporth beach on Cornwall’s rugged north coast. Enjoy the large patio and superb sea views while you dine alfresco, walk the coast path to St Agnes and Wheal Coates Mine or enjoy a candlelit dinner at The Summer House while watching the sun go down.

Other Perranporth restaurants include the Watering Hole located directly on the beach itself, Del Mar Italian and Alcatraz which we hear is great for cocktails.

Find out more about 32 Dunes.

Alternatively, check out our other holiday lets in Perranporth.

Book your romantic break with Beach Retreats.

Discover some of the best way to spend Valentine’s Day in Cornwall.

Autumnal Stays in Cornwall

godrevy matt jessop 1000

Autumnal Escapes

As we begin to fall into autumn and ponder how summer seemed to slip by so quickly, we showcase some of our favourite properties perfect for taking a step back and enjoying the slower pace of life. Throw on a chunky knit and ramble along a quiet beach. Forage along the berry-studded hedgerows. Sip on something bubbly beneath the starriest night sky imaginable.

Wychwood Lodge, sleeps 8, Bude

For a holiday home like no other, Wychwood Lodge is an outstanding detached house, set within an acre of glorious gardens, accessed along a private driveway in the village of Poughill, 1.5 miles outside of Bude. Surrounded by gorgeous woodland you’ll no doubt enjoy exploring the gardens as the golden leaves crunch beneath you. Relax in the outdoor hot tub, leave the kids to play in the children’s games room or ramble along the south west coast path past Bude’s fantastic selection of beaches.

Find out more about Wychwood Lodge.

 

The Penthouse at Coast, sleeps 8, Porth

Wake up on the beach and enjoy a crisp autumnal walk from your doorstep. The Penthouse at Coast oozes with luxury with its large balcony, four bedrooms and contemporary open plan living area. Grab your kayaks and paddleboard along the family-friendly beach. Dine at one of Newquay’s fantastic restaurants offering the best of our local ingredients or catch one of north Cornwall’s show stopping sunsets from the sofa.

Find out more about The Penthouse at Coast.

 

Leeward House, sleeps 7, St Agnes

If there was a house designed for autumn it would be Leeward House in St Agnes. Set in woodlands just above Trevaunance Cove in St Agnes, Leeward House delivers contemporary living on the coast. It’s a serene location, surrounded by tranquil woodland, away from the tourists, but close to inspiring coastal walks and St. Agnes village. Walk to nearby Chapel Porth and Wheal Coates mine where you’ll be blown away by a display of autumnal colours

Find out more about Leeward House.

 

Samphire Cottage, sleeps 4, Widemouth Bay

Nestled in a quiet area just a five minute drive from Widemouth Bay, Samphire Cottage boasts uninterrupted views over rolling hills, a pretty walk down to Millook beach and an incredible sense of space in the garden and beyond. Get cosy in front of the grand open fire, play an autumnal game of hide and seek in the garden, enjoy a bracing walk along the shoreline at Widemouth Bay.

Find out more about Samphire Cottage.

 

3 The Bay, sleeps six, Cawsand

Brand new to the Beach Retreats portfolio, 3 The Bay is a contemporary, interior designed apart sleeping six guests above Cawsand beach in south east Cornwall. Perfect for adventurous souls, the south west coast path is on its doorstep leading guests to nearby Looe, Whitsand Bay and its closest neighbour Kingsand. Get cosy in front of a fire in one of the many traditional Cornish pubs or watch the wild swimmers brave the water on their morning swim.

Find out more about 3 The Bay.

 

7 Whitehouses, sleeps 8, Watergate Bay

Sip on steaming hot cocoa at The Beach Hut, pull on your wellies ready for a rockpooling adventure and ramble along the south west coast path to Bedruthan Steps full of legend and history. 7 Whitehouse is a three bedroom, first floor apartment to sleep up to eight people. It comes with two private balconies with sea views and has a cosy living area perfect for cosy nights in.

Find out more about 7 Whitehouse.

 

30 Dunes, sleeps 4, Perranporth

Chuck on your chunky knit and dine alfreso at 30 Dunes, perfectly positioned directly opposite Perranporth beach in Cornwall. This brand new apartment is part of The Dunes collection and is a beautifully furnished ground floor apartment with contemporary interiors to the highest standard using local artwork from Whistlefish Gallery. Indulge in a hot chocolate at the Summer House restaurant next door, watch the surfers ride the waves at sunset or enjoy a romantic walk along the clifftops.

Find out more about 30 Dunes.

 

Chi Lowen, sleeps 10, Fistral

When staying at Fistral you#ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to cosy pubs, seafood restaurants and clifftop walks. Chi Lowen sleeps up to 10 guests and is just a five minute walk from the world famous Fistral beach. Dine alfresco in the garden or take in the ever changing ocean views from the first floor open plan living and dining area.

Find out more about Chi Lowen.

 

The Penthouse 4 The Bay, sleeps 8, Cawsand

Swing open the balcony doors and breathe in the salty Cornish air at The Penthouse 4 The Bay. New to the Beach Retreats portfolio, this stunning apart over two floors boasts a large private terrace, stunning bedrooms with modern Velux windows that open up into a mini roof terrace and is located directly on Cawsand beach. Let four-legged friends wag their tails on the beach below and soak up the autumn sunshine as you discover nearby villages and towns.

Take the 3D tour and look around.

Find out more about 4 The Bay.

Find the perfect self-catering holiday with Beach Retreats. 

The Best Seafood Restaurants in Cornwall

The Fish House Fistral

Hailed as one of the UK’s top foodie destinations, Cornwall is home to an abundance of restaurants serving fresh fish flipped straight from rod to pan.

Here are our top places to dine on the ocean’s bounty:

The Fish House, Fistral Beach, Newquay

Nudging the waves on the surfing mecca of Fistral beach, The Fish House is the sort of restaurant that’s putting Newquay on the foodie map. Owner and chef Paul Harwood cut his teeth under the tutelage of Rick Stein, and the success of The Fish House is testament to his passion for seafood and surf trips around the globe. Expect the freshest fish and shellfish landed a pebble’s throw away in Newquay harbour, served in simple, rustic dishes beside the sea.

Find out more at thefishhousefistral.com

Restaurant Nathan Outlaw, Port Isaac

Helming two of Cornwall’s finest seafood restaurants in the fishing village of Port Isaac, Outlaw has made a name for himself as one of Cornwall’s most eminent chefs. Take a seat in a 15th century fisherman’s cottage and sample a selection of seafood plates at Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen, or tuck into a set seafood menu and peer out to the Cornish coastline from Restaurant Nathan Outlaw. Whichever you choose, the menu is dictated by local fishermen and highlights the most delicious and sustainable seafood caught from the ocean in view

Find out more at nathan-outlaw.com.

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

Prawn on The Lawn, Padstow

In Cornwall’s number one foodie town, it’s difficult to rise to fame against the likes of Rick Stein and Paul Ainsworth. But for a little seafood bar and restaurant tucked in the cobbled streets of Padstow, Prawn on the Lawn has made a very big name for itself. Focusing on produce sourced directly from the day boats, and offering a mix of small plates and seafood platters, this is the perfect venue to share finger-licking fruits de mer with friends and family.

Find out more at prawnonthelawn.com.

The Mariners, Rock

With Paul Ainsworth and his team heading up this local pub beside the Camel Estuary, it’s little wonder that the calibre of the food and drink matches the divine views on the doorstep. What better way to spend a summer afternoon than watching the boats go by from the waterside terrace, while sipping local ales from Sharp’s brewery, alongside Porthilly oysters (plucked from oyster beds in view), lobster, mussels and catch of the day? Make a day of it by arriving on the Black Tor ferry from Padstow.

Find out more at paul-ainsworth.co.uk/the-mariners.

The Longstore, Charlestown

The historic harbour of Charlestown is arguably Cornwall’s most famous film location, and well known for its starring role in the BBC’s recent adaptation of Poldark. Upstairs in The Longstore you can peer out at the tall ships (and at times spot the Poldark cast in action) while dining on succulent steaks and seafood locally sourced from land and sea. From simple crab and avocado to seafood bowls and pan fried fillets of the finest fish, the menu and the venue cater for the whole family.

Find out more at thelongstore.co.uk.

The Beach Hut, Watergate Bay

Big on burgers, steak, fish and shellfish and perfectly positioned on the golden sands of Watergate Bay, visitors will be treated with mouth-watering mussels, smoked mackerel, breaded fish and chips along with their famous crab spaghetti. Wash it down with a showstopping cocktail and a side view of a crashing waves and a fiery sunset and you won’t be disappointed. The Beach Hut is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Pets welcome.

Find out more at watergatebay.co.uk/eat/the-beach-hut.

Porthminster Cafe, Porthminster, St Ives

Bang on the beautiful white sands of St Ives, and with buckets full of accolades to its name, the Porthminster hardly needs an introduction. Dine on ingredients plucked from the ocean in view and the café’s kitchen garden, cooked with an Asian or Mediterranean twist. On a sunny afternoon take a seat on the heated terrace and soak up the stunning views of St Ives Bay. Whatever the weather, it’s prudent to book ahead for a table at this popular seaside foodie gem.

Find out more at porthminstercafe.co.uk.

Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant, Padstow

Enjoy fine dining dishes at the flagship Rick Stein restautant. Head Chef, Pete Murt, leads the way now, with his team perfectly recreating Rick’s recipes time and time again for guests to enjoy – including lobster thermidor, turbot hollandaise and Indonesian seafood curry.  Rest assured that the menu flaunts the best local and seasonal produce, in dishes inspired by a combination of Cornwall and Stein’s travels.

Find out more at rickstein.com.

Mackerel Sky Seafood Bar, Newlyn

An authentic seafood ‘bar’ where no bookings are taken, here fresh fish dishes are served in a casual atmosphere at the heart of the fishing village of Newlyn. Enjoy a range of classic dishes from moules mariniere and mackerel, to crab tacos and scallops, all reasonably priced and freshly flipped from the local fishing boats to the pan and your plate.

Find out more at mackerelskycafe.co.uk.

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

Have a recommendation of your own? Follow the conversation and let us know on Facebook or Instagram.

Book your self-catering stay with Beach Retreats. 

South West Coast Path Membership Pack

Join us in October and receive a complimentary South West Coast Path Association Membership pack to enjoy during your visit…

If you’re visiting in October and booked your holiday after 20th August 2019, you are eligible to receive a complimentary South West Coast Path Association Membership pack or a Love Louie doggy pack for your four-legged friend.

With over 250 miles of coastal trail to explore in Cornwall alone, The South West Coast Path is one of the most spectacular walking destinations in the UK. Whether you use it to walk the dog, have family picnics, to escape on holiday for some fresh sea air or enjoy it as a serious walker, becoming a member is one of the best ways you can help to protect and champion the South West Coast Path. As well as being the ultimate source of support and inspiration for exploring the Coast Path, your membership goes a long way to helping care for all 630 miles of England’s longest National Trail for everyone to enjoy, now and in the future.

What does the pack include?

    • The latest edition of the Complete Guide to the South West Coast Path

 

    • Two issues of ‘Trailblazing’ magazine– in spring and autumn

 

    • Monthly e-newsletters – full of the latest news and stories about the Path

 

    • Car sticker

 

    • Discounts at the Coast Path online shop – great for walking essentials and gifts

 

    • 15% off Cotswold Outdoor in store and online, 15% off Runderwear online, 15% off Sunday Afternoon Hats online and 10% off in store at Go Outdoors South West stores

 

    • Solo walking networks for women and men – e-mail or call the office to sign up

 

    • An invite to our Annual General Meeting

 

    • Free completers certificate and badge when you finish the Path!

 

    • RRP £25.80

Take in the UK’s finest coastal scenery with some tempting cafes to stop off at and refuel. It is the perfect mix of tangled hair, invigorating walks and hot chocolate stops this autumn.

This is the second year Beach Retreats are supporting the South West Coast Path and all it has to offer. Last year you may remember us visiting a record 47 beaches in Cornwall on the summer solstice (longest day of the year) to raise money for the coast path. You can read about our journey here.

Terms and Conditions

    • Your contact details will be shared with the South West Coast Path Association in order to fulfil your new membership.

 

    • The South West Coast Path will deliver your membership pack to your home within 10 working days.

 

    • No cash alternative.

 

    • Only available for new bookings that depart in October 2019.

 

    • Only available for new bookings that are made after 20 August 2019.

 

    • Offer is non transferable if your booking is cancelled or postponed.

 

Love Loui Gift Boxes for pets

Join us on the beach in October with your four legged friend and receive a complimentary goody bag for them on arrival.

We’ve teamed up with our friends at Love Louie to offer new guests that depart between 1-31 October a complimentary gift box for their fury friend (on new bookings only made after 20 August 2019) or a South West Coast Path Membership. This wonderful gift includes the following:

Love Louie are a small family business based in the South West, they started their boxes when their toy obsessed Dachshund Louie would get bored easily when he could quickly destroy toys bought in pet shops and became uninterested in the usual treats. They then created a monthly subscription service where new goody boxes for dogs would be delivered to subscriber homes each month.

Love Louie provide the highest quality toys and treats because our beloved pets really do deserve it. They guarantee savings on the RRP and the best part is they are the only company in the UK to donate 15% of all sales to an animal charity of your choice. As well as having rescue dogs of their own and helping their local rescue centre for many years, in the past year alone Love Louie has raised over £4000 for Animal charities all over the world and managed to prevent their local Animal Rescue from having to close its doors.

All the items in the box have been researched, chosen for their high quality and have been tested by their own pets before even being considered for inclusion in the Love Louie boxes. Louie personally loves testing the durability of the toys! Each box will contain a minimum of 6 items. This will be a variety of toys, treats and accessories, all boxes will be suitable for various dietary requirements. Treats are wheat free, grain free, dairy free and low fat.

Find out more about Love Louie.

dog with gift box

 

For more inspiration on things to see and do in Cornwall check out our dog-friendly blog.

Terms & Conditions

    • One Love Louie box per booking

 

    • Box contents may vary and may not be as the picture shown.

 

    • No cash alternative available.

 

    • Only available for new bookings that depart between 1-31 October 2019.

 

    • Only available for new bookings that are made after 20 August 2019.

 

    • Pets are to be supervised at all times with all items supplied.

 

    • Beach Retreats and Love Louie LTD will except no responsibility for damages caused and any product defect should be reported to the manufacturer directly.

 

    • Please follow safety guidance and advice which can be found on each individual item.

 

    • • Offer is non transferable if your booking is cancelled or postponed.

 

EYE OF THE STORM

 

The almighty boom. The brackish smell. The exhilarating power. Spurting geysers of foam; lines of huge waves stacked up to the horizon; wind whipping your face. The humbling sense of insignificance… Nothing beats the raw elemental thrill and timeless romance of witnessing huge thundering seas crashing relentlessly onto Cornwall’s dramatic coastline.

Storm watching can be fun and exciting but it’s vital to put your safety first. The winter weather can bring high winds and huge waves, so it’s important to keep a safe distance. Storms in Cornwall can be highly dangerous, so check tide times, be cautious and don’t take any risks.

Whether it’s hurricanes tracking north from the Gulf of Mexico or intense winter storms raging off Newfoundland, October to February sees some colossal swells build and travel unhindered for thousands of miles across the Atlantic before slamming into our cliffs, beaches and sea walls. As long as you’re wrapped up warm and perched in a safe vantage point, storm watching has to be one of Cornwall’s most enthralling winter pastimes.

TOP 5 STORM WATCHING SPOTS

Porthleven

Arguably the daddy of Cornish storm watching spots, this historic fishing village sits on an exposed stretch of southwest facing coastline – and takes the full force of howling southwesterly storms straight on the chin. Porthleven is the pin-up of the Cornish storm watching scene: photographs of monstrous waves breaking over the church on the pier and mountains of backwash slapping back from its cliffs frequently adorn the national newspapers and news channels when a big sou’wester rolls in. Truly has to be seen to be believed.

 

The Cribbar, Newquay

Just off the end of Towan headland, the Cribbar reef is a big wave surfing spot of near-mythical proportions. It rarely breaks, but when it does the waves can be over 30ft high. It’s difficult to judge the scale of these huge walls of water until you see a surfer dwarfed by their towering faces. Recent years have seen a number of hardy surfers using jet-skis to tow in to these watery beasts – and the atmosphere amongst spectators on the headland is something else.

 

Bedruthan Steps, Mawgan Porth

The dramatic rock stacks at Bedruthan beach, Mawgan Porth, stand testament to the power of the waves that have carved out their impressive, jagged forms over the millennia. Standing atop Carnewas cliffs and watching foaming seas pounding these outcrops on a stormy day is sure to blast out every last cobweb.

 

Blowhole, Porth

Cross the narrow footbridge onto Porth Island, at the tip of Trevelgue Head, and if you’re lucky you’ll see one of Cornwall’s finest blowholes spouting explosively. It’s at its most impressive around mid tide, and can be spectacular when there’s a big swell (please be careful crossing the bridge, mind!). The remains of a prehistoric settlement and windswept, panoramic views give the place a forlorn allure.

 

Trevose Head

Lurching out into the Atlantic just west of Padstow, this exposed promontory commands panoramic views towards Newquay to the south and the Camel estuary to the northeast. At the far tip sits a gleaming white lighthouse, perched above gigantic cliffs of grey granite that rise sheer from the sea to a height of over 150 feet. This solitary spot is a breathtaking place to witness nature’s incredible power as winter storms smash into the cliffs below.