Author: gloversure

5 Reasons to Stay at Bol-Y-Maer

Bol-Y-Maer, a selection of one and two-bedroom apartments moments from the Bude coastline, merge laid-back beach living with boutique hotel chic. Inspired by a mantra of simplicity and ease, each apartment is perfectly designed for comfort and situated close to everything you need. Dip in the heated swimming pool, laze in stylish interiors, and explore Bude with quick access to the town, beaches and South West Coast Path.

Interested in looking at our other developments? Check out our holiday developments across Cornwall.

Here are 5 reasons to book your holiday at Bol-Y-Maer.

Swimming

Bol-Y-Maer is made for water lovers, whether you’re a dedicated sea swimmer or prefer the shelter of an indoor pool. The retreats are just minutes from Bude’s best beaches: at Summerleaze you’ll find a tidal pool perfect for open air lengths, whereas Crooklets has fun waves for jumping and bodysurfing. Back at Bol-Y-Maer, you can book a private session in the heated indoor pool and warm up in style.

Interiors

Sleek, boutique hotel design make these apartments a dream for interior design lovers. Curl up in rustic-chic living rooms, with parquet floors, teardrop hanging lamps and Cornish artwork. Neutrals rule in the comfy bedrooms, where plush cushions and subtle décor create the perfect environment for sleep. And after a day at the beach, rinse the sand off in spa-style rainfall showers.

Surfing

Bude is an underrated surf destination, catering for everyone from complete beginners to seasoned surfers. A short walk from Bol-Y-Maer you’ll find several surf schools, including Big Blue and MLH, where you can book onto private or group lessons, hire equipment and build your confidence in the water. Bol-Y-Maer’s sleek, no-fuss design and practical location make the apartments the perfect surf-pads for friends, couples, families or solo travellers looking for a watersports getaway.

Image credit: Big Blue Surf School

Golfing

Literally seconds from your front door you’ll find Bude & North Cornwall Golf Club, one of Britain’s best clubs with a sea view. The course offers players of all abilities a rare opportunity to experience an old-style links with many blind shots and fast undulating greens. Bude is a member’s golf club which provides a playable course 365 days a year, and visitors are welcome throughout the year. If you’re a keen golfer, there’s virtually no better apartment in Cornwall to stay in and have convenient access to a course.

Restaurants

Cornwall is a haven for foodies, with its fresh seafood and great local chefs. Bude is no exception, and the quirky town centre has plenty of places to dine during your stay. Temple offers chic dining with a modern, seasonal menu, whilst Elements restaurant offers a scenic spot for dinner and cocktails. Read our full guide to eating out in Bude here.

Image credit: Temple

Discover more about the area around Bude, and find out about Morwenstow, just 7 miles north of Bude in our blog.

Have a look at our other holiday properties & book your stay in Bude and discover more of the North Cornwall coast.

Find your fish

A fresh-from-the-ocean catch for dinner – just that bit fresher and tastier when staying by the sea? Time to expand your piscatorial horizons and find out what to pick up at the fishmonger and how to cook it, with Ben Tunnicliffe at Newlyn’s Tolcarne Inn

Newlyn Harbour, on the sheltered west side of Penzance Bay, has welcomed fishing boats with their catch since the 15th century. And it continues to be a thriving fishing port landing multiple species every day, from mackerel and monkfish to John Dory and cuttlefish.

A few hundred yards from the pier is the 300-year-old home of the Tolcarne Inn. An unstuffy pub, it’s lauded for its lip-puckeringly good seafood, which travels from sea to market to plate in hours not days.

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

Award-winning chef Ben Tunnicliffe set up in Newlyn in 2012. “In other European ports, seafood restaurants are abundant. Newlyn has arguably the most diverse fish market in the country, so it made sense to open a fish restaurant here,” says Ben, who buys his fish daily from the market or direct from day fishing boats.

“A freshly caught fish will have bright eyes and slimy skin. It also won’t smell of anything.”

Choices, choices

Planning a fresh fish supper? Ben recommends seeking out a local fishmonger and quizzing them on what’s landed that day.

“A freshly caught fish will have bright eyes and slimy skin. It also won’t smell of anything. If it’s starting to smell it means it’s getting old. Be guided by what’s on ice in the shop,” he says.

“If you’re new to cooking fish then have a good chat with the fishmonger. They’ll be happy to answer your questions. They can also prepare it for you, if you need them to, by filleting and pin boning, and then can give you advice on how to cook it.”

Once you get your freshly wrapped fillets or whole fish back to your retreat, Ben recommends not trying to do anything too fancy and risk ruining it by submerging it in an overpowering sauce. Whether it’s a meaty monkfish fillet or a juicy piece of hake, let the delicate flavours shine through and allow the fish itself to do the talking.

“Less is always more,” says Ben. “The simplest way to cook fish is to wrap your fillet in foil with some lemon juice and some herbs stuffed into its belly, season it and then stick it in the oven. Or put it under the grill, as opposed to on top of the grill, or fry it quickly in some butter.”

Gently does it

The biggest faux pas home cooks can make is to overcook their fish, says Ben: “If you think of the amount of raw fish that’s eaten in Asia that tells you not to be afraid of eating undercooked fish. You want it to remain moist and succulent, so it doesn’t dry out. This is a delicate product. Keep it slightly underdone and it will continue to cook in its own steam before you serve it.”

“One of the earliest pieces of advice I got in my career was: ‘what goes together, grows together’”

With fish and seafood prices soaring over the past couple of years, Ben also advises that you experiment with lesser-known species, rather than your traditional coastal favourites: “There’s a huge demand for popular catch like lobster, turbot and mackerel, which means prices are driven up. So, don’t be afraid to try something new and perhaps more affordable.

“Occasionally in the restaurant we have great weever fish on the menu – the fish that buries itself under the sand and can give you a nasty sting. It’s not commonly eaten in this country and people are a little unsure about it but when they try it, they love it.” He recommends asking the fishmonger what’s in season and how they recommend it’s cooked.

Check out our holiday properties in Mousehole to experience everything the area has to offer.

The perfect partner

With your fish taking the starring role on your dinner platter, it’s just a question of which sides to serve. While the humble potato – boiled, chipped or fried – is always a safe bet, look at what else is currently in season.

“One of the earliest pieces of advice I got in my career was: ‘what goes together, grows together’,” says Ben. “If you go to the local veg shop, see what produce is coming off the fields at the moment and it’s likely to match with what’s coming off the sea. It’s a really good tip.”

He offers up this seasonal serving suggestion for half-term holidaymakers: “All the brassicas are in season right now, so take some curly kale and fry it off in a little oil and water. Throw in some finely diced chilli, anchovies, lemon zest and lemon juice, continue to fry for a few minutes, and season. This would be a delicious accompaniment to a baked juicy fillet of gurnard, seasoned with a little olive oil and lemon juice.”

If you’d prefer to let Ben do the cooking, head to the Tolcarne Inn, Newlyn.

Enjoy your pick of coastal culinary treats when you stay footsteps from the shore.

Explore the sustainable practices and rich heritage of fairer fishing in Cornwall, where tradition meets environmental stewardship.

Autumn Walks in Cornwall

The crowds have dispersed, but the weather and sea temperature remain warm. Autumn is walking season, being the best time to spot migrating birds heading back south against flashes of red in the trees. You’ll also benefit from cool, crisp air, balmy sunshine and vivid blue sea vistas. Here’s some of our favourite autumnal short walks – all within easy reach of our properties. Your four-legged friends would love a walk too, so why not stay at one of our dog-friendly retreats?

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

Godrevy Head

A circular route with great views across St Ives Bay and Godrevy lighthouse just offshore. If you’re lucky you’ll also spot seals swimming in the sea or basking in the autumn sun down below in Mutton Cove. Just be sure to keep the noise down when passing them, so not to disturb their nap time! In autumn and especially in strong winds you’ll find huge flocks of migrating seabirds sheltering on the headland.

See our self-catering properties near Godrevy.
Explore more of West Cornwall, and check out our holiday properties in Hayle.

Godrevy lighthouse in Cornwall

Credit: Matt Jessop for Visit Cornwall

Watergate Bay to Whipsiderry 

A walk to blow the cobwebs away. You can either start or finish your stomp along Watergate Bay’s low tide beach before cutting back in along the coastpath at Whipsiderry – a real hidden gem – high up on the cliffs.

See properties in Watergate Bay.

Glendurgan Garden

Worth heading inland for. With its mild climate and sheltered valleys, the amazing plants of Glendurgan take on new features in the autumn months. As low light filters through the woodlands on the valley sides, the leaves and trunks of trees take on fascinating shades of autumnal colour.

Glendurgan Garden in the autumn

Copyright: Gordon Jolly.

Sennen Cove to Land’s End

A walk with spectacular views of granite coastline, shipwrecks and inaccessible coves. You can vary the length and difficulty of the walk to suit your needs as there are three options for returning to Sennen.

See our self-catering properties in Sennen.

Sennen_social

Cremyll Ferry to Kingsand and Cawsand

Catch the ferry from Royal William Yard in Plymouth across the water to the historic grounds and gardens of Mount Edgecumbe to start an unusual section of the coast path. Eventually the path leads you to the attractive villages of Kingsand and Cawsand. You can extend your walk to Whitsand Bay if you wish.

See our self-catering properties in Cawsand.

A walk through Whitsand Bay

Chapel Porth to Porthtowan

An iconic Cornish walk that takes in the historic Wheal Coates mine engine. Head to Chapel Porth at low tide to walk along the beautiful golden sand to Porthtowan, returning along the high cliffs and mining remains above.

See our self-catering properties in Porthtowan.

Wheal Coates, Porthtowan

For more walks and beach inspiration, browse our various beach locations.

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

Happy walking!

Sea and skies

Waves crash against rugged shorelines and the air takes on a crisp, invigorating chill. Cornwall unveils a different kind of magic during the autumn and winter months. The season for a change of pace, a chance to embrace the coastal environment and relish precious downtime.

Summer by the sea has much to offer, then as the days shorten and the landscape shifts into its next season mode, it’s time to slow down, stretch out and look up.

You can’t beat the autumn and winter for stargazing. From September through to March, the stage is set for the perfect conditions to gaze at the stars.

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

Starry skies over Gwennap Head, West Penwith

Image credit: Graham Gaunt Photowork

Bodmin Moor is among the best locations nationwide to turn your eyes skywards. In 2017, the majestic granite moorland was awarded an International Dark Sky Park accreditation – the first to be given to an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in the UK. This means that night-time levels of artificial light are extremely low, creating pitch-black conditions in which to admire celestial sights. And with ancient monuments all around – from stone circles to burial mounds – the past feels within touching distance. To see the stars in a dark night sky as our ancestors would have done thousands of years ago is an awe-inspiring experience.

A second Cornish region recently gained the same accreditation. West Penwith – ranging from near St Ives to St Just to Mousehole was added to the roster in 2021. Unlike Bodmin Moor, West Penwith is a sweeping coastal habitat, which offers the opportunity to enjoy dark skies from a clifftop vantage point and picturesque ruins of tin mines silhouetted against the sea.

Thinking about staying in St Ives? Have a look at our luxury St Ives holiday properties.

“And as the shower’s peak on 14–15 December coincides with the crescent moon, the sky will be left dark, meaning viewing conditions should be perfect. Moonless nights offer the best opportunity for stargazing – if you want to admire the Milky Way, for instance, time your viewing with the new moon.”

Sights to see

With luck, you may see the spectacular colour of the aurora borealis, or Northern Lights, when the night sky is filled with dancing shades of pink, green, yellow and violet. Though only rarely seen further south than Scotland in the UK, the colourful phenomenon graced Cornish skies twice last year.

Image credit: Graham Gaunt Photowork

The cosmic calendar is filled with must-see events this winter. On 28 October, the UK will witness a partial lunar eclipse, as the moon passes through the earth’s shadow; turn your eyes to the skies at 21:15 for the maximum eclipse.

In December, the Geminid meteor shower will see up to 150 meteors per hour dashing through the night sky, making it one of the best displays to see this year. And as the shower’s peak on 14–15 December coincides with the crescent moon, the sky will be left dark, meaning viewing conditions should be perfect. Moonless nights offer the best opportunity for stargazing – if you want to admire the Milky Way, for instance, time your viewing with the new moon.

On 22 December comes the winter solstice: the shortest day and longest night of the year. This needn’t be gloomy – far from it. The annual Montol Festival in Penzance on 21 December aims to revive ancient pagan traditions to joyous effect. Six days of celebration – including storytelling, folk music and mask- and lantern-making workshops – will lead up to the main event on 21 December, in which a procession of picturesquely-costumed figures parades through the town.

Image credit: Bella Bunce

Sea views and swims

The winter months are the perfect time for bracing coastal walks. The South West Coast Path along the rugged cliffs and hidden coves of north Cornwall offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Bundle up, bring your camera, and set out for an invigorating hike.

You might even catch one of the season’s most dramatic spectacles: storm watching. Head to a cliffside viewpoint and witness the power of the ocean as it crashes against the cliffs and sends waves soaring into the air. Then there’s the prospect of taking it all in from a beach side retreat, or retreating back there for a mug of cocoa after facing the elements.

Image credit: Bella Bunce

For keen swimmers or those game for a short cold water dip, secluded sea pools offer protection from the wildness of the waves, and local favourites include Bude Sea Pool and Treyarnon Bay Tidal Pool, near Padstow. For something less exhilarating and more relaxing the geothermal pool at Jubilee Pool in Penzance is open all year round, filled with seawater that’s been geothermically warmed to a toasty 35 degrees.

“During winter, hundreds of thousands of starlings gather here to swoop in their impressive formation – known as a ‘murmuration’ – at sunset.”

Winter wildlife

Winter is an excellent time for wildlife enthusiasts to visit. As mainland Europe freezes, the Cornish coast becomes a hub for both resident and migratory bird species, including puffins, gannets, and razorbills. Look out, too, for flocks of brent geese and wigeons arriving from the Arctic, seeking refuge in the mild Cornish climate. The cliffs provide ideal vantage points to spot these majestic creatures as they soar along the coastline.

Image credit: Graham Gaunt Photowork

Some of the best places to bird-watch include the internationally-important Maer Lake Nature Reserve near Bude, Middle Amble Marsh and Walmsley Sanctuary, both near Wadebridge, and Windmill Farm Nature Reserve on the Lizard. And to combine heritage sights with natural wonders, you can’t do better than a trip to St Michael’s Mount in Marazion, near Penzance. During winter, hundreds of thousands of starlings gather here to swoop in their impressive formation – known as a ‘murmuration’ – at sunset.

You may even be lucky enough to witness seals and dolphins playing in the brisk waters. Grey seals haul themselves ashore to have their pups in autumn and winter, and there are spots around the coast to observe seals at this time of year from safe vantage points. Bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins and harbour porpoises are frequently seen off the Cornish coast year-round.

Whether seeking adventure, carving out some precious downtime, or looking for both, the autumnal and wintery coast has something to offer every traveller.

Experience the mesmerising allure of the sea with the sensational sea, where each moment is immersed in the beauty and tranquillity of coastal living.

Make your escape, experience #coastalwonder.…

10 of the Best Roasts on The Coast | Cornwall

What better way to reward a Sunday stroll along the coast than with a hearty roast beside the beach? Here are some of the best places for a roast in Cornwall just a pebble’s throw from the waves..

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

Trevone Bay

Port William, Trebarwith Strand

Explore Trebarwith Strand at low tide and you can splash in the rock pools, jump in the waves and stroll along the sugary sands. Or perhaps you’d prefer a cliff-top ramble to neighbouring Tintagel, with its eye-popping scenery and sea-lashed fortress ruins? Whichever you choose, once you’ve mustered an appetite in the briny air, retreat to the beachside Port William for a legendary Sunday roast. Book a sea-facing table or hunker by the fire with your dog at your feet, and tuck into delicious seasonal food and local ales in this boutique coastal inn.

theportwilliam.co.uk

The Mariners, Rock

When Paul Ainsworth took the helm of this water’s-edge venue in May 2019, there was little doubt that his foodie reputation, teamed with Sharp’s Brewery beers, would prove a winning combination. Whether you’ve stomped along the coast path from Polzeath or floated across by boat from Padstow, this is a stunning location to dine with views over the Camel Estuary. Sunday lunch is a celebration of finest local ingredients, with classic Cornish Dexter beef sirloin and saddleback pork belly roasts alongside contemporary vegetarian and seafood options.

paul-ainsworth.co.uk/the-mariners/about/

Catch, Mawgan Porth

Sunday’s were made for surfing and wild walks on the beach and cliffs. So after a dip in the waves at Mawgan Porth, and a stroll along the cliff tops to the spectacular Bedruthan Steps, tuck into a roast by the coast at Catch Seafood Bar and Grill. Hunkered beside the beach, within easy reach of the sandy runway and Atlantic rollers, this contemporary beach-chic restaurant serves up hearty roast dinners and classic seafood dishes, not to mention the best Bloody Mary on the North Coast.

catchmawganporthbeach.co.uk

Read our blog to find out about what Watergate Bay, Newquay has to offer at Christmas, especially at night.

Lewinnick Lodge, Fistral

Perched on the wave-lashed Pentire headland, Lewinnick Lodge is a sublime location to eat and drink on any day of the week. Originally an 18thth century cottage that has since posed as a smugglers’ den and a lobster hold, here you can clap eyes on the Atlantic, and often spot passing pods of dolphins. From classic roast dinners to catch of the day, it’s the perfect spot to while away a Sunday afternoon after a surf on the famous Fistral beach or a windswept coastal walk around Pentire Headland.

lewinnicklodge.co.uk

Summerhouse, Perranporth

Warm up and enjoy wintery beach views from a contemporary dining spot overlooking the waves from a prime cliff-top location. Warm your cockles with soup of the day, before a delicious platter of slow-roasted beef or lamb, with all the trimmings including swede mash, pickled red cabbage and Yorkshire puddings. Or perhaps you’d prefer a baked fish dish or veggie risotto? Whichever you choose, make sure you’ve worked up enough of an appetite to squeeze in a lip-smacking dessert, such as panna cotta or platter of Cornish cheeses.

thesummerhouse.co.uk

The Old Coastguard, Mousehole

Situated in a stunning seaside village, with views to the fishing boats and St Clement’s Rock (where you’ll often spot basking seals), The Old Coastguard is a stylish and laid-back setting to enjoy Cornwall’s finest food and drink. Add to that an award-winning chef, Jamie Porter, serving up three-course Sunday lunches showcasing Cornwall’s finest game, beef and poultry, as well as seafood landed nearby in Newlyn and just-picked seasonal veg. To top it all off there’s some incredible walking territory on the doorstep, such as the six-mile loop to Lamorna Cove, that takes you from boulder-strewn beaches, past Tater Du lighthouse, and through the magical woodland of Kemyel Crease.

oldcoastguardhotel.co.uk

Gurnards Head, Nr Zennor

Minutes’ walk from one of the wildest stretches of Cornwall’s coastline, kick off your walking boots, chill out with the dog at your feet and sample Cornish ales, fine wines and a Sunday roast packed with produce plucked from the coast and countryside. As well as classic beef and lamb dishes, there are modern seafood and veggie dishes, created from seasonal and foraged ingredients. When you’re fuelled up and ready to hit the coast path again, follow the narrow promontory to find the remains of an Iron Age cliff castle (keep dogs on leads), and then wander alongside the crystal waters of Pendour and Porthglaze coves, searching for a legendary mermaid on your way to Zennor.

gurnardshead.co.uk

Star and Garter, Falmouth

An award-winning gastro-pub boasting dreamy sea views, The Star and Garter takes Sunday lunch very seriously indeed. From moorland-aged rump of beef to Cornish roast pork served with the best crackling, all the meat is supplied by renowned local butcher Phillip Warren. And it’s and served with crispy duck-fat roasties, monster Yorkies, silky gravy and a selection of local, seasonal veg. So, bring your best appetite, kickback by the fire and soak up sea views while feasting on artisan ingredients cooked up by some of Cornwall’s most talented chefs.

starandgarterfalmouth.co.uk

Check out more of what Falmouth has to offer by staying in one of our bespoke retreats in Falmouth.

The Longstore, Charlestown

Priding itself on serving locally sourced food from the land and sea, The Longstore is a bright and contemporary venue nestled beside Charlestown harbour. Admire the historic tall ships, paddleboard around the bay or a take a coastal walk to Porthpean, before tucking into classic house dishes such as Cornish mussels and crispy squid, and the centrepiece of the supreme Longstore Roast. Low and slow-cooked Cornish beef, slow-roasted rolled pork belly, roast chicken and nut roast, come with all the trimmings you could wish for, including rich red wine gravy, Yorkshire puddings, stuffing, rosemary and garlic roasted potatoes, cauliflower cheese, swede and carrot mash, roasted root vegetables, and seasonal greens.

thelongstore.co.uk

Pandora Inn, Mylor

The best way to arrive at this divine estuary-edge venue is by boat, kayak or even paddleboard. But whether you arrive under sail, by bike, on foot or by car, it’s worth making the journey to this timeless 13th century inn on the banks of the beautiful Restronguet Creek. Take a seat on the pontoon and unreel your crabbing line, or choose a cosy nook inside this historic inn to tuck into a classic Sunday roast, loaded with the finest ingredients from Cornish farmers and local suppliers.

pandorainn.com

If all this talk of Cornish roasts has you hungry, check out our last minute availability and head to the coast. Find a retreat in one of our beach locations.

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No Drive Delights: Croyde

Setting out from Serenity on foot reveals a hidden coffee hut, a quiet tree-lined footpath and an adrenalin-spiked coasteering adventure away from the jostling beach crowds…

It’s mid-morning on the late August Bank Holiday in Croyde. The village thrums with the excited babble of beachgoers looking to make the most of the generous surf lapping the shore. We escape the throngs and head into the village centre; its quaint whitewashed stone cottages and thatched roofs teasing stories of a bygone age.

Foregoing the ice cream shops and stores that sell surfing paraphernalia, we opt to amble down the lane behind Billy Budd’s pub to pick up a cortado from The Coffee Hatch. This quirky converted horsebox with comfy outdoor sofas and bench seating is tucked away from the main thoroughfare. We then calmly catch our breath while perusing the limited-edition surf tees and hoodies from Stolen Goods art studio next door.

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

“We pause to take in the moment, struck that this haven can be found in the centre of a bustling village.”

Caffeine fix found, we meander back towards the beach, following the tree-lined footpath which cuts through the village centre. The path dissects across serene green fields where the only sound is the rustle of leaves and the hypnotic noise of a flock of house martins who duck, dive and dance across the landscape. We pause to take in the moment, struck that this haven can be found in the centre of a bustling village.

Coastline sights

Energised, we follow the coastal path towards Baggy Point which offers exceptional views back towards Croyde Beach. Wave after wave sends holidaymakers bouncing, bobbing and bellowing with delight as they surf, swim and bodyboard on the incoming tide.

The coastline then transforms into a series of folds and fractures with rocky outcrops spilling out into the sea and reaches a crescendo of dramatic cliffs once we cross the headland. We stop to admire the vistas across to Lundy Island and Morte Point, amused by the guttural squawking of herring gulls who skim the cliff face to chastise the humans intruding on their patch.

Discover tranquillity at Gaia, a serene Beach Retreats property

Glad to be wearing our sturdy walking boots, we plough onwards over stiles and gorse towards the unspoilt oasis of Putsborough Sands. However, its silky white shores are an adventure for another day. Instead we ascend the hills and hedgerows back towards Baggy Point car park.

On the rocks

We find refreshment in the form of a Devon cream tea (clotted cream before jam!) within the beautiful walled gardens at Sandleigh Tea-Room. We then wander back to Serenity to pick up our beach towels and swimwear in anticipation of an afternoon’s rock jumping with Coasteering Croyde Bay.

“Blood pumping, we take turns to plunge feet first into a natural swimming pool.”

Kitted out with wetsuits, buoyancy aids and helmets – and armed with useful safety tips – we walk the few hundred yards back along the path towards Baggy Point. Our instructor Albi guides us down onto the craggy rocks which are to be our playground for the next couple of hours. Taking a few moments to find our feet, we soon scramble along the coast, in and out of gullies, discovering the marine life, fauna and seabirds which call this shoreline home as we go.

Blood pumping, we take turns to plunge feet first into a natural swimming pool. As we surrender ourselves to the briny blue and spring back to the surface, it’s hard not to feel pure exhilaration.

“Although the temperature is starting to dip, we give in to kicking off our shoes.”

Dining-out on the dusk

After a day of sea air, it’s tempting to stay at Serenity and pick up a takeaway from one of the seasonal street food vans at our neighbouring campsites. Instead, keen to catch a glimpse of a spectacular sunset, we stroll across the now much quieter beach towards Downend at the opposite end of the bay.

Although the temperature is starting to dip, we give in to kicking off our shoes. Barefoot, the cool grains of sand rub between our toes and sweet sanderlings scurry away from the tide nipping at their heels.

At Downend car park, The Beach Cafe dishes up lip-puckeringly-good Sri Lankan curries during the summer months, which we tuck into, chased with ice-cool beers from Bodhi’s Surf Bar next door. As we gaze out over the horizon, the sun calls time on another day, casting a spectacular glow across the rippling ocean. We take it all in – before slowly strolling back to Serenity.

Quirky coffee stop-offs, havens found, and exhilarating exploration – leave the car behind for the day when you stay by the sea…

 

Discover the charm and beauty of Croyde in North Devon, where stunning landscapes and coastal adventures await with Beach Retreats.

What’s on this October half term in Cornwall

October half term is the perfect time to reconnect with family and nature alike in Cornwall. Blustery beaches, lively surf and a jam-packed schedule of family-friendly events make half-term week one not to miss. See what’s on for October half-term 2023 below.

Book your October half term stay with 20% off selected retreats.

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

Falmouth Oyster Festival

12th – 15th October 2023

This festival celebrates the start of the oyster dredging season. A five-day festival packed with cookery demonstrations by leading local chefs, the opportunity to sample the seafood, oysters, wine and local ale. Entertainment includes children’s shell painting, sea shanties, live music, oyster shucking competitions and the Falmouth working boat race.

Check out more of what Falmouth has to offer by staying in one of our bespoke retreats in Falmouth.

Image credit: Jamie Johnson

Eden Project Ice Skating

Starting 14 October 2023 until February 2024

Get your skates on, grab a penguin and hit the ice rink at the Eden Project. With music flooding the sound waves, ice sessions for all ages, and sugary hot chocolates to be enjoyed on the sidelines, a spin around the ice rink is a quintessential way to kick off the autumn and winter season in Cornwall.

Minack Theatre

Visit the Minack Theatre, Cornwall’s world famous open-air theatre which is carved into the granite cliff and set in glorious gardens overlooking the spectacular panorama of Porthcurno Bay.

There is a programme of live performances throughout the year, and outside of these performances you can visit the theatre, stand on stage, explore the glorious sub-tropical gardens full of exotic plants and discover the extraordinary story of how it was created.

This October half term, catch children’s shows The Lonely Lighthouse Keeper and Madagascar Junior.

Image credit: Minack Theatre

Hall for Cornwall

Perfect for a rainy day or evening out of the house, Truro’s Hall for Cornwall has an exciting variety of shows, with theatre performances, live music and interactive kids events throughout the year.  This October half term, the line up includes Tom Fletcher’s ‘There’s a Monster in your Show’, James Martin Live, The Manfreds Maximum Rhythm n Blues, alongside Toddler Time which is on every Tuesday morning until December.

‘Pirates’ at Falmouth Maritime Museum

Running until December 2024

Visit the Maritime museum in Falmouth for their latest major exhibition on Pirates! Explore how popular culture has shaped how we think of pirates today and dive beneath the surface to unearth the harsh and terrifying truth.

To find out, immerse yourself in the digital world of the Sea of Thieves game, land on Treasure Island, meet the man behind Long John Silver and dance a hornpipe with Horatio Pugwash before discovering the dark world of the real pirates of the Caribbean.

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

Book your October half term stay with 20% off selected retreats.

A good lead: recommended days out for your dog

Body surfing, sea swimming, forays into forests and dune roaming – we asked local dog owners and walkers where they go for dog-friendly walks, swims and games.

Among the trees

Katy, owner of the Natural Cornish Pet Shop, based in St Erth, and Doggy Day Care Cornwall, owner of a Collie x Poodle and Samoyed Puppy.

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Tail-wagging fun

“We love Respryn, near Bodmin, as there are so many different routes you can take and – whatever the weather or time of year – there is a suitable footpath. It’s also convenient, located midway through Cornwall so is a perfect stop off on a journey to fit in a walk. You can also take the train to Bodmin Parkway.

“Otherwise, outside of the seasonal dog beach ban, we have St Ives Bay on our doorstep: four miles of sandy beaches and cliffs to walk, meander, run and swim.”

Post-surf pup

Image credit: Natural Cornish Pet Shop

“Both girls are very active and love the water and spending time at the beach or in the summer keeping cool in any forest with a river.

“Artemis, our Collie x Poodle, loves to body surf; she’ll run into the surf, swim out to fetch her ball, and then cruise back to shore using the waves to power her return.”

Water bowl respite

“At Respryn there’s The National Trust Cafe at Lanhydrock just up the road, and closer to home in St Erth we have Birdies Bistro, a fantastic lunch spot and completely dog friendly.”

Splashing about

Lowenna, @cornwalllover on Instagram and Facebook, is often posting updates from her travels around Cornwall accompanied by her black Labrador Luna.

Tail-wagging fun

“Luna’s favourite place to walk is the Gannel in Newquay. She likes to run between the boats at low tide, swim in the estuary at high tide and explore all the nooks around the woodland areas.”

The walk is always different with new highlights each time but water here is really calm, so she can always spot her ball.”

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Swimming the Gannel

Image credit: @cornwalllover on Instagram

“She loves anywhere that has water and sticks. She goes wild for wave jumping in the ocean, as well as swimming in the estuary.”

Water bowl respite

“During spring, summer and early autumn, grab a bite to eat at the Fern Pit café, which closes for the winter on 30th October. Their crab sandwiches are famous and the café boasts the best views in town overlooking the Gannel estuary and Crantock beach. Be sure to visit at high tide so you can watch the traffic of kayakers and paddleboarders float by.”

Dog-friendly dunes

Michelle, owner of Muddy Paws Cornwall, dog-walking, pet-sitting service and eco-friendly pet shop, has plenty of experience taking entire packs of dogs out to have fun around Cornwall.

Tail-wagging fun

“Perranporth dunes is so big, there’s lots of room for dogs to chase and play, plus free parking and water. You can also walk all the way down to the beach which at the far end is open all year to dogs. They can run, do lots of playing and even have a swim.”

Larking about on the dunes

Image credit: Muddy Paws Cornwall

Water bowl respite

“Perranporth is also a dog-friendly town which even has an ice cream shop that sells the best doggy ice cream!”

Find places to stay, footsteps from the beach where dogs are warmly welcomed…

The forgotten corner of Cornwall

A guided walk on the Morwenstow cliffs by David Myers

The phrases “off the beaten track” and “hidden gem” are often used to describe Cornish beaches and villages, which, upon arrival to the teeming carpark, are evidently anything but. However, Cornish wildnerness guide David Myers would like to introduce you to a place which might well be Cornwall’s best representation of the above terms.

There’s a good chance that you’ve never heard of Morwenstow, the wild and windswept coastal parish at the extreme North end of the county, and there’s a good reason why – it’s literally not on the map (well, a lot of them!). The postcard below is a great example: the 7-mile stretch north of Bude has been chopped off, an unwieldly inconvenience to the map maker.

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This isn’t a negative, far from it. It’s a unique quirk about the area which only adds to its feeling of remoteness. An hour’s drive to the nearest dual carriageway, and a further half-hour more to the closest motorway and proper train station, you really have to make an effort to get to this place. But those who do will be rewarded with some of the most unspoiled, stunning and quiet stretches of coastline in the South West. On a sunny August bank holiday, if there are more than 5 people on some of the beaches it’s classified by the locals as busy.

There are no settlements on the Morwenstow coastline, just a string of remote beaches and coves, towering clifftops and rugged coastal scenery. The only building you will encounter is a tiny cabin, constructed in 1843 by an eccentric vicar from the salvaged timbers of a ship wrecked on the jagged rocks far below. It’s been standing there defiantly for the past 180 years, surviving all manner of storms the Atlantic has thrown at it, and serves as a visual reminder to the area’s wild history of shipwrecks, piracy and smuggling. Even the local pub, the Bush Inn, owes its name to a code the smugglers used to distinguish friend from foe.

Fancy staying in Bude, near Morwenstow? Check out our luxury holiday lets in Bude.

Hawker’s Hut by David Myers

That’s not to say the coastline is all that this area has to offer. You can head inland up one of the many deep, wooded valleys, surrounded by ancient oaks. It’s a paradise for walkers and trail runners, with the vast network of paths leading into the parishes of Welcombe and Hartland, forming a network of hundreds of miles of adventure, where you will most likely not encounter a soul.

Bluebell lined woodland trail by David Myers

If cycling is more your thing, the quiet country lanes make an excellent way to explore the area. An electric bike, hidden beaches, a 13th century pub and a tearoom all combine to make an unforgettable day out.

If you’d to experience perhaps Cornwall’s best kept secret then visit www.davidmyers.co.uk or Instagram @davidmyersguide. David is a wilderness guide and Morwenstow native who offers guided walking, trail running and electric bike trips in the area, for people who want to experience the quieter side of North Cornwall and Devon. From easy one-hour history walks, to challenging all-day and multi-day adventures, there’s something for everyone.

Experience the best of nearby Padstow with our guide to a week-long stay, featuring must-see attractions, delicious dining, and picturesque coastal walks.

Discover Sennen

Sennen has it all. A cool, laid-back surf vibe meets traditional fisherman’s cottages and bobbing boats; dolphins dive in the rolling surf; cold pints and pub grub are served at 17th century pubs; and kids and hikers alike soak up the rays along the long stretch of coast.

We recently set off from Gwynver Beach House to explore the area, but you can park at any of the three village car parks (or Gwynver beach car park) if you’re visiting for the day.

See our Relive video from the day.

Let’s go…

Start at Gwynver

To begin your Sennen adventure, set out from Gwynver, a rugged sandy beach with dramatic panoramas from the cliffs above. If you’re staying at Gwynver Beach House, take the short walk from the bottom of your garden, or park up at Gwynver car park and take the steps down to the sand. Be sure to stop for photos at the top, though: this spot offers breathtaking views.

Gwynver beach

If you’re craving some peace and quiet, Gwynver beach is the spot for you. Whether you’re up for picnicking on the sand, catching some waves on your surfboard, or simply basking in the sun’s warmth, Gwynver offers the ideal setting to unwind and recharge. Flanked by sloping cliffs and rocky coastal path, this beach offers a sheltered sunbathing experience.

Coast path

Once you’ve cooled down in the blue waters, head out along the coast path, marked by nature trail signs, which winds around to Sennen Cove. This path is slightly rocky and rugged, with a bit of clambering involved, but its more than worth it for the views as you make your way around towards Sennen.

Dolphins are known to populate this spot, so keep your eyes peeled as you stroll.

Sennen Cove

You’ll arrive at Sennen Cove through the small sand dunes and sea grass. Here, you can stop for another beach nap or paddle, hire surf equipment and take to the waves, or tuck into some snacks and drinks on the sand. This cove is perfect for kids, with its small beach streams, plenty of wet sand for bucket and spade play, and gentle waves between the lifeguard flags, great for bodyboarding.

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Sennen village

From the sand, you’re close to any kind of traditional beach food or drink you fancy. Walk just a few steps up to The Old Success Inn, a 17th century pub with a large beer garden overlooking the sea. Here, you can sip some local ales, tuck into a pub lunch, and dolphin watch under a parasol.

Head to the Round House & Capstan Gallery, a unique circular art gallery with lovely views through the crooked windows. Here you can pick up some local artwork to take home with you, or get inspired to do some painting of your own during your stay.

It wouldn’t be a trip to Sennen without enjoying some fish and chips. Tuck into the very best locally caught haddock, with lashings of salt and vinegar, either in one of the old-school seafront diners or taken away and enjoyed on the sand.

Day trips nearby

Sennen is in a prime position in West Cornwall, a short drive from some of Cornwall’s most famous attractions and some lesser-known beauties. If you’re staying here for longer, plan a day out and see what’s nearby.

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

Land’s End

Just a pebble’s throw away from Sennen, Land’s End is an iconic landmark that marks the westernmost point of mainland England. Take a stroll along the cliffs and snap some photos at the famous signpost – it’s one for the Cornwall bucket list.

Minack Theatre and Porthcurno

Discover the magic of the Minack Theatre, an open-air amphitheatre perched on the cliffs overlooking Porthcurno beach. Starlit evenings are best spent watching a show here, snuggled under a blanket.

Porthcurno beach below is a dream on a summer’s day, with hues that echo the greens and blues of the Maldives.

Mousehole

A short drive from Sennen, Mousehole is probably the closest you’ll get to the fully traditional fishing village atmosphere. Cobbled streets conceal tiny art galleries, delis, a local post office and makeshift plant stalls. You may also be able to purchase the catch of the day from a fisherman if you time it right.

Retreats in Mousehole.

Explore more of West Cornwall & unlock the full guide to Porthleven’s sights and activities with our recommendations.

Penzance

This beachy art deco town is home to a colourful array of bars and restaurants, alongside a lido and geothermal pool for 1950s style bathing.

Visit Sennen and stay in one of our retreats nearby, with easy access to beach life.