Category: Activities

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 17^th 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.

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

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 17^th 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.

Luxury charters with One Atlantek

Atlantek – it’s Cornish for Atlantic

As the sun appears over the hills behind the beautiful port of Fowey, a small crowd of people gather to watch the launch of the stunning Rib, Meraud Atlantek, at Caffa Mill. One Atlantek are getting ready to collect the day’s guests from Albert Quay with a day of adventuring and exploration awaiting the family of four who discovered this luxury charter company having met them at Henley Regatta!

What started as a lunch booking at Sam’s on the Beach in Polkerris has turned into much more.

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

The guests are welcomed by the operations director and skipper of One Atlantek, Tim. As they listen to their safety brief with a fresh coffee in their hands, The brand new 8 metre Ribeye A811 gently bobs against the pontoon. Lifejackets are handed out and the guests climb aboard. Bags are stowed and before they know it, this lucky family are headed out of Fowey in the bright sunshine ready to start their adventure.

Discover coastal charm at our holiday cottages in Fowey, South Cornwall, with Beach Retreats.

Turning to the left out of the harbour mouth they soon arrive at Lantic Bay. This secluded beach has turquoise water and is a good trek to access it by land. The anchor is dropped and a morning swim is the next priority. Watched by a local Seal who is sunning himself on a rock.

Everyone takes turns jumping off the boat and even the kids are dropping comments about how wonderful this place is.

After 45 minutes it’s time to really up the stakes for this group. Tim has spotted dolphins off in the distance and as the group dry themselves off, they are suddenly surrounded by at least a hundred of these majestic creatures. Three of the pod decide that the bow wave is the place to be and the guests are treated to a twenty-minute lesson in what playing in the water really looks like.

As quickly as they arrived, the dolphins are gone and Meraud Atlantek and her passengers are now in the middle of St Austell Bay looking back at the Cornish Alps in the distance.

With the rising tide, the beaches at Silver Mines are the place to be. With no access from the coastal path, these are as close to a private beach as it’s possible to get and the snorkelling is fantastic.

With time flying by, It’s off to Polkerris to be dropped off at Sam’s. Meraud sits waiting just off the beach and with full bellies and big smiles, it’s time to be whisked around Gribben Head and back to Albert Quay where it all began.

One Atlantek are a small local company with some big ambitions. Created in 2022 by Tim Hogg, One Atlantek deliver a truly unique hospitality experience on board their beautiful Rib, Meraud Atlantek. Half Day (4 hours), Day (6 hours) and Extended day (10 hours) charters are available. Have a talk with Tim about creating your perfect day.

Find out more and book your luxury charter today, the perfect experience during your self-catered stay

Read our blog on the best things to do in the sea in every season!

New Experiences in Cornwall

A visit to the unique county of Cornwall is the perfect chance to pick-up a new skill, learn something new, or try something different. It might be an old favourite in a new location, or an untested activity you’ve always hankered after. Here’s a round-up of what to do in Cornwall this year and what your stay by the sea could offer this year…

Discover new skies

Cornwall offers dramatic landscapes for night time adventures. In December 2021, West Penwith was recognised as an International Dark Sky Park, joining Bodmin Moor with this designation and the Dark Sky Discovery Site at Carnewas and Bedruthan Steps where you can see the Milky Way pass overhead.

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

Image credit: Graham Gaunt Photowork

Spend time on ocean time

Why not take some time out from the normal rhythm of life to follow the beat of the tides? From expansive beaches of golden sand and rocky pools teeming with hidden life to high-adrenaline coasteering and water sports at high water. Then there’s reading the waves as they come and go, learning the natural signs of the sea so you can decide what best suits the day’s conditions, from heading in for a swim to grabbing the surfboard.

Go to the ceramic source

China clay is synonymous with St Austell and its surrounding villages; a rich heritage that’s embarking on an artisan revival. Operating out of St Austell’s newly relaunched Market House, along with a host of other makers, Flookan runs a four-week introduction to ceramics course, in the home of china clay, where you can learn a range of skills for working with clay. There’s also one-off workshops and taster sessions running through the year, with private bookings on request.

Image credit: Flookan

Seek out supper from the sea

Foraging seaweed can be a sustainable, tasty, invigorating journey into a new cuisine. The Fat Hen offers a two-day course in identifying, gathering, preserving and cooking with 15 different seaweeds. You’ll also learn how seaweed can remineralise the body in baths and skincare products.

Find the vines

Cornwall’s relatively mild climate and long sunlight hours make it one of the finest regions for wine production in the UK. The Wild Wine School near Padstow has a commitment to sustainable viticulture, and deals in wine with distinctly untamed notes: its mission is to share wine knowledge and passion “in surroundings that enliven senses and expand minds, calling on nature to add a technicolour edge to your experience”. In its workshop on Organic and Biodynamic Viticulture, you’ll learn the basic concepts of organic and biodynamic viticulture, “from lunar cycles to the special alchemy of plants”, taste six sustainably produced wines, and have the chance to try making one of the Biodynamic preparations.

Fancy staying in Padstow? Check out our luxury holiday lets in Padstow.

Image Credit: Ingrid Pop

Ride the West Kernow Way

An 230km off-road route – funded by the European Regional Development Fund’s Experience project – exploring west Cornwall is now fully open. It takes in many of the highlights of the western half of the Cornish peninsula, including the Botallack tin mines, the Bronze Age monument Mên-an-Tol, Land’s End, St Michael’s Mount and Lizard Point. Expect spectacular coastal scenery, hedgerows bursting with wildflowers and ancient tracks across isolated moorland.

Image credit: The West Kernow Way

Explore sea life

Graceful and silent, take to a kayak to explore aquatic habitats and the chance to share secluded coves with seals and cormorants. Koru Kayaking offer North Coast kayaking around the caves and mining heritage of St Agnes, and the sheltered creeks and coves of the Helford River near Falmouth. For the more experienced, Sea Kayaking Cornwall run a week-long adventure island hopping by kayak around the Scilly Isles.

Image credit: Koru Kayaking

Apnea or freediving, descending under water on a single breath has a long history, with roots in yoga, meditation and breathing techniques. Explore the wilderness underwater with Aquacity, based in the sheltered Porthkerris Cove on the Lizard. Aquacity offer a half-day introduction to freediving from May. There’s also a more advanced course giving an entry-level qualification.

Image credit: Daan Verhoeven

Take the geothermal waters

Jubilee Pool, the striking Art Deco sea water pool on Penzance’s promenade now has its new geothermal pool up and running, heated to 30-35 degrees via its own 410m deep geothermal well. So the pool now offers Geo & Dine, where you can enjoy an evening dip under the moonlight in the steamy geothermal pool, followed by a specially selected, fresh locally-sourced three-course meal. Or try its Geo & Fizz sessions, where you can buy an alcoholic drink from the cafe and enjoy some bubbles in the water.

Find a discounted stay by the sea on our special offers page, and browse our various beach locations to explore a new place this year.

The Importance of Play

Fun, adventure and the childlike nature of play are all important to our wellbeing, allowing us to switch off from day-to-day responsibilities and embrace our inner child. We explore how you can incorporate play into your family holiday, and the benefits this can bring.

When you’re in need of a real break, (like so many of us are right now), holidaying with the kids can be tricky. Their constant energy and endless need to be entertained often means you don’t get much chance to truly relax, and you may find you aren’t quite as revitalized as you’d hoped after a family day on the beach.

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

However, spending an uninterrupted week on holiday with your children is also an opportunity. A chance to switch off from day to day working life and responsibilities and get back in touch with your own childish side. Children are a great reminder of the importance of play, inviting you to become involved in games, adventure and exploration. Studies show that play for adults helps to release endorphins, improve brain functionality, and stimulate creativity. It can even improve memory and stimulate the growth of the cerebral cortex. Embrace a playful mindset and view your time away through younger, inquisitive eyes – it could bring a whole new lease of life to your beach days.

Here’s a few suggestions for how to dial up the play in each moment of your beach stay.

Rise

Wake up with the peach tinted rays of the morning sun. Waking early aligns best with children’s’ natural body clocks and gives you a great start to the day, allowing you to make the most of the hours of beachside adventure which lie ahead. Over breakfast, let your children choose the task for the day (set a list for them to pick between if you think it’s too risky) then plan together. Make a scavenger hunt list of things to look out for, play hide and seek with the things you need to pack – if you make the getting ready as much of the day as the outing, you’ll enjoy yourselves from the very start.

Roam

Head out, little feet skipping along dusty paths lined with Cornish montbretia and sea pinks. This is the most exciting moment of the day- when the anticipation for seeing the sea takes over, and you are yet to spot the first glimmer of blue in the distance. Make it a challenge- the first to spot the beach, a surfer, a bird….

Discover our bespoke holiday cottages in Hayle, a short drive from St Ives and Pendeen.

Collect

The shoreline and surrounding coast are dotted with treasures- from seashells, flowers and mother of pearl to striped feathers, driftwood and smooth sea glass, start a hunt and see what you can find. Collect as many different things as you can, or pick one category and see how many different kinds of that thing you can find. There are hundreds of different patterned pebbles, types of shells, or varieties of seaweed you can gather and discover once you start to look. Through rockpooling secret ponds, scaling the shore or delving into the flora, collecting seaside treasures is a great way to while away the hours whilst finding keepsakes that hold the memory of these beach days. Whoever finds the best seashell wins!

Picnic

Make sure you’ve packed up plenty of fuel. Find a serene spot overlooking sea views and tuck in. Spread jam and dollop clotted cream on scones, the classic Cornish snack which kids love. Food is all part of the fun, so let the little ones get involved in assembling their snacks- don’t worry about the mess! For more food inspiration, have a look at our Cook and Carry blog with ideas on beach friendly meals that can be easily transported from pan to sand.

Navigate

Help keep the little ones engaged on the walk home by letting them navigate the route. Do they remember any particular landmarks passed on the way? Do they recognise the route they mapped out earlier? Are there any detours or artefacts they want to look at? You could even have a go at reading natural signs- look at where the sun is in the sky and track its movements or examine the sea and how the tide has changed throughout the day. This will engage the kids in the elemental forces at play by the coast, giving them a fuller understanding of what nature can teach us. Read our Natural Signs blog here.

Relax

Once you’ve returned to your retreat, the kids should be tired out. If they still want to play, suggest drawing, journaling or scrapbooking moments of the day, or set up a board game out on your balcony. Your beach retreat is equipped with all the entertainment you need for an evening in, so you can sit back, relax, and indulge in a well-deserved glass of wine.

Discover perfect large self-catering family holiday lets for summer, offering spacious accommodations and unforgettable experiences along the Cornish coast.

Paddleboard days

The evenings are lighter and the weather is getting warmer. The summer season is on its way, and sunnier days are the perfect opportunity to explore more of Cornwall via the sea.

Paddleboarding is the dream spring and summer activity – it’s slow and laid back, allowing you to soak up the scenery as you glide down calm estuaries, but still provides a challenge in balance when you go to stand up!

Once you’ve mastered this relaxing watersport, all you need to do is hire a board and get out on the water. Here’s our run down of the best (and lesser known) spots for paddleboarding around Cornwall this year.

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

Fowey

This pretty fishing village sits around a beautiful estuary which attracts kayakers and swimmers alongside stand up paddleboarders all year round. Before or after your paddleboard, grab a drink from one of the riverside bars and cafes and soak up the bustling, cheery atmosphere of this happy town.

Discover coastal charm at Fowey, South Cornwall, with Beach Retreats.

Helford River

This beautiful tree lined creek offers a lovely quiet spot for a paddleboard. With clear water and an abundance of wildlife living along the shores, the Helford River is great for nature lovers or anyone looking to get away from the summer crowds. Reach Helford just a short drive from our Falmouth retreats.

River Gannel

At low tide, you’ll find a bank of ridged sand, but at high tide, this tidal river fills with turquoise water perfect for paddleboarding. With plenty of paths from Newquay and Fistral beach leading to the Gannel, there’s many easy access launch points. Glide past tropical plants and higgeldy gardens towards Crantock beach, taking in the sight of wild sea birds as you go.

Browse our retreats near the River Gannel, including Heron House which features a gate at the bottom of the garden which leads directly onto the river bank.

Kingsand & Cawsand

With beautifully calm seas, these south coast beaches are perfect for idyllic paddleboarding days out on the water. Sitting next to one another, you can enjoy a relaxing stroll around the villages and a coffee from the beachfront café before floating out onto the crystal clear shores.

Our Cawsand retreats are literally seconds from the sand, too, making paddleboarding sessions easy.

Camel Estuary

This bright blue estuary lies between Padstow and Rock, and on a summer’s day you’ll see regular boat trips, ferries and water taxis crossing the water, alongside paddleboarders and kayakers enjoying the flat conditions. With both Padstow and Rock great foodie destinations, whichever side you set off from you’ll have plenty of delicious options to refuel once you dock.

Find your next holiday location and enjoy days drifting along the water.

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

Must See Places in Cornwall | Top 10 List

Beyond Cornwall’s sandy beaches, you’ll find exquisite gardens, cultural attractions and a rich history. If you’re planning a trip to Cornwall for the first time and aren’t sure on the best places to visit, we’ve produced a list of the top 10 must-see places in Cornwall, ensuring you won’t miss a thing on your holiday.

Find out why Christmas time is the best time to visit Cornwall and some of our holiday retreats to stay in at Christmas time.

The Eden Project

A unique and innovative eco-project, the Eden Project is an absolute must-see on your visit to Cornwall. This stunning global garden consists of tropical biomes the size of 30 football pitches, including the rainforest biome, home to 1000 species of tropical plants, a fully running waterfall and a suspended canopy walkway. Adjacent to this you’ll find the Mediterranean biome, filled to the brim with spiky cacti and ancient olive trees. The site also has an impressive stage where the Eden Sessions are held, seeing performances from world-famous musicians, an ice rink in winter and a science centre featuring fascinating and educational installations.

Image credit: Matt Jessop via Visit Cornwall

South West Coast Path

Another unmissable activity is the South West Coast Path. Stretching for 630 miles and wrapping around the Cornish coast, it is an unforgettable trail featuring some of the most spectacular coastal vistas in the country. If you’re staying by the beach, you are bound to be close to a stretch of the path, on which you can set out on a variety of walks past dramatic cliff edges, fields of sea pinks and secret coves. All of our retreats are within walking distance to the coast and in easy reach to the coast path, meaning you can hop on it and head out on an adventure in no time.

St Michael’s Mount

Set off Marazion beach is this must-see tiny island, featuring an ancient castle and a cobbled causeway that disappears under the tide twice a day. When the tide is out the causeway is exposed, meaning you can take the 10 minute walk across to the castle. If you’re planning to get back to the mainland on foot, you’ll need to check the tides– the tide floods in faster than you might imagine, so always leave yourself a healthy margin for error. When the island is cut off by the tide, small boats run between the pier at Marazion beach and the harbour on the Mount. These run throughout the day in spring and summer but less frequently at other times.

Lost Gardens of Heligan

Cornwall isn’t all just sandy beaches and sparkling oceans. Inland from the shores you’ll come across gardens rich in history and lush vegetation. The Lost Gardens of Heligan are perhaps Cornwall’s most famous gardens, and were rediscovered and reawakened following WW1.

Image credit: Toby Strong

Tintagel Castle

For breathtaking panoramas and untouched history, head to this sleepy Cornish town on the North coast which conceals a dramatic historical castle behind its village streets. You can walk up onto the cliff paths and have access to the castle, where you can uncover the tales of King Arthur.

Image credit: Matt Jessop via Visit Cornwall

Tate St Ives

Looking to get your fix of art during your stay in Cornwall? Head to the county’s best art gallery, the Tate, for a creative experience. It’s located in St Ives, the heart of the artistic scene in Cornwall which is known for its unique light which casts a soft blue glow off the sea. Here, sculptor Barbara Hepworth made some of her most influential work, much of which is showcased in the Tate and the nearby Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden.

Minack Theatre

Watch a play before dramatic clifftop panoramas at the Minack Theatre, an impressive open air theatre situated above Porthcurno beach. If the weather is obliging, the Minack feels like a tiny Greek amphitheatre; the sea here seems bluer than elsewhere in Cornwall, the sand of Porthcurno beach below appears whiter. The theatre was carved from the unrelentingly hard granite of the Cornish coast by Rowena Cade; it took many years of hard physical labour through the harsh coastal winters to construct and is a monument to dogged perseverance. The story is told at the Minack’s visitor centre, which is well worth a look even if you don’t see a play.

National Trust sites

Cornwall is home to countless National Trust sites, from stretches of coast path to historical houses and gardens. Our particular favourites are Wheal Coates mine in St Agnes, the Roseland peninsula, Lanhydrock country house and Kynance cove in the Lizard. Browse their website to find your nearest National Trust site- they make for a great day out.

Surfing at Fistral beach

Fistral is the nation’s surfing capital and is known for its consistent waves, intense sunsets and lively atmosphere. When visiting Cornwall, it’s highly recommended that you try your hand at surfing – there are plenty of places in the town and on the beach where you can hire equipment and book onto lessons. Or, just sit back on a summer’s evening and watch the surfers rolling in when the swell is rising – it’s truly a must see.

Chasing waterfalls

Alongside acres of beautiful woodland, there are a handful of waterfalls dotted around Cornwall, often concealed deep into nature trails. Visit St Nectan’s Glen, near Tintagel and Boscastle, an area of woodland bursting with mystical tales of piskies and fairies. Here, you will find St Nectan’s Kieve, a spectacular sixty foot waterfall seen through a hole in the rocks. Or, visit Golitha Falls near Liskeard, a cascading waterfall set in a wooded valley.

Interested in finding the best walks in Cornwall? Check out our blog on our favourite autumnal walks.

Out in the wild

There’s a world of wildlife out there in the untamed coastal waters of Cornwall. Finding it requires patience, luck and respect. We struck out by boat in search of this natural wonder…

Still, transparent water, jagged, rocky cliffs, open, stretching skies: our view from Coast Boat Trips’ lively rib certainly delivers. But would the wildlife?

Embarking from Penzance we zip out to sea and towards Land’s End in search of marine animals in their natural habitat.

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

Fast and fun, the boat bounces west to pass the harbour town of Mousehole and the dramatic cove at Pedn Vounder, before capturing a majestic view of the granite rocks where the Minack Theatre lives.

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

“The captain slows the engine and we wait. Our patience is rewarded.”

As we swing around the peninsula at Land’s End, we spot a single dolphin emerging from the water about 30 metres away. The captain slows the engine and we wait. Our patience is rewarded. A pod of common dolphins gathers around the boat, jumping from the water. One dolphin comes up close to the left of the boat where we can see it swimming in the clear water.

All around the coastline we encounter different wildlife: seals stretched out on rocky outcrops, sea birds swooping and circling, shy porpoises swimming deep and emerging occasionally for air.

As we take in the sights, we get expert commentary on the local history, the marine conditions and wildlife, discovering that dolphins keep swimming even when asleep, slowly bobbing in and out of the water on autopilot.

Seasonal spotting

Our experience on the water around West Cornwall was magical and exciting, but how common is it to encounter marine wildlife around the coast?

“Summer and autumn are some of the busiest times for marine wildlife,” says Matt Slater, Marine Conservation Officer at Cornwall Wildlife Trust.

“Common dolphins are becoming an increasingly common sight around our coast; there’s a very high chance you’ll see them. They’re quite small and enjoy swimming in the wake of the bow wave created by a boat.”

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

Image credit: Matt Slater

“Summer and autumn is also when ocean dwellers that like warmer water venture into Cornish waters. In the last six years we’ve also started seeing Atlantic blue fin tuna.”

As we found, porpoises, a smaller cetacean, are harder to spot. Matt says, like dolphins, porpoises are also likely to be seen in summer and autumn; although, sightings are also reported in spring.

Image credit: Niki Clear, Manx Wildlife Trust

And there’s a lot more possible encounters out there during this time of year, says Matt.

“Summer and autumn is also when ocean dwellers that like warmer water venture into Cornish waters.

“In the last six years we’ve also started seeing Atlantic blue fin tuna. They can reach two metres in length and can be seen when they’re coming to the surface to catch their prey,” Matt continues.

Another oceanic visitor is the leatherback turtle. “It’s the largest turtle species in the world. It has a soft shell and feeds on jellyfish. In a summer when we have a lot of jellyfish visiting, you have the most chance of seeing them,” explains Matt.

Matt says that seals are also thriving in Cornish waters, and during this time of year pregnant females, feeding on large amounts of fish, will stretch out in the sun to warm up.

“This helps them digest all the food they’re taking on for their pups. By late summer and early autumn they find secluded, peaceful coves to give birth.”

Image credit: Caz Waddell

Into winter and spring, while warm water visitors are absent, it might be the time to spot something bigger.

“We can also be visited by whales; the commonest is the minke whale, but we’ve also had records of much larger whales. If you’re out spotting wildlife in winter you could be extremely lucky and see a humpback or fin whale,” says Matt.

Wild encounters

With so much wildlife hunting, nesting and travelling through and around the Cornish coast it’s vital we keep them safe and help them to thrive.

Taking a guided tour to find wildlife helps ensure you’re respecting the animals you see and causing little disturbance. Often that’s about keeping your distance and using binoculars rather than trying to get too close. You can find out more about what to do via the Cornwall Marine and Costal Code.

If you’re visiting with your dog, it’s best to use a lead when walking near sea birds, advises Matt. Birds can be frightened and cliffs can be perilous for pets. During spring, dogs should avoid disturbing the ground-nesting skylarks that have their home in cliff-top habitats.

“If you do come across a seal on a beach or rocks, it’s important to keep dogs far enough away and on a lead to avoid disturbance or risk of injury,” says Matt.

While some beaches have restrictions on access for dogs during the summer, other beaches do not and there’s times at the beginning and end of the day when dogs are allowed on most beaches.

“Well behaved dogs are fine to be off the lead on the beach,” says Matt, “but you need to have good recall if you do spot wildlife so a dog can quickly be put on their lead.”

As we experienced, there’s an abundance of natural wonders out there to be found, with a little patience and luck on your side. And knowing what to do when you are lucky enough to encounter marine life helps make for a thriving coastal habitat.

Seeking wildlife at sea

All around the coast you can find wildlife spotting tours with good practices for limited marine disturbance.

Find out more about Coast Boat Trips and Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s marine conservation work. You can also visit the Cornwall Marine and Coastal Code website for more on caring for the marine life when out and about along the coast.

Browse our West Cornwall retreats, where you’ll be close to this thriving area of sea and wildlife.

Get cold, get warm

Klys is all about embracing the coast in its winter guise, with added warmth inside. Choose from our klys selection for warming-up after being outdoors: a beachside sauna, a hearty pub lunch on the creek or stretching out in thermal waters.

Wintery, wind-swept clifftops, deserted creeks, chillingly refreshing waves, these winter treats by the sea are often best enjoyed if you can step into a captivating klys moment immediately afterwards or even before. We set out to find some of the best spots to warm-up and get that klys feeling – Cornish for snug, cosy – after enjoying the fresher air.

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

Walk to get warm

The Pandora Inn isn’t the only Cornish pub that enjoys a fine waterside setting and long history but it’s one of the best. The wood panelling and thatched roof of this 13^th-century inn make for the perfect klys setting.

While some customers may arrive by boat, the Pandora has made available a small collection of walks that begin near Mylor Creek and include the inn as part of a circular route, created by south west walks writer Sue Viccars.

Walking down to the Pandora Inn

Image Credit: @bethia_naughton

Explore magical creek-side landscapes in relative tranquility. And if the rain sets in, or you’re feeling the cold, the promise of a locally-sourced lunch or just a warm drink in the ancient inn keeps things klys.

Cold water to thermal water

Getting warm after a cold water plunge can sometimes be hard work, but combining a cold water swim in the Jubilee Pool’s art deco seawater lido with a warming dip in the Geothermal Pool is sublime. Of course, if you’re cold enough just being out and about in bracing onshore winds, the Geothermal option comes standalone too.

Image credit: @jessica_hardy12

Built dramatically into the coastline at Battery Rocks in Penzance in the 1930s, the pool began its new life as a community-owned asset, with added Geothermal Pool, in 2020. The pool reopens for 2023 on 17 January 2023, with booking available now for coming weeks. Post-swim warmth is also available in the café, a bright space for food and drinks poolside.

Post or pre-surf sauna?

Dotted around some of north Cornwall’s surfing hotspots you can find the soft, klys warmth of timber-clad saunas – bringing our Cornish version of hygge a little closer to its Scandinavian relative.

Image credit: Saunas by the Sea

At Baby Bay, Polzeath and Harlyn Bay, Saunas By the Sea, brings the restorative, relaxing sauna experience to the beach promising time to still body and mind after coastal exhilaration.

Just wrapping up its North Fistral residency is the Olla Hiki Sauna. This sauna experience is described as the chance to “enjoy the cosy and immersive heat of the sauna and then take the plunge into a cold river, the sea or throw a water bucket over you to reinvigorate and to feel truly alive.”

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

Find your folk

After a day in the elements, why not warm the soul with an inherited melody from Cornwall’s celtic heritage and lyrics stirring-up past sailing adventures. Country pubs and town hotels host local folk clubs of varying styles across Cornwall from Bude to Penzance every week.

Take a chance on a thatched roof and a roaring fire, or make a date via Folk in Cornwall Magazine. Venues include the centuries’ old Albion Inn in the village of Crantock on the north cost and the delightfully cosy Moth and Moon in the centre of Falmouth, further south.

Make your winter break more klys out in the winter wilds, paired with a relaxing, restorative time warmed by the earth at Jubilee Pool, wood fire sauna-style or old-time fireside.

Find your place by the sea for a klys escape.

Discover transformation with our guide to rejuvenating escapes and soulful experiences, promising renewal and inspiration.

Top 10 Cornish Christmas markets for 2022

Christmas is coming, and that means one thing – Christmas markets. Inspired by Europe’s vibrant market culture, this year will see Cornish towns and villages deck the halls, and the streets, with festive cheer. With fresh Cornish produce, bespoke arts and crafts, delightful street food and plenty of mulled wine, a Christmas market in Cornwall is the best way to get into the spirit of the season, and pick up some stocking fillers along the way.

Here’s our pick of the best Christmas markets in Cornwall.

Find out why Christmas time is the best time to visit Cornwall and some of our holiday retreats to stay in at Christmas time.

Padstow Christmas Festival / 1 – 4 December

In the heart of Padstow you’ll find one of the largest Christmas festivals in Cornwall. With celebrity chefs such as Rick Stein and Paul Ainsworth making an appearance, the streets will be filled with the aromas of delectable seafood from a range of cooking demos. Visitors can also fill their boots (and stockings) at the Christmas market, with stalls selling artisan bread, meats, cheeses, gin, craft beers and much more. Topped off with a firework display, lantern parade and live music, this is a great way to get festive as December begins.

Browse our retreats near Padstow.

Fowey Christmas Market / 2 – 4 December

This popular Christmas market sees a variety of stalls line the streets of this picture-perfect harbour town. Find the very best of local handmade goods, from artwork, crafts, jewellery, food and drink, and give a loved one a gift that can’t be found elsewhere. The market opens with a Father Christmas and Fowey Town Band Parade through the town, and each day there will be live music and street performers spreading Christmas cheer.

Stay in Fowey this Christmas.

Cornwall Christmas market @ the Eden Project / 23 – 24 November

The mesmerising Eden Project will be opening their doors on the 23^rd and 24^th of November for their vibrant Christmas market. With up to 70 independent stalls, you won’t find a better setting for a Christmas fair, with the tropical rainforest biome, Mediterranean biome and sprawling gardens to explore. Pre book your visit for either the evening of the 23^rd where you can enjoy wine and supper included in your ticket price, or the daytime fair on the 24^th which includes lunch, wine and free admission to Eden.

Find a retreat nearby.

Bude Beach Huts / 10 – 11 December

Step into Christmas, seaside style, at Bude’s beach hut market. The Beach Huts will be transformed into local stalls, selling a wide range of handmade, artisan goodies suitable for all ages. Set on the beautiful Crooklets beach, enjoy a takeaway lunch or hot drink on the sand before getting stuck into some serious Christmas shopping.

Stay in Bude this Christmas.

Porthleven Christmas Market / 2 – 4 December

This historic harbour will come to life on the 2 – 4 December with a selection of handpicked stalls, showcasing the very best of Cornish produce and crafts. If you’ve got little ones in tow, Porthleven market is perfect, as Santa will be making a special appearance!

Retreats in Porthleven.

Truro Made in Cornwall Fair / 25^th & 26^th November

Head to the capital of Cornwall for a festive Christmas fair. Its tradition to head to Truro for its annual late-night shopping season, and this Christmas market kicks things off, allowing you to sample unique goods for sale. With a backdrop of fairy lights and the town’s striking Cathedral, a visit here will get you in the mood for Christmas.

Find a Cornish Christmas break.

St Ives Christmas market / 2 – 4 December

St Ives is Cornwall’s artistic hub, with a magical quality of light that has inspired painters and sculptors for decades. This year, browse their very own Christmas market, where you’ll find one-of-a-kind pieces, alongside live music and festive drinks. Once you’ve explored, why not check out the Tate gallery or head into the town for more boutique shops and restaurants?

Sleep in St Ives.

Healey’s Cider Farm Festive weekends / 12 November – 18 December

Spanning over six weekends, this family friendly farm will transform into a festive haven filled with crafts, Christmas music, mulled cider and hearty food. Starting from mid November, this event is sure to get you in the Christmas spirit, and allows you to start ticking off the Christmas wish lists.

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

Penryn Jubilee Wharf Fair / 10 – 11 December

Celebrate the first creative Christmas market at Penryn, hosting a range of stalls selling jewellery, ceramics, gifts, candles, skin care and tasty treats. Treat your loved ones, or yourself, to a bespoke Cornish creation this Christmas.

Stay in Falmouth.

Wadebridge Christmas market / 2 December

All of the family will love this festive event, where a roaming Santa and cheeky elves will be around to hand out sweets to the children. With late night shopping, charity stalls, a Christmas shop window competition, feel the buzz of the festive season in this coastal town halfway between Padstow and Polzeath.

Find a retreat on Cornwall’s north coast.

Discover five enchanting Christmas Day walks in Cornwall, where stunning landscapes and festive cheer create a magical holiday experience.

The 10 best beaches to surf in Cornwall

Have you got a thirst for being amongst the waves? Cornwall’s adrenaline-fuelled surf scene thrives all year round, with surf spots suitable for beginners to world-class pros. Rolling sets and foamy swells are plentiful in Cornwall, especially on the north coast where the exposure to the Atlantic creates big, consistent waves.

If you’ve never tried surfing before, or have a bit of experience and want to improve your skills, many of the popular beaches have their own surf schools where you can dive in with the experts. From full one-on-one lessons, to wetsuit and board hire, there’s an option for everyone whether you need instructor support or prefer to go it alone.

With hundreds of beaches to choose from, it can be hard to figure out where’s best to get suited up and head in. That’s why we’ve created a handy guide to the 10 best surfing beaches in Cornwall, meaning you can waste less time searching and more time in the surf.

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

We’ve got retreats within walking distance of all of these popular surfing beaches, so you can head straight from the water and back home on foot, without even needing to change. Find your surf retreat here.

Find the best spots for a post-surf bite to eat or coffee and discover our favourite surf beach cafes in Cornwall.

Fistral Beach, Newquay

One of the most famous surfing beaches on the planet, Fistral Beach is a wide, west-facing beach on the north coast, and its exposure to Atlantic swells ensures consistent waves all year round. The Cribbar, at the north end of the beach, is a famous big wave location, with waves reaching as high as 40 feet. Stand and watch from the headland as the pros tackle it head on, taking in the spray from overhead.

Fistral Beach hosts many national and international surfing competitions, which draw thousands of visitors, and is also the base for annual music and surf festival Boardmasters.

Multiple car parks next to the beach and nearby, charges apply. Free street parking above Fistral South.
Lifeguards daily from 9^th April – 30^th 10am – 6pm patrol.
Surf equipment hire and lessons.

Surf at sunset while staying at a Fistral retreat.

Gwithian Towans, Hayle

Gwithian is one of the best places to catch a clean wave in Cornwall, whilst avoiding the crowds. Nestled in the heart of the Towans nature reserve, you’ll be surfing amongst untouched beauty and wildlife. Gwithian was recently listed by the Sunday Times in the ‘Top 10 Surf Locations in England’, and makes up part of the three miles of golden sand which stretch from St Ives to Godrevy Head.

A handful of small car parks nearby, charges apply.
Lifeguards daily during Easter school holidays, daily from 30 April – 25 September, weekends only 1 – 16 October and daily during October half term. 10am – 6pm patrol.
Surf equipment hire and lessons.

Seek out a seaside Hayle retreat.

Perranporth beach

Perranporth offers plenty of space to surf, alongside a large beach backed with sand dunes for any little ones to paddle and build sandcastles. For beginners, the beach is more sheltered towards the Droskyn Point end, while the biggest waves can be found at Penhale. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, this classic seaside village has a range of eateries where you can refuel with some fish and chips.

3 car parks nearby, charges apply.
Lifeguards daily from 9^th April – 30^th 10am – 6pm patrol.
Surf equipment hire and lessons.

Watch the swell surge from a Perranporth retreat.

Watergate Bay

If you want to avoid the crowds at Fistral, Watergate is your best bet. With an expanse of beach home to consistent swell, this north coast destination is a surfer’s paradise. Waves vary from small and clean to huge and challenging, depending on conditions and swell, so be sure to check local surf reports before heading in!

3 car parks nearby, charges apply. Limited free parking at the top of the hill.
Lifeguards daily during Easter school holidays, daily from 30 April – 25 September, weekends only 1 – 16 October and daily during October half term. 10am – 6pm patrol.
Surf equipment hire and lessons.

Jump from bed to board at a Watergate Bay retreat.

Widemouth Bay

This popular surfing spot stretches over a mile and a half, and it’s common to see a variety of abilities in the surf here. Near to Bude, this is a great option if you’re staying in either area.

Multiple car parks next to the beach and nearby, charges apply.
Lifeguards daily during Easter school holidays, daily from 30^th April – 25^th September, weekends only 1^st – 16^th October and daily during October half term. 10am – 6pm patrol.
Surf equipment hire and lessons.

Explore the south coast from a Widemouth Bay retreat.

Porthleven beach

This beach isn’t for the beginners, but if you’ve got some skills with a surfboard then you’re guaranteed an adrenaline-filled ride. The powerful waves break onto a shallow reef, creating a wild ride for any surfers who get on board.

One small car park nearby and one small car park above the town, charges apply.
Lifeguards daily from 9 July – 4 September.

Find the perfect Porthleven retreat.

Polzeath beach

This family favourite sandy spot is perfect for beginners, with gentle but consistent swell and slow waves. Whether you’re hopping on a surfboard or bodyboard, this north Cornwall location won’t disappoint.

Multiple car parks next to the beach and nearby, charges apply.
Lifeguards daily during Easter school holidays, daily from 30 April – 25 September, weekends only 1 – 16 October and daily during October half term. 10am – 6pm patrol.
Surf equipment hire and lessons.

Tackle the waves at a Polzeath retreat.

Porthtowan beach

Porthtowan is a true locals spot during the winter and also a popular visitor spot in summer. Home to lively waves and a beautiful sandy beach, Porthtowan makes for a great surf spot if you’re staying nearby.

One large car park close to the beach, charges apply.
Lifeguards daily during Easter school holidays, daily from 30 April – 25 September, weekends only 1 – 16 October and daily during October half term. 10am – 6pm patrol.

Be by the beach at a Porthtowan retreat.

Holywell Bay

Holywell Bay is a quieter option for those seeking sand dunes, a rugged coastpath and surfable waves. A beautiful, spacious beach to simply relax on, Holywell has enough room for a bit of privacy even at its busiest. The surf here requires a bit of luck and skill, due to the moving tides, but its certainly an option if you want somewhere walkable from your Holywell retreat.

One large car park close to the beach, charges apply.
Lifeguards daily 14 May – 25 September, 10am – 6pm patrol.

Seek out a Holywell retreat.

Whitsand Bay

Hidden away in the corner of south east Cornwall, this beach is one of the county’s hidden gems. With a dramatic cliffscape dotted with mini beach shacks, the walk down to the sand is almost as exhilarating as the waves. The surf is slightly more unreliable than more popular destinations, but is great for escaping the crowds and practising your moves in private.

Multiple car parks next to the beach and nearby, charges apply. Easiest access is from Tregantle Fort car park.
Lifeguards daily during Easter school holidays, daily from 30 April – 25 September, weekends only 1 – 16 October and daily during October half term. 10am – 6pm patrol.
Surf equipment hire and lessons.

Enjoy some calm at a Whitsand Bay retreat.

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

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