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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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….

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.

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.

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.

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.

10 reasons to stay in Hayle

Ever considered holidaying in Hayle? This estuary town sits on a dramatic stretch of the west Cornwall coast, between St Ives and Gwithian, and is home to Cornwall’s longest beach, Gwithian Towans, which stretches three miles from Hayle to Godrevy head.

Despite its natural beauty, Hayle is often the lesser spoken-about destination compared to the nearby holiday hotspots of St Ives and Mousehole. We’ve come up with 10 reasons why you should pick Hayle for your next trip to Cornwall.

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

Away from the crowds

Hayle is just outside of the bustling streets of St Ives, and you’ll find quieter beaches and plenty of untouched nature to explore. Due to the size of its sandy beach, you’ll always have space to yourself, even on the busiest of summer days.

The train into St Ives

If you do fancy an excursion out of town, the five minute train ride from Hayle to St Ives is one of the most scenic in the UK. Be sure to grab a window seat on the right hand side, as you’ll pass the tropical waters of Carbis Bay and will have panoramic views of St Ives ahead of you, spanning all the way back towards Godrevy in the distance.

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

Godrevy lighthouse

Further along the three mile stretch of beach, you’ll come across Godrevy, where you can see the iconic lighthouse standing proud on the skyline. This very lighthouse inspired Virginia Woolf’s novel To the Lighthouse, and is a must see on your visit to Hayle.

The best sunsets

As Hayle is on the north west coast of Cornwall, the sun sets directly above its horizon, meaning fiery red sunset skies. Head out along the coast path towards Godrevy, where you can see it set behind the lighthouse, causing the iconic white building to glow gold.

Seal spotting

Walk past Godrevy lighthouse and over the National Trust owned headland and you’ll come to the inaccessible Mutton Cove, home to a Grey seal colony. Because it can’t be reached by humans, it’s a perfect place for them to gather and bask, while interested wildlife spotters can peer down unobtrusively from above.

Food and drink

Hayle is home to an array of delectable eats, from its iconic Philps pasties which are famous around Cornwall to fine dining with a sea view in many waterfront restaurants. Check out our guide to eating out in Hayle for more recommendations.

Nature and sand dunes

Beyond its sandy shores lies a fascinating natural landscape to explore. Look around Upton Towans nature reserve that leads onto a mass of sand dunes which border the beach. Or take a walk or cycle along the RSPB reserve, passing the estuary, tidal pools and marsh in and around the town.

Bird watching

The estuary is a great spot for wildlife, as it attracts various flocks of birds throughout the seasons. Spend a day around the wetlands area and you may catch a rare sighting. The nearby Saltings nature reserve is also a prime place for murmurations in the shoulder months.

Coastal walks

From Hayle you also have easy access to the South West Coast Path, where you can get to St Ives on foot. The walk is just over six miles, but the coastal views along the way and the promise of a seafood lunch in St Ives will keep you going.

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

Watersports

Gwithian is a great spot for budding surfers to pros, with its wide shoreline and consistent swell. The area is also famous for windsurfing. There is a selection of surf and watersports schools dotted along the coast, meaning you can hire equipment and head out on a lesson if you don’t feel confident in the water.

Find out more about Hayle here, and take a look at our retreats in Hayle for your next trip below.

Discover Wild Swimming in Cornwall

There is something particularly freeing about wild swimming with the salty water, fresh air and endless horizon stretching ahead of you, not to mention ‘finding your own community, self-care and an affinity with nature through cold water’.

Being surrounded by water on three sides, we’re spoilt for choice on wild swimming locations in Cornwall. Whether you are looking to swim in the calms of a river, beside the sandy shore of a beach or brave the wilds of the Atlantic, we speak to Co Founder of Wild Swimming Cornwall Lydia Paleschi for her top tips for beginners, favourite locations and how to stay safe.

***Wild Swimming Cornwall was co founded by Lydia Paleschi, Bethany Allen and Max Campbell and their aim is to encourage more people to take part in wild swimming and to experience its benefits in order to lead a happier, healthier and more fulfilling life.***

Can you describe the feeling you get when you first plunge into the water?

Feelings of apprehension, excitement and a battle of wills between our body and our mind begin before entering the water. However, on overcoming the resistance and taking the plunge, this is replaced with feelings of achievement, bravery and invigoration. Afterwards, we feel refreshed, revitalised and ready to face the day! The more you wild swim, the more you come to love this feeling.

What’s the best way to enter the water, slowly or just jump in?

It’s best to enter the water slowly, particularly if you’re new to cold water swimming. This gives your body a chance to adjust to the cold water shock and for you to catch your breath. Sometimes the cold can make us gasp, so for the first few minutes it’s best not to talk or swim and to focus on acclimatising.

What happens to the body when entering cold water?

As we dip into the water, the body enters into cold water shock as a response to rapid skin cooling. This is experienced at different temperatures for each person, but the colder the water the more likely it is to happen. As a result, we can expect to gasp and our heart rate increases. In order to protect our core temperature from dropping, warm blood rushes from our extremities (our hands, feet and arms) to our core. As we stay in the water for longer, our muscles and nerves begin to cool too. This can lead to a loss in dexterity and movement. Cold water swimming carries a risk of hyperthermia, so it’s important we don’t stay in the water for too long. If you start to shiver or feel warm, remove yourself from the water and get dry quickly.

It’s important to know that cold water shock puts increased pressure on the heart, so make sure you know you’re fit and healthy before going for a wild swim and putting your body under this stress.

Can you tell us your favourite wild swimming location in Cornwall?

With so many great locations for swimming in Cornwall, this one is tough to answer. However, we are huge fans of the Helford River spots which are in our local area.

Do you have any top tips for keeping warm when you exit the water?

All the tips! Particularly in winter, it’s really important to be prepared for a wild swim. Ensure you have plenty of layers with you and a warm drink for when you come out. The main thing is to get dressed as quickly as possible. Prioritise your extremities by getting a hat on your head as soon as possible and socks on your feet. We like to wrap our clothes around a warm drink or hot water bottle whilst we’re in the water so that they’re lovely and toasty when we’re getting changed back into them. Going for a short walk afterwards can help you to warm back up and something sugary to eat never goes amiss!

What are the key benefits to cold water swimming?

According to the NHS, regular swimming can reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke. Cold water swimming comes with the additional benefits of increased metabolism and immunity, plus reduced inflammation.

There are a huge number of mental health benefits to be experienced too. Wild swimming is a form of ecotherapy and a way to practice mindfulness. On top of this, the experience of cold water shock improves the body’s stress response, increases the levels of dopamine in the body and is a way for us to build our confidence, resilience and bravery.

You can find detailed information on the benefits of wild swimming via our website.

What wildlife have you come across while wild swimming?

We come across a broad range of wildlife not only whilst wild swimming, but also as we travel to and from swimming locations. In the past year, we’ve been in the water with seals, jellyfish, fish, swans and cormorants. However, we will have seen many more species of birds, squirrels, hedgehogs and a wonderful selection of plants on the way there and back too.

Are there any groups in Cornwall our guests can meet up with during their stay?

Yes! Cornwall is an excellent place to wild swim and the number of wild swimming groups dotted around the county are a reflection of that. We’ve put together an interactive map on our website to make it easier for people to find a group near to them. This is accessible via the Find Your Group page on our website.

Lastly, do you have any words of wisdom for our guests at Beach Retreats before they take their first Cornwall dip?

It is imperative that you put safety first and conduct a risk assessment before wild swimming. We also recommend that you never swim alone. Whilst there is plenty to be gained from wild swimming, the ocean can be a dangerous place and must be respected. You can find full details on safety via our website and the RNLI website.

We’ve also written a Beginner’s Guide to Wild Swimming for those who are looking for advice on how to take the plunge.

Follow Lydia’s top tips and swimming locations on the Wild Swimming Cornwall Instagram.

10 Reasons for a Cornwall Workation

Workation? Beachworking? The Anyplace Workplace? Whatever it’s called, we’re all daydreaming about spending more time with our toes in the sand. With remote working fast becoming the norm, and overseas travel still so unpredictable, it’s the ideal time to do business by the beach and take a long stay in Cornwall. Here are 10 reasons why Cornwall is perfect for a workcation.

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

1: SEA AIR

Waking up to the echo of the ocean and breathing lungs full of fresh sea air does wonders for your well-being and motivation. Sip your coffee on the balcony, pad along the shoreline or stretch out with some yoga on the beach before you hit the computer and get down to business. By the time you start work, you’ll be bursting with energy and inspiration.

2: SEA VIEWS

In this age of remote working, your boss doesn’t care where you flip open your laptop as long as you’re doing your job well. So, where better to work than at a desk with a sea view? Many of our properties boast high spec living and working spaces that directly gaze over the ocean, so you can watch the ebb and flow while you work, or take beach breaks between calls.

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

3: DE-STRESS

Now more than ever, pressure of work can leave us all feeling overwhelmed and stressed out at times. But it’s been proved that work is less stressful when you live by the sea. How? Blue mind theories suggest that being beside the water reduces cortisol levels (the stress hormone), so a break by the ocean will leave you feeling calmer, more creative and ready to tackle your workload.

4: BOARD MEETINGS

A workation gives you plenty of time to get to grips with surfing. A sport that takes dogged determination and depends on the ever-changing winds and tides, a longer stay will buy you time to work on your wave-riding skills. From dawnies (surfer talk for taking to the waves at sunrise), to lunchtime power surfs and post-work sunset slides, you’ll get plenty of practise; plus the breaks are less crowded out of peak holiday season.

5: TIME TO CONNECT

Connect to your natural surroundings, not just your phone or computer. While technology enables us to connect virtually and work from anywhere, it has also made us more reliant on our devices. Working by the beach gives you chance to switch your focus from your screen to the seascapes, and take time out to reconnect with nature, your environment, your emotions and your loved ones.

6: NO COMMUTE

Ditch the commute and you’ve got plenty of time on your hands to make the most of your seaside location before and after work. So, instead of rush hour traffic or cramming onto the metro, how about stretching into the day with yoga on the beach, a morning surf or a stroll in the shallows? Or, if you prefer a lazy start, sip your coffee and catch up on the news with the ocean and sea gulls as your soundtrack.

7: NEW SURROUNDINGS

Imagine swapping your daily grind for a designer beachside pad with every mod con at your fingertips. After an unsettled year, a change of scenery can change the tide on your perspective, make you feel more positive and allow you to explore your freedom, instead of feeling hemmed in by the restrictions inflicted by the pandemic.

8: SEA SWIMS

Keep your mind and body in peak condition with regular, bracing sea swims. Proven to boost your immune system, mental health and general wellbeing, a coldwater ocean dip is just what you need to start your day feeling charged and ready to take on whatever tasks your job throws at you.

9: FOODIE EXPERIENCES

Cornwall is a food Mecca renowned for its smorgasbord of fresh ingredients plucked from the coast and countryside. Which means that while you’re on workation you can feast to your heart’s content on seasonal delights from nature’s larder. Fill up in farm shops, pick up a catch fresh from the trawler and get creative in your coastal kitchen. Or, bag a table at one of Cornwall’s culinary gems and let the talented chefs do the work.

10: THE OFFICE IS NEVER TOO FAR AWAY

Sometimes work bites and the only solution is to head back to the office or to meet a client face-to-face. Being well connected by road, rail and air links, Cornwall is easy to access from all corners of the UK, so no work crisis is ever too far away to resolve.

We’re head over heels for where we live and feel lucky to have the coast on our doorsteps. Living by the sea lifts your spirits in the toughest of times. It changes your perspective, gives you pause, makes every moment mean more. So book an extended stay, make a beachside retreat your office and find that feeling for yourself in 2021. Your nine to five will thank you for it.

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

Search your chosen dates or contact us for help choose your office by the beach with your specific requirements.

10 Beach Activities for your holiday to Cornwall

Make the most of Cornwall’s natural playground, right on your doorstep.

Hunt for starfish in a Cornish rockpool, fly a kite on a golden beach and watch the sunset over the ocean. Our Beach Retreats beckon families to enjoy the simple pleasures of seaside life. Here are the top 10 activities to inspire you during your stay.

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

Rockpooling

Head to many beaches in Cornwall at low tide and visitors will be pleasantly surprised with hundreds of rockpools just waiting to be explored. You’ll be treated to a natural display of fascinating and tough creatures, including the Cornish Sucker fish, Worm Pipefish and the Common Shore Crab.

See our full guide to rockpooling and where to go.

Run down a sand dune

There’s nothing quite like standing at the top of a sand dune and shouting ‘I’m the king of the castle’ whilst running down the golden sand. In Cornwall there are many beaches where you can do just that. Some of our favourites include Crantock, Holywell Bay and Fistral beach.

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

Feast on a BBQ

After a full day of exploring Cornwall’s fantastic beaches, it’s time to bring the family back together and refuel with a Cornish BBQ. From locally caught mackerel to homemade buns and burgers, you’ll be in for a treat if you buy local. See our guide to eating local in Cornwall.

Go caving

There’s something quite enchanting about a secret cave in Cornwall, and luckily, we have many of them for you to explore. Our must visit cave is in Tintagel. Merlin’s Cave is steeped in history and perhaps the most magical of them all. Located beneath Tintagel Castle, it is 100 metres long passing completely through Tintagel Island from Tintagel Haven.

people in a cave

Build a sandcastle

Bring back those childhood memories and create new ones with a sandcastle competition for the whole family. If you’re really competitive, we love this article by the Telegraph on how to build the perfect sandcastle.

Jump the waves

If you’re not quite brave enough to go wild swimming or take up a surf lesson, or if you have little ones in tow, then jumping over the shallow waves is the one for you. Hold hands, count 1,2,3 and you’re off. (Be sure to stay in between the red and yellow flags and watch the tides).

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

Go surfing

Surfing should be on everyone’s checklist when holidaying in Cornwall. Get suited and booted and ride with the locals for a feeling like no other. Will you stand up on the board on your first try? Hire your wetsuit and board from a local surf school with lessons included for all abilities.

View the beach from a different angle

With panoramic views from all angles, we highly recommend walking part of the south west coast path during your beach day. Visitors are spoilt for choice on which direction to take with its 300-mile trail. Head to north Cornwall for the rugged cliff top walks or if you prefer, visit tropical South Cornwall and its hidden coves. Whatever path you take, you’ll find something different and exciting each turn you take.

Family Super SUP

New to the Newquay Activity Centre collection is the Super Stand Up Paddleboarding. Fun for the whole family, you’ll take on your fellow shipmates in a myriad of fun games including ‘King of the SUP’ and ‘Sumo SUP’. In addition to the guaranteed giggles, you’ll learn how to kneel and stand up paddle, perfect paddle strokes, navigate the coastline, and negotiate the swell and waves back to the beach. Find out more about Super SUP.

Go fishing

Fishing has enjoyed a long history in Cornwall and remains central to our local culture. Before you choose your rocky outcrop or traditional fishing boat to throw your line from, why not take some tips from the locals and see which spot suits you best. If you prefer a guided tour, there are many fishermen that take out both small and large groups.

Book your next break with Beach Retreats.

Yoga on a Cornish beach

We invited Next Wave Yoga to be our latest guest blogger, to give you plenty of inspiration for a relaxing Beach Retreats stay…

Let’s set the scene…

It’s 8.30am on a Monday morning with Next Wave Yoga. Instead of being near the end of your morning commute to work, or rushing the kids off to school, you are on a beach in Cornwall. Perhaps it is not just you, but the whole family is there with you. The beach is still quiet, there are only a few people walking their dogs. Instead of being sat on a train or in traffic you are sat on a yoga mat with sand between your toes and the sound of the sea and birds. Your yoga teacher asks you to close your eyes and for a few minutes just allow yourself to really listen to everything going on around you, to be ‘present’ and enjoy where you are in that moment.

It’s hard not to enjoy where you are when you are sitting on a beach with the sun on your back and listening to the sound of the waves. For the next hour you are guided through a yoga class that has been created specifically for you, with careful guidance and assistance when necessary. This ensures you have plenty of time to come back to ‘that place’ of just being still and listening to the world before rolling up your mat and heading off for breakfast.

What a great way to start the day.

yoga on the beach

We are exceptionally blessed in Cornwall to be surrounded by beautiful coastline, hidden coves and tucked away woodlands that are open for us to use as our ‘yoga studio’. Instead of four walls, air conditioning, false lighting and the person next to your mat being less than an inch away from yours, we want you to be able to experience space, the ability to move freely and breathe deeply. If you have never stood and intentionally taken lung fulls of fresh sea air before, you are in for a treat.

yoga with amy

The outdoors is part of a Cornish lifestyle and our environment is our greatest asset. We want to share it with you.

Over the years we have received an abundance of research into the effects of our modern and indoor lifestyle on our physical and mental health. Studies have shown how positive just a simple walk in the park or stroll across the beach can be and the longer you spend outside the more positive those impacts are. Just a 20 minute walk can improve short term memory, boost creativity, reduce stress and anxiety, allow for clearer thoughts, lower blood pressure and even reduce inflammation in the body.

Yoga also helps with all of these things – combining the two is pretty magical and the beauty of the practise is, it can be done anywhere you have space to roll out a mat. A lot of the yoga classes that we do are actually within holiday homes like Beach Retreats’ making use of the wide terraces, private gardens and beautiful views from open plan sitting rooms. This makes it easier for the whole family to join in.

yoga in the trees

We understand that your time away is precious so we bring the yoga studio to you.

It may be that you want to have just one class to end your stay or daily classes to really reap the full benefits, create your own vinyasa flow, experience yin, yoga nidra or even just master your Downward Dog – the choice is yours. You could even turn a day of your stay into a mini yoga retreat to include a morning and afternoon class, massage treatments, sound baths and even a cookery class with a nutritionist.

We want you to feel free to create what you need to help you truly, relax, recharge and ultimately go home feeling like you have a new found love for ‘self care’ and can take on the world. Maybe after one more Savasana…

For more information visit nextwaveyoga.co.uk or bespokeretreats.com.

A little more about Next Wave Yoga

Next Wave Yoga was created to make the benefits of yoga and massage accessible to all. Founded by Amy Williams, an experienced level 3 massage therapist and passionate yogi, we are a truly holistic approach to relaxation and healing based in Cornwall offering group yoga classes, private yoga classes, massage treatments, unique bespoke retreats and much more.

Next Wave specialises in tailoring experiences to the individual. That means anything from creating a plan for dealing with stress and anxiety through yoga or helping your aches and pains with deep tissue massage or getting all f the family together for some yoga fun on the beach.

It’s no secret that we think massage is a little bit magic. Helping to alleviate aches and pains, improve circulation, aid the lymphatic system, helps the body recover for sporting activities and injuries quicker and creates more space and mobility in the body. For the ultimate treat let us turn your beautiful holiday home into your own private spa for some time to truly relax and unwind.

Book your relaxing holiday with Beach Retreats.

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