SELF-CATERING HOLIDAYS ON A CORNISH BEACH Make footprints in the sand and explore as many of ’s beaches as you can…

BE AT HOME BY THE BEACH Beach Retreats boasts over 165 stylish self-catering properties, all within walking distance of the ocean and designed to go hand-in-hand with the coastal lifestyle. Wake up to the sound of the waves, plunge into beach life, brush the sand from your toes and get cosy by the log burner just footsteps from the sea.

BE INSPIRED There are more than 400 beaches in Cornwall and 300 miles of coast path. With Beach Retreats scattered from the tip to the toe of the county, we’ve travelled to every nook and cranny of this coastal haven. Whether you’ve got days or weeks to explore, this is our insider information to ensure you fully immerse yourself in the saltwater lifestyle.

EXPLORE On the Summer Solstice 2018, between sunrise and sunset, we broke the record for visiting the most Cornish beaches in one day. Starting at 5am in Cawsand and finishing at 9.30pm in , we stepped foot on 47 beautiful beaches.

All of our Beach Retreats are within a pebble’s skim of the . So we wanted to help celebrate the 40th anniversary of this stunning trail, by raising awareness and money to help maintain it. We’re passionate about Cornwall’s beaches and we want everyone to come and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery for years to come.

So what are you waiting for – how many Cornish beaches can you discover this year?

2 3 SUMMER SOLSTICE

21 June 4 beaches 16.5 hours

Cawsand - 5.00am Gwithian - .50pm Whitsand - 5.25am - 4.00pm ooe - 5.55am - 4.15pm Charlestown - 6.45am Porthtowan - 4.1pm Porthpean - 6.55am Trevaunance Cove - 4.pm Pentewan - .15am - 5.10pm Portmellon - .25am Holywell Bay - 5.0pm Gorran Haven - .40am Crantock - 5.55pm Porthluney Cove - .50am Fistral - 6.15pm Gyllyngvase - .05am ittle Fistral - 6.20pm Swanpool - .0am Towan - 6.0pm Maenporth - .40am Great Western - 6.40pm Cadgwith Cove - 10.40am Tolcarne - 6.50pm Kennack Sands - 10.50am usty Glaze - pm Kynance Cove - 11.20am Porth - .05pm - 11.55am - .10pm Praa Sands - 12.20pm Mawgan Porth - .20pm Mousehole - 1.10pm Porthcothan - .40pm - 1.5pm - .50pm Sennen - 1.50pm Rock - .15pm Porthmeor - 2.50pm - .25pm St Ives Harbour Beach - .05pm Widemouth Bay - .25pm Porthgwidden - .20pm Crooklets - .0pm Carbis Bay - .5pm 47 beaches on the longest day... follow the pictures from sunrise to sunset Explore sub-tropical gardens tumbling to secret beaches. Stay in fishermen’s cottages at the edge of smugglers’ coves. SOUTH Step foot on the most southerly point of mainland Britain. Float along estuaries that have inspired literary giants. CORNWALL Wander through meadows and countryside nudging pearly sands. CAWSAND - 5.05am

CAWSAND

Hunt for starfish, crabs and critters in the rock pools of this sheltered little cove where smugglers once unloaded their goods.

Watch sunrise from a smugglers’ cove, peering out to the first rays of daylight brushing the boats in Sound.

The beaches of Cornwall’s hidden corner are places of legend, beauty and contrast. Tucked into a nook on the wild , and neighbouring Cawsand were once a hive of smuggling activity. On the other side of , pad along Whitsand Bay’s vast golden sands and cove-hop to , listening out for the ghost of smuggler Silas Finn, said to haunt the cliffs at ’s Finnygook Beach.

5:05am: Cawsand

5:25am: Whitsand Bay Make footprints along three miles of golden, dog-friendly sands backed by sheer cliffs.

5:55am: Looe Go crabbing or walk along the banjo pier at this traditional seaside resort, or cast away to Looe Island Nature Reserve.

10 WHITSAND - 5.25am

Whitsand Bay

Get cosy in one of our romantic cabins overlooking Whitsand Bay. Simon from Beach Retreats stayed in Brackenbank, a stylish chalet on the cliffs.

“The coast road took us past a patchwork of beach shacks and cabins, amongst which we found our weekend retreat. Hidden from its neighbours, with panoramic ocean views and the ever-present sounds of the waves, it felt like we were on a boat out at sea.

There’s a beautiful outdoor entertaining space with a barbecue, sun loungers and a sea-view shower. The Scandi-inspired living area invites you to get cosy by the wood burner, or you can sit up at the large dining table and watch the boats criss-crossing the water below.

At low tide there’s a long stretch of sand accessible via a grassy path, and it’s well worth taking a walk to soak up the views from St Michael’s Chapel on Rame Head. It’s only a short car journey to the waterfront villages of Kingsand and Cawsand, and from the latter we highly recommend hopping on a boat cruise to Plymouth’s waterfront Barbican.”

Like the sound of this? Then check out a few more of our cliff-top cabins at Whitsand Bay. Our portfolio includes cosy couple’s boltholes, classic beach hut style properties and luxury coastal pads flooded with sea views. LOOE - 5.55am

Looe

The second largest fishing port in Cornwall, Looe flaunts the vibe of a classic seaside holiday town. From fish and chips on the beach to a rail ale trip through the valley, there’s plenty to do beyond the maze of markets, boutiques and galleries huddled around the quayside.

Five things we love to do in Looe...

• Stroll along the Banjo Pier to watch the fishing boats bringing their catch into the harbour.

• Grab buckets and nets and go crabbing off the harbour wall.

• Take a boat trip to Looe Island, a marine nature reserve where you can come face-to-face with all sorts of sea-life including seals and dolphins.

• Spot seabirds, smugglers’ coves and shipwrecks on a coastal ramble to Polperro, then hop on the bus back to Looe.

• Hop aboard the Looe Valley Rail Ale Trail, to sample some of the county’s finest ales in a series of inns along one of the Great Scenic Railways of and Cornwall.

14 CHARLESTOWN - 6.45am

St Austell Bay

As day breaks over the Cornish Riviera, it’s plain to see why this sparkling bay hemmed with sandy coves has become a world-famous filming location.

The iconic tall ships, masts rising high from the historic Charlestown harbour, have become a familiar sight on our TV screens, starring in the BBC Poldark series, Hornblower and even Pirates of the Caribbean. Step into the seafaring history of the area at the Charlestown Shipwreck and Heritage Museum, or step foot along the coast path to a necklace of sand and shingle coves.

6:45am: Charlestown

6:55am: Porthpean Pack your swimwear, or at least dip your toes in the cobalt water flanked by cliffs where seabirds nest.

7:15am: Pentewan Hop aboard a kayak or paddleboard and cast away, or kickback on the shore with an award-winning burger from Hubbox.

CHARLESTOWN

Walk along the harbour wall of this late Georgian port, catch a glimpse of Captain Poldark himself, or meander along the beach and watch fishing boats come and go.

17 POLKERRIS BEACH

On the eastern edge of Bay, Polkerris is another watersports hub, where windsurfing, stand up paddleboarding and sailing are on the activities menu. After a day on the water tuck into wood-fired pizzas and buckets of mussels atSam’s on the Beach.

Take the plunge…

The millpond waters of make it the perfect place for plenty of watersports – from wild swimming to wakeboarding. And after all that splashing around in the sea, it’s fortunate that there are so many excellent eateries for fuelling up back on the beach.

Here are some of our favourites…

Charlestown Gently shelving sands make this a popular beach for swimmers – some even dare to leap off the harbour wall. Once you’ve shaken the saltwater from your hair, head to The Longstore for steak and seafood, locally sourced from the surrounding land and sea.

Pentewan Sands Hire a kayak and paddle out into St Austell Bay, to see if you can spot any seals, seabirds or dolphins – you could even sling a line out to see if you can hook some mackerel. Then fuel up with an American-inspired feast at the beachside Hubbox, where award-winning burgers and New York style hot dogs head-up the menu.

19 PORTMELLON - 7.25am

The Roseland

Flanked by the wild Atlantic on one side and the serene Fal Estuary on the other, the Roseland Peninsula is a place where craggy headlands meet verdant farmland, and fishermen rub shoulders with A-list celebs in chic waterside inns.

Ramble along a coastline peppered with secret coves, fishing villages and wooded creeks, and it’s plain to see why the area has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

7:25am: Portmellon Stroll from or Gorran Haven for a dip at this sand and shingle cove, or visit the waterside pub for a Cornish ale.

7:40am: Gorran Haven Families, kayakers and fishermen mingle at this pretty Cornish beach that’s a popular spot for a pasty or ice cream fix.

7:50am: Porthluney Cove Picnic on the golden sands of this striking cove backed by the magical Caerhays Castle and its exotic gardens. GORRAN HAVEN - 7.40am

Make footprints…

Walk: Gorran Haven to Portmellon Distance: 6 miles

Take a circular walk from sublime beaches to cliff-top scenery and back through lush valley woodland to the water’s edge…

• Start in the narrow, medieval streets of the fishing village of Gorran Haven.

• Head uphill out of the village, to the small chapel that was once used as a fish cellar and net store.

• Follow the South West Coast Path around Turbot Point – named when turbot were more common around these coastal waters.

• Soak up panoramic views from the cliffs as you pass Colona Beach and Chapel Point, before descending into Portmellon, where you can pause for a drink in the waterside tavern.

• Trace the valley inland, through meadows, glades and the nature reserve of West Bodrugan Woods.

• Stop at the stunning Gorran Church to marvel at the steeple and the medieval bench ends.

• Cross the fields back towards the two sandy beaches of Gorran Haven, finishing with a pasty or ice cream at the water’s edge.

What to take:

Water and snacks Swimmers and a towel Binoculars to spot seabirds and seals Blanket for basking on the beach and cliffs Map and directions: iwalkcornwall.co.uk/walk/gorran_haven_to_portmellon

23 The Hidden Hut

5 things we love to do on The Roseland…

• Visit the fairytale fortress of Castle, built for Henry VIII to guard the important anchorage of the .

• Walk the coast path to St Just in Roseland, where a 13th century church and its sub-tropical gardens overlook a tidal creek.

• Go rockpooling and eat fish and chips by the beach at pretty Portscatho.

• Head to Porthcurnick’s Hidden Hut for one of its famous alfresco feast nights, when the likes of paella, seafood and wood-roasted lamb are cooked over a fire by the beach.

• Get away from it all at the Molunans beaches, a trio of coves in the shelter of St Anthony’s Head.

24 SWANPOOL - 9.30am

Falmouth SWANPOOL Hop aboard a sailing boat, explore the bay on a stand-up paddleboard or have a gourmet picnic delivered to the beach.

Try sailing, windsurfing, kayaking or coasteering at this watersports mecca, A maritime hub that’s home to the world’s third deepest natural harbour, Falmouth’s creative or spectate over an ice cream or a round of crazy golf. heart and burgeoning foodie scene makes it one of Cornwall’s most vibrant seaside towns. Artists and musicians flock here to decant inspiration from the scenery, chefs and cocktail mixologists create magic in cool coastal bars and eateries, and a small fleet of sailing boats still dredge oysters by sail and oar.

9:05am: Gyllyngvase Hire a stand-up paddleboard, brave a dip with the year-round swimmers or soak up the scene from Gylly Beach Café.

9:30am: Swanpool

9:40: Maenporth Paddle in the crystal clear waters, tuck into a legendary crab sandwich at the beach café and lookout for the buried shipwreck as the tide ebbs. Gylly Beach Café

Beach, eat, sleep, repeat…

Andrew from Beach Retreats enjoyed a gourmet getaway staying in Curlew, one of our luxury apartments between Falmouth town and Gyllyngvase Beach.

“One of five newly renovated apartments at Kinbrae House, here everything comes together to create a perfect base for couples visiting Falmouth. Turn left out of the apartment and you are just 200m from Gyllynvase Beach, where we watched an early morning yoga class from our breakfast spot at the Gylly Beach Café.

Head in the other direction out of the apartment, and it’s only a 10-minute walk into the town, with its array of restaurants and boutiques. We took a slightly longer route around the headland, past and the docks, before descending into the heart of the town. The National Maritime Museum Cornwall is one the biggest waterside attractions, but we decided to hop on a ferry to St Mawes for a Cornish pasty on the harbour wall.

After a busy day in the briny air, we appreciated the stylish comfort and attention to detail back inside our Beach Retreat, especially the Cornish cream tea ingredients that awaited us. In such a convenient location, with so much on the doorstep, it would be easy to leave the car in the off-road parking spot all week and explore Falmouth and its surrounds on foot and ferry.”

Andrew’s top places to eat and drink in Falmouth:

Oliver’s Make sure you book in advance to bag a table at this stripped back little bistro that’s passionate about the provenance of its food.

Harbour Lights You don’t have to head to Stein’s for some of the finest fish and chips in town; the multi award- winning Harbour Lights serves sustainable seafood beside the harbour.

Gylly Beach Café Whether you fancy a full Cornish breakfast or cocktails by the beach, you can’t beat this stylish, glass-walled hangout with a heated decking overlooking the sea.

The Wheelhouse Crab and Oyster Bar Don your bib and get finger bowls ready to feast on oysters, mussels, crab and prawns at this informal quayside restaurant.

Star and Garter Enjoy sublime harbour views, fish fresh from the day boats, and local meats that have been cured and smoked by the chefs behind this award-winning gastro-pub.

Hooked on the Rocks Bask on the beachside deck or soak up the views from inside this stylish restaurant that champions fresh Cornish produce plucked from the surrounding coast and countryside.

28 Pendennis Castle

Five things we love to do in Falmouth…

• Take in the view of Pendennis Castle from a stand-up paddleboard, making a pit stop at Castle Beach for an ice cream.

• Hop on a ferry to picture-postcard St Mawes for a glass of bubbles on the terrace at Olga Polizzi’s famous Hotel Tresanton.

• Get back to nature on a stroll around the lagoon at Swanpool Nature Reserve, where you can spot the likes of tufted ducks and kingfishers.

• Venture below the tideline and spot fish from the underwater viewing gallery at the National Maritime Museum Cornwall.

• Hop aboard an Orca Sea Safari for the chance to encounter seabirds, seals and – if you’re lucky – dolphins or basking sharks.

National Maritime Museum Cornwall 31 KYNANCE COVE - 11.20am KYNANCE COVE

Get your camera at the ready to capture the white sands and rock stacks of one of Cornwall’s most photographed and ‘Instagrammable’ locations.

Lizard Peninsula

Stand on the UK’s most southerly point, scour the coastline for shipwrecks and scramble to secret coves where seals outnumber visitors.

From the iconic Kynance Cove to the remote Housel Bay, the cerulean waters lapping Peninsula beckon swimmers, snorkellers, kayakers and beach goers who simply want to feel sand between their toes. Step foot on the wild landscapes hemming the ocean, where you can climb a lighthouse tower, stand where the first transatlantic message was transmitted in 1901, and marvel at Goonhilly Earth Station’s cloud-scraping satellites.

10:40am: Kennack Sands Go rockpooling, build sandcastles or cast away on a kayak from Kennack’s family-friendly sands, which are separated into two bays by an outcrop of rocks.

10:50am: Cadgwith Dip your toes in the sea, admire the colourful fishing boats and thatched waterside cottages, then hit the coast path towards the Devil’s Frying Pan.

11:20am: Kynance Cove

32 Five things we love to do on the Lizard Peninsula…

• Stand on the most southerly point of the UK and spot seals.

• Sound a foghorn, climb the lighthouse tower, track ships and learn Morse code at the Lizard Lighthouse Heritage Centre.

• Set off for a Lizard Adventure aboard a kayak from Mullion Cove.

• Get to grips with surfing at Cove, then warm up with a legendary hot chocolate at the beachside café.

• Take a walk on Dollar Cove, where you might be lucky enough to find some of the treasure washed up from the wreck of a 17th century Spanish ship.

32 35 Tonic of the sea

Since the 16th century, people have flocked to the seaside to experience the health benefits of saltwater bathing. Take a dip in the azure waters of the Lizard Peninsula and explore sea caves, spot spider crabs and come face-to-face with seals.

Here are some of our favourite wild swimming spots a pebble’s throw from our Beach Retreats on the Lizard Peninsula.

Housel Bay Grab your snorkelling gear and head to this haven just to the northeast of the Lizard Lighthouse. Although the pale sands of Housel Bay are only revealed as the tide ebbs, swimmers can enter the water at any state of tide – just be careful as it’s a remote location.

Kynance Cove With its white sands, turquoise waters and immense rock stacks, it’s little surprise that Kynance lures the camera- wielding crowds. The best views are from a seal’s eye perspective out to sea, after which you can warm up with a Cornish cream tea at the cove-side café.

Polurrian Cove A private beach close to where inventor Marconi transmitted the first transatlantic message in 1901, Polurrian’s sheltered crescent of sand is a stunning spot for splashing around in the white-water.

Church Cove Loved by snorkellers and divers, there’s plenty of underwater life to spot at this narrow rocky cove just beyond the hamlet of Landewednack.

36

Discover secret coves steeped in tales of legendary mermaids. Step into a World Heritage Mining Site that hugs the dramatic coastline. WEST where two oceans meet at . Stand Dip in to the sea pool carved into the rocks at Priest’s Cove. CORNWALL Spot shipwrecks and seals from rugged cliff tops. PORTHLEVEN - 11.55am

PORTHLEVEN

Watch surfers take on the reef break from the harbour wall, or stroll along the three miles of sand and shingle beach to Loe Bar.

Feel the saltwater spray where the Atlantic collides with the mainland, or take shelter in picturesque villages where fishing boats land some of the finest Cornish seafood.

Freewheel around the family-friendly trails of the Penrose Estate, spot shipwrecks from Trewavas Head, or take on the gnarly surf at Porthleven. Whatever coastal adventure takes your fancy, we’ve got the perfect place to stay in West Cornwall, from cosy fishermen’s cottages to an 18th century castle overlooking Mount’s Bay

11:55am: Porthleven

12:20pm: Praa Sands Build sandcastles, surf one of the south coast’s most popular waves and make the most of the shore-side facilities – from watersports hire to a cool beach bar.

1:10pm: Mousehole Paddle in the shallows of this little crescent of beach littered with colourful fishing boats, or enjoy the view from a harbourside restaurant.

Surfer: Adam Griffiths Photo: Keith Geoffrey Lewis 42 Sea views and seafood in Porthleven

Well-known for its world-class reef break and the iconic clock tower that was one of the most photographed landmarks in the winter storms of 2014, Porthleven is fast-gaining a reputation as one of Cornwall’s foodie hotspots. Its annual food festival kicks off the holiday season with a mighty feast of food, music and entertainment, while its busy fishing fleet lands fresh seafood that’s served in the waterside restaurants all year round.

Some of our favourite places to eat and drink in Porthleven:

Kota Enjoy an Asian twist on Cornish seafood and other locally sourced ingredients, at this harbour-side great that’s a regular in the Michelin Guide.

Kota Kai Kickback for coffee, cocktails or a slap-up Cornish-cum-Asian meal, while the kids hangout and play table football in the family room.

Seadrift Kitchen-Café Tuck into whatever seafood the local fisherman landed that very morning, or try a tender, Cornish-reared steak that’s been hung for at least 21 days.

Harbour Head Soak up the maritime views over a specialist coffee – roasted locally by Origin and made by one of Cornwall’s most talented baristas.

Amélies Feast on harbour scenery, live music, local lobster, Sunday roasts and sharing planks piled with seafood.

Rick Stein Sample Stein’s signature seafood dishes, seasonal ingredients and global flavours; it’s no surprise that this foodie magnate set up in Porthleven when he got a sniff of the town’s gastronomic reputation.

Clockwise from above Rick Stein, Porthleven Amélies, Porthleven

44 45 PEDN VOUNDER - 1.40pm

PEDN VOUNDER

Brave the knee-wobbling descent and naturists, and you’ll be rewarded with sheltered white sands lapped by some of the cleanest, clearest water in Britain.

Far west

Make yourself at home in a cottage at the edge of the world. Discover the remains of Cornwall’s mining heyday atop jagged cliffs, and peer down to the turquoise hues of the Atlantic where legendary mermaids mingle with marine life.

1:35pm: Porthcurno Pad along the crushed-shell shoreline, spot basking sharks and dolphins, or take a pew at the world-famous Minack Theatre.

1:40pm: Pedn Vounder

1:50pm: Sennen Swim, surf or stuff yourself with seafood at this Blue Flag beauty overlooked by Ben Tunnicliffe’s beach restaurant.

46 Minack Theatre

Five things we love to do in West Cornwall…

• Take a seat in the cliff-side amphitheatre to watch a play at the Minack Theatre.

• Follow in the footsteps of a legendary giant to the fortress of St Michael’s Mount.

• Forage for samphire, herbs and edible seaweed along the shoreline.

• Walk from Land’s End to Nanjizal, a remote cove that’s home to the Song of the Sea rock arch.

• Wrap up warm and head to Mousehole harbour to witness Cornwall’s most spectacular Christmas lights.

44 49 SENNEN - 1.50pm

Walk on the wild side

Soak up some of West Cornwall’s eye-popping scenery on one of our favourite coastal walks.

Sennen to Land’s End Loop (3 miles) Spot seabirds from the coastguard lookout, peer down to the shipwreck of RMS Mulheim and step foot on the most south-westerly point of mainland Britain. Return to Sennen via the National Cycleway that runs parallel to the coast path. southwestcoastpath.com/walksdb/28/

Sennen to Lamorna (11.7 miles) Pack a picnic and binoculars to take on a challenging section of South West Coast Path – around , past and the pearly sands of Porthcurno, and all the way to the arty hamlet of Lamorna. southwestcoastpath.org.uk/walksdb/158/

St Just and Cape Cornwall (3.5 miles) Lap up bucket loads of mining heritage and landscape drama as you trace the wave-lashed cliffs past engine houses and Iron Age castle ruins on the way to the rugged promontory of Cape Cornwall. southwestcoastpath.org.uk/walksdb/701/

50 ST IVES HARBOUR - 3.05pm

ST IVES BAY

A fishing village turned artists colony, St Ives is now a UK holiday hotspot that’s synonymous with stylish seaside living. Dip into the world-famous galleries, dine in Michelin-star restaurants and don a wetsuit to dive into the watersports scene.

2:50pm: Porthmeor Rent a surfboard or a deckchair, tuck into tapas at the water’s edge and dip into highbrow culture at the Tate St Ives.

3:05pm: St Ives Harbour Watch boats bobbing by and picnic on pasties and Cornish ice cream with your toes in the sand.

3:20pm: Porthgwidden Hire a beach hut or bag a seat at the award-winning café hunkered in this sheltered Blue Flag cove.

3:35pm: Carbis Bay Head off on an ocean adventure aboard a traditional Hawaiian canoe, or simply bask in the beauty of this tropical beach with family-friendly facilities.

3:50pm: Gwithian Feel the force of the Atlantic when you join the surfers and windsurfers, or enjoy an invigorating coastal stroll through the wildlife-rich dunes.

4:00pm: Godrevy Soak up views of the iconic lighthouse immortalised by Virginia Woolf, spot seals from the cliff path and fuel up on cake in the surfside café.

52 53 Clockwise from right Tate St Ives The Leach Pottery

Art by the beach…

Lured by the magical light, stunning seascapes and bohemian lifestyle, artists flocked to St Ives in the 19th century. Explore the scenery that inspired countless artists including Barbara Hepworth and Terry Frost, and visit an array of galleries where the works of the greats – past and present – are on display.

Five galleries we love in St Ives…

Tate St Ives Feast your senses on a diverse collection of modern art, get creative with hands-on family activities and gaze out to the scenery that lured so many talented artists to the area.

Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden Wander through a sub-tropical garden that’s home to Hepworth’s monumental sculptures, and peep into the garden studio where the artist worked.

The Leach Pottery Learn to throw your own pot and see the first Japanese ‘climbing kiln’ that was built in Europe.

Barnoon Workshop Spark your creativity with all sorts of arts and craft workshops at this seafront studio.

Back Road Artworks Discover artworks by a handful of local artists in this studio space tucked away in the Downalong area of St Ives.

Insider’s tip:

Get your hands on an Art Pass for unlimited entry to the ‘big six’ art galleries of West Cornwall – Tate St Ives, Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, Leach Pottery, Penlee House Gallery and Museum, Art Gallery and The Exchange.

54 GODREVY - 4.00pm

Godrevy

Spot seals, stare out to the lighthouse and watch the sunset from the sand dunes…

Walk: Godrevy Island and The Knavocks Distance: 3.3 miles

• Start in Gwithian car park and follow the South West Coast Path towards Godrevy lighthouse.

• Follow the path around Godrevy Island – home to gulls, oystercatchers and pipits.

• Carry on across The Knavocks, looking out for seals at Navax Point, where you can often see as many as 70 or 80 of them basking in the cove below.

• Make tracks back across Godrevy Island towards the beach, making a pit-stop at Godrevy car park for a delicious hunk of cake at the café.

Map and directions: southwestcoastpath.org.uk/walksdb/729/

52 57

Saddle up and gallop along sandy beaches. Surf the world-famous waves of the UK’s surfing capital. NORTH through landscapes etched with Cornwall’s mining heritage. Cycle Sail or water ski on the Camel Estuary. CORNWALL Dine by the waterside in foodie .

54 TREVAUNANCE COVE - 4.38pm

TREVAUNANCE COVE

Explore the sea caves, kayak around the rock stacks or simply frolic on the dog-friendly sands of this pretty little cove hugged by high cliffs.

Step foot in the legendary Badlands…

Explore some of Cornwall’s wildest coastline, where cliff-tops peppered with engine houses overlook some of the region’s most gnarly surf breaks. Much more than a classic beach holiday destination, the coastline from Portreath to Perranporth is brimming with history and heritage.

4:15pm: Portreath Grab your bodyboards, buckets and spades for a family-friendly day out at this sand and shingle beach backed by surf shops and cafés.

4:18pm: Porthtowan Kickback and watch the surf from the Blue Bar, take a dip in the sea pool or strike out across the cliffs into World Heritage Mining territory.

4:38pm: Trevaunance Cove

5:10pm: Perranporth Dive into the surf scene or saddle up and go horse riding on three miles of golden sands backed by a characterful seaside town.

5:30pm: Holywell Bay Roll down giant sand dunes and discover the ‘holy well’ in the sea caves, at this breathtaking beach that’s one of the key filming locations for the BBC Poldark series.

63 PERRANPORTH - 5.10pm

In the saddle…

You don’t have to get your hair wet to get under the skin of the coastline – explore the wild beaches, old mineral tramways and World Heritage Mining Sites from the saddle of a horse or a bicycle.

Cycle from coast to coast Freewheel along a disused mineral tramway from Portreath, ticking off sea views, historic engine houses and magical woodland, on a 15-mile route that wends all the way to Devoran, on the south coast.

Horse ride along Perranporth Beach While Captain Poldark prefers to gallop along the crushed-shell sands of Holywell Bay, you can saddle up at Reen Manor Riding Stables and gallop along Perranporth’s three miles of golden sands.

Andrew from Beach Retreats put one of Captain Poldark’s favourite beaches to the test when he stayed at Windrush, footsteps from Holywell Bay.

“And what a beach! We loved exploring Holywell Bay with its wide expanse of sand framed by cliffs, and the view to the twin tips of Gull Rocks rising from the sea. On the beach, the tide covers mussel-encrusted rocks and crags, and there are plenty of caves and rock pools to explore. However, the most alluring feature is the golden dunes backing the sands, criss-crossed by paths that rise and dip with foot- and paw-prints. It’s truly somewhere to lose yourself.

Windrush was the ideal location to indulge in the pure escapism of Holywell Bay. In the middle of the village, it was just a few hundred metres’ walk through the gate to the beach, so we could wake up and savour the sea views in comfort. Beautifully updated by Interior Designer Nicola O’Mara, the focal point of the four-bedroom house is the dual-aspect living room, complete with an open fire, patio doors out to the garden and feature pieces. Our favourite space was the summer house, which is light and stylishly furnished – a great space to steal away with a book.

The perfect escape from the everyday rush, Windrush gave us the perfect mix of contemporary comfort and a great position to make the most of Holywell Bay.”

64 LITTLE FISTRAL - 6.20pm

Newquay

Hit the waves of the UK’s surf capital, bask in the buzzing beach lifestyle and feast in restaurants helmed by some of Cornwall’s most talented chefs.

A popular holiday resort since Victorian times, it wasn’t until the 60s that the surfers started flocking to , and the town soon became famous for its surf-by-day, party-by-night attitude. LITTLE FISTRAL These days it flaunts a more sophisticated image, with stylish cocktail bars nudging the shore and an explosion of globally-inspired restaurants.

Escape the crowds on neighbouring Fistral and hideout in this beautiful cove made 5:55pm: Crantock for rockpooling, snorkelling and hunting for shells and sea glass. Paddle in the Gannel when the sea is miles out, or wait for the tide to flood and hop on the foot ferry to the Fern Pit Café for a crab sandwich.

6:15pm: Fistral Don a wetsuit and learn to surf where many of Cornwall’s pros cut their teeth. Or sit back and spectate from one of the swanky shore-side restaurants.

6:20pm: Little Fistral

6:30pm: Towan Admire the iconic house on the island, join the bucket and spade brigades, or check out local marine life at the Blue Reef Aquarium.

6:40pm: Great Western Take a pew at The Slope for a beer and burger beside this stunning beach that was the epicentre of surfing in Cornwall in the 60s.

7:00pm: Lusty Glaze Follow the steps to a private cove where you can try all sorts of watersports or chill out in the beach restaurant that hosts live music year-round.

7:05pm: Porth Step straight out of one of our self-catering properties onto this family-friendly haven where you can explore Porth Island and see spray blasting from the blowhole.

60 67 Relax, do yoga, make waves…

Close your eyes, take a deep breath and experience Cornwall with Amy from Next Wave Yoga

“Imagine it’s 08:30 on a Monday morning. Instead of commuting to work or packing the kids off to school, you’re on a beach in Cornwall. Perhaps you are on your own, or perhaps your whole family is there with you. The beach is still and 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, listening to the sound of the sea and the birds.

Your yoga teacher asks you to close your eyes, and for a few minutes you allow yourself to really tune-in to everything going on around you; to be present in the moment. For a whole hour you are guided through a yoga class created specifically for you, with careful guidance and support when necessary. What a great way to start the day.

The outdoors is an integral part of the Cornish lifestyle, and we are blessed to be surrounded by a beautiful coastline to use as our ‘yoga studio’. As well as using the beach as our studio, we also run yoga classes in Beach Retreats’ properties – making use of the sea-view terraces, private gardens and open-plan sitting rooms. This makes it easier for the whole family to join in.

You may want to have just one class during stay, have daily classes to really reap the benefits, 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 truly relax, recharge and go home feeling like you can take on the world. If you have never stood and intentionally taken lungs full of fresh sea air before, you are in for a treat.”

Other invigorating beach activities to try while you’re in Newquay…

• Go rockpooling and discover fascinating critters from crabs and pipefish to sucker fish and blennies.

• Run, roll or ride down the sand dunes at Holywell, Crantock or Fistral.

• Go coasteering around Newquay’s Pentire Headland or Porth Island.

• Hop aboard a super-SUP and play King of the SUP and Sumo SUP with your shipmates.

• Go fishing from Newquay harbour and see what you can catch for dinner.

68 PORTH - 7.05pm

Decked out for the beach… Our properties by the beach in Porth go hand-in-hand with the surf lifestyle. There’s room for your surfboards and wetsuits, space to chill out and watch the waves between sessions, and you’re bang on the coast between the surf beaches of Newquay and Watergate Bay.

Our Beach Retreats are so perfect for surfing holidays with family and friends, that SurfGirl magazine featured them in a photoshoot. Surf lifestyle eat your heart out…

Photoshoot for SurfGirl magazine at The Penthouse at Coast, Porth

Photographer: Evie Johnstone Stylist: Corinne Evans 70 Models: Ali Russell and Gabbi Zagni 71 WATERGATE BAY - 7.10pm

WATERGATE BAY

Hit the surf with the Extreme Academy, walk the dog along two miles of sand and soak up the saltwater scenery over an Extreme Hot Chocolate at The Beach Hut.

Don a wetsuit and don’t leave the dog at home: From Watergate Bay and beyond, the South West Coast Path wends from wave-lashed headlands to some of Cornwall’s finest surfing beaches.

Join the families, watersports fans and dog owners that dominate the waves, rock pools and sandy runways of Watergate Bay and Mawgan Porth, then gather in trendy surf-side restaurants including Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen Cornwall. Or strike out along the coast path to Porthcothan, past the towering granite giants at Bedruthan Steps.

7:10pm: Watergate Bay

7:20pm: Mawgan Porth Discover caves, stand under the waterfall and tackle the waves on this rugged beach loved by families and dog walkers.

7:40pm: Porthcothan Tread in the footsteps of Captain Poldark on this un-crowded beach where the tide ebbs to reveal a horseshoe pool, rock formations and smugglers’ caves.

72

Family beach life…

Beach Retreats boasts over 50 beachside properties in Watergate Bay and Mawgan Porth. It’s little surprise that families flock to the wide-open spaces of these wild beaches where dogs bound along the shoreline, surfers frolic in the waves and kids splash in the rockpools.

The RNLI lifeguards do a sterling job of patrolling many of our beaches, but you can ensure your family’s safety on the beach by following a few key tips from the RNLI:

Safety in numbers Never swim or surf alone. If you see someone in trouble in the water call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.

Flags Always swim, bodyboard and use inflatables between the red and yellow flags. Surf, kayak and SUP between the black and white flags. Never enter the water when a red flag is flying. The orange windsock indicates strong offshore winds. Never use inflatables when the orange windsock is flying.

Rip currents The biggest danger on UK beaches, rips are strong currents running out to sea that can quickly drag you out of your depth. If you get swept out to sea in a rip current, don’t try and swim against it. Stay calm and wave to the lifeguards for assistance (if they are present). Then swim parallel to the shore before catching a wave back in to the beach.

Know the tides Check the tide times before you go to the beach, to avoid getting cut off by the incoming ocean. Tide information is available at all lifeguarded beaches in peak season, and tide timetables are available from most beach outlets.

Weever fish Weever fish nestle in the sand along the shoreline, and are especially prominent at low tide during the summer months. If you tread on one it will raise its spine in self-defence – this can feel much like a bee sting. The best remedy is to bathe the affected area in water as hot as you can stand it.

Jellyfish If you get stung by a jellyfish, bathe the area with seawater and apply a cold compress if available. If severe symptoms persist, seek help from a lifeguard.

Litter Please remove all your litter from the beach. As a beach lover, why not join in a local beach clean, or do your own mini beach clean to help conserve Cornwall’s beaches?

Find out more about how to tackle plastic pollution and how to protect the UK’s coastline and marine life at sas.org.uk and beachclean.net.

77 PORTHCOTHAN - 7.40pm

Strand Line

Lowenna from Beach Retreats made herself at home in a rustic yet stylish cabin close to the strandline in Porthcothan…

“What with 11 beaches on the doorstep and plenty of coast paths to explore, I couldn’t wait for my weekend at Strand Line. This cosy cabin oozes with character and charm, with its carefully thought-out rustic interiors that have been hand selected, foraged or up-cycled by the owner Susie Ray.

We arrived to wild flowers and homemade shortbread, and were instantly mesmerised by the attention to detail in every nook and cranny – from the shell chimes and fishermen’s nets in the garden, to the coastal decor inside. We immediately felt relaxed, sitting on the decking with the fairy lights on and the stars beginning to twinkle, before settling down with a cheeseboard and a bottle of red by the fire.

After an amazing night’s sleep in the super-king size bed with 400-thread count Egyptian cotton sheets, we jumped in the car and drove 10 minutes to the family-friendly Bay. Once we’d eaten ice creams and watched dogs chasing frisbees and paddleboarders exploring the cove, we followed the coast path around the headland, taking in panoramic coastal views on the way to .

Our next beach pit stop was at Porthcothan, the closest beach to Strand Line. Just a mile from our abode, here the sheltered golden sands are backed by grassy dunes and peppered with rock formations, sea caves and rock pools. The South West Coast Path led us west towards the Trescore Islands, where a low-tide lagoon beckons swimmers and snorkellers. You might also recognise the cliff tops as being where Captain Poldark often gallops his horse in the recent BBC Poldark series.

Other beaches within easy reach include Trevone, Mawgan Porth, Watergate Bay and Bedruthan Steps. However, the following day, once the sea mist had cleared, we headed to picturesque Padstow, a 10-minute drive away. It’s not easy deciding where to dine in this foodie mecca, but we opted to soak up the vibes and views of the harbour town from the conservatory at Paul Ainsworth’s Rojano’s in the Square. Other restaurants to try – aside from Stein’s stable – are Paul Ainsworth’s No 6, Prawn on the Lawn and The Olive Tree.

After a couple of afternoon tipples, we strolled along the coast path from Padstow to Trevone beach, then caught a taxi to Stein’s Cornish Arms pub in the pretty village. After digging into a huge bowl of Cornish mussels and local ales, it was just a 20-minute walk back to Strand Line.”

Strand Line sleeps 4. Larger groups can also hire Lobster Pot cabin (sleeps 2), located next door.

78 79 ROCK - 8.15pm

ROCK

Hop on the foot ferry across to foodie Padstow or skirt the grassy knoll of and pad along the sand to .

The Camel Estuary

Feast your eyes on gob-smacking coastal scenery, and dine on lip-smacking local produce that’s been plucked fresh from your surroundings.

Set foot on a string of pearly beaches, or set sail on the glistening estuary that wends into the lush Camel Valley. A mecca for foodies, sailors, walkers and watersports fanatics, the Camel Estuary and its surrounds has long been a holiday hotspot for the well-heeled beach crew.

7:50pm: Trevone See what you can find on a ramble around the rock pools and get your camera poised to photograph the 80-foot blowhole formed by a collapsed sea cave.

8:15pm: Rock

8:25pm: Polzeath Join flocks of surfers and beach lovers that crowd this popular beach in the summer months, or escape for a walk up to the wild promontory of The Rumps.

80 POLZEATH - 8.25pm

Polzeath

Climb the grassy knoll of Brea Hill, watch boats bobbing in the estuary and see the wonky steeple of St Enodoc Church rising from the dunes…

Walk: Rock to Polzeath Distance: 3 miles

• Start on Rock beach, footsteps from our stylish properties in this chic waterside village. At low tide you can follow the golden sands out towards the ocean; hug the water’s edge and see if you can spot an otter in the estuary.

• When you reach the dune-backed beauty of Daymer Bay, pause for an ice cream, take a dip or scout around the rock pools.

• Climb the grassy knoll of Brea Hill and see if you can spot the wonky steeple of St Enodoc Church, where Poet Laureate John Betjeman is buried.

• Continue on along the coast path, where you’ll often encounter artists committing the panoramic views to canvas.

• When you reach the buzzing surf hub of Polzeath, hire a surfboard and hit the waves, then fuel up in one of the shore-side eateries before heading back to Rock.

Map and directions: iwalkcornwall.co.uk/walk/rock_to_polzeath

83 Taste the saltwater lifestyle…

When he opened the doors to his flagship Seafood Restaurant in the 70s, Rick Stein sparked a foodie revolution in Padstow. Many years later this harbour town is on the radar of gastronomes from around the globe, and it’s not only Stein’s restaurants luring the foodies to town. From Paul Ainsworth at No.6 to Nathan Outlaw’s gastro-pub across the mouth of the estuary at Rock, there’s a plethora of world-class restaurants to choose from.

Some of our favourite places to eat and drink in Padstow and Rock:

The Seafood Restaurant, Padstow Tuck into sublime seafood straight from the sea at Stein’s flagship restaurant that is still one of Padstow’s headliners.

Paul Ainsworth at No.6, Padstow Book ahead to sample modern British dishes that make the most of bold, seasonal flavours and the best produce Ainsworth can get his hands on.

Rojano’s in the Square, Padstow Graze on antipasti and a lip-smacking fusion of Italian cuisine and Cornish produce at Ainsworth’s more casual eatery.

Prawn on the Lawn, Padstow You can trust this fishmonger and seafood bar to serve only the freshest lobsters, crabs and fish flipped straight off the local fishing boats.

Greens of Padstow Play a round of crazy golf, soak up views of the Camel Estuary and feast on the likes of steak, seafood and burgers from the family-friendly menu.

The Mariners, Rock Enjoy simple, seasonal ingredients teamed with locally brewed beers, at this waterside venue that’s a collaboration between Nathan Outlaw and Sharp’s brewery.

Blue Tomato Café, Rock Watch the sailing boats gliding past as you enjoy classics from burgers to salads at this trendy café by the ferry point.

Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen & Restaurant Nathan Outlaw, Port Isaac Rock Oyster Festival Pop to pretty Port Isaac to bag a table at one of celeb chef Nathan Outlaw’s restaurants, where the Take a seat at any of the best seafood restaurants in Padstow and you’re likely to find the local menus are driven by locally caught fish. Porthilly oysters, grown in the Camel Estuary, on the menu. However, you don’t have to be a fan of oysters to join in celebrations on the banks of the estuary at the annual Rock Oyster Festival – where live music, artisan grub and family entertainment are on the menu.

84 85 WIDEMOUTH - 9.25pm

Hit the Atlantic Highway…

Join the convoy of V-Dubs with surfboards cruising up the Atlantic Highway, to the buzzing surfy town of Bude. Scale Cornwall’s highest cliff at , explore castle ruins atop wave-hewn headlands and take a dip in Bude’s historic sea pool.

9:25pm: Widemouth

9:30pm: Crooklets Take a dip in the 91-metre sea pool in front of the colourful beach huts, gorge on Cornish ice cream and watch the sunset over the waves.

WIDEMOUTH

Go rockpooling or surfing, or simply stroll along the sand and take a seat at one of the stylish cafés dotted along the shoreline. Bed and board…

Holly from Beach Retreats gathered a group of her surfer friends to test out Chi An Mor in Widemouth Bay.

“Just a 50-metre walk from Widemouth’s waves, Chi An Mor was a great base for our surfing weekend. When we arrived late on Friday night we could hear the lapping of the waves in the dark, so we couldn’t wait to get up and check the surf after a good night’s sleep.

A couple of miles outside of Bude, Widemouth is a long beach and a popular surfing spot, but there are plenty of peaks to break up the crowds, as well a reef break that works occasionally. After a fun morning session on the incoming tide, we took a short drive down the road to Crooklets. Here we found a really fun beach break that works through all tides and can handle a decent amount of swell. Just around the corner and almost in the centre of town, Summerleaze is a much more sheltered beach, making it a good spot when there’s a big swell.

Back at Chi An Mor we had plenty of space for the six of us (and all of our surf kit) to chill out close to the waves. It’s a light-filled, contemporary property, with three bedrooms, two shower rooms and a family bathroom. Pets are also welcome.

Aside from the surf and scenery, Bude also boasts some amazing eateries, from The Olive Tree by the river to Life’s a Beach overlooking the surf at Summerleaze. However, we made the most of the facilities at our self-catering surf pad, and when the sun dropped behind the horizon on our final evening, we finished our weekend with a fire on the beach.

Surf and the simple things in life. A retreat to remember.”

88 One - Nil To The Seaside Staycation

Blogger and model Ruth Crilly waxes lyrical about the benefits of a family staycation after a break at Beach Retreats’ Wychwood Lodge.

“I’m still very much undecided as to whether holidays abroad with babies and toddlers are a good idea. The staycation has something very big going for it – for is it not the world’s biggest advantage to be able to pack everything into the boot of the car and then just set off? No airports, no taxi transfers, no worrying about the heat.

Beach Retreats’ Wychwood Lodge, is not right on the beach but you can walk there in around forty minutes, down a lovely rural pathway through wooded areas and past fields of horses and cows. It’s no hardship. But the standout thing about Wychwood – and this is a massive plus point for me, when I go away – is the feeling of total seclusion. Surrounded by dense, mature trees, there’s a view of pure greenery from every window and the silence at night is almost total.

Downstairs at Wychwood there was a kitchen, living room and dining room – we didn’t even make it into the dining room because there was a handy little table with benches in the kitchen. Upstairs, four bedrooms – all of them double or twin, depending on your needs – two of them very spacious and bright and the other two, in the middle, more compact but no less lovely. The master bedroom didn’t have an en suite, but what it did have was a huge arched window overlooking the gardens. Had I been allowed a single spare moment to sit in a chair and read a book then I would have done just that.

The babies particularly liked the wooden pirate ship play area in the summer house. When you have toddlers and can’t be bothered to pile into the car, it’s great to have an on-site distraction. There was also a games room, separate to the house, with a pool table, table football and a games console, and if you had older children, I can imagine you could chuck them in there for a good few hours.

The many bars and restaurants of Bude are 1.4 miles away, so minutes’ by car and a not- impossible walk. It’s worth noting that the beaches in Bude ban dogs, or restrict their access, at least during the summer months. We went to Black Rock beach, which wasn’t too far, but I do wish we’d left Dexter (our dog) in the shady kitchen for an hour or two and gone to check out Summerleaze and Crooklets. I used to go to Bude as a teen and I remember it fondly – it’s a proper seaside town. Can’t beat it!

@modelrecommends

91 #beachretreats

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