Cottages you wouldn't believe are in Cornwall

Places to stay Tuesday 9th June 2026

Planning your next getaway but don't fancy the stress of travelling abroad? A holiday cottage in Cornwall that feels like it's abroad, could be the perfect alternative. Cornwall is filled with hidden gems that could easily be mistaken for destinations much further afield, from Mediterranean-style retreats to a cool, Californian-inspired escape. We've picked our top cottages that feel like they're a world away from home.

St Breca, Prussia Cove

Sleeps: 4

Best for: an American ranch-style retreat

You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into an episode of Yellowstone at this spectacular ranch-style retreat set among the magnificent wild landscapes of West Cornwall. Boasting American frontier charm, this timber-framed home overlooks miles of sweeping fields and rugged scenery, creating a stay that feels worlds away from everyday life. Inside, rustic character meets laid-back luxury. Exposed wooden beams, chunky knitted throws and shelves lined with books and modern art create a warm, inviting atmosphere, while copper pans and natural textures add to the authentic ranch-inspired feel throughout. Step out from the living space onto the veranda and soak up the wild beauty of the Cornish countryside, fire up the BBQ, and gather around the fire pit, where you can easily imagine John Dutton riding into view. If you head out to explore the nearby walks, you may even spot wild ponies roaming the landscape! St Breca is a slice of the American wild west, reimagined in the heart of Cornwall.

Villa Messina, Rosudgeon

Sleeps: 4

Best for: a taste of the Mediterranean

Escape to the Mediterranean without leaving Cornwall at Villa Messina, a sun-soaked retreat tucked away on Cornwall’s south coast. Close to an array of beautiful beaches, with its whitewashed walls and sun-drenched terrace dotted with sub-tropical plants, this beautiful villa captures the effortless charm of a Mediterranean hideaway. Designed for relaxed living, days here are best spent dining al fresco, unwinding on the terrace, and soaking up the peaceful surroundings. Step straight from the sumptuous master bedroom onto the patio for slow mornings on the sun loungers, while bright interiors, crisp white spaces and pops of colour bring a fresh coastal feel throughout. Just a short stroll away lies the soft sands and crystal waters of Perranuthnoe beach, while the turquoise waters of Prussia Cove and the rolling surf at Praa Sands are waiting to be explored nearby.

Praaloha, Praa Sands

Sleeps: 10

Best for: retro Malibu vibes

Praaloha is a striking coastal retreat where Cornwall meets the calm sophistication of mid-century California. Step inside and feel transported to 1950s Malibu with cool art-deco style décor and effortless luxury. With sea views from every room, a beachside swimming pool and even a gym that offers a sea view whilst you work out, you’ll feel like you’re living the cool Californian lifestyle. Sit back, relax and watch the rolling surf as waveriders glide by… you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in Laguna Beach, OC. Every bedroom is uniquely styled, continuing the Art Deco inspiration, with bright wallpapers, unique furniture and stylish textures all with the ocean as the backdrop. From sunrise to sunset, stepping into every carefully-curated space at Praaloha feels like a world away from daily life!

8 Woodlands, Newquay

Sleeps: 8

Best for: laidback Australian living

Set along the majestic Gannel estuary, 8 Woodlands overlooks lush greenery, tropical waters and soft sands often compared to the natural beauty and scenic waterways of Noosa, on Australia’s Sunshine Coast. Both serene and unique landscapes, backed by a crystal-clear ocean and wild hinterlands, where walking, swimming, and paddleboarding are part of daily life! At 8 Woodlands, you have direct access to the water’s edge, making it easy to start your day with a refreshing swim and as the tide flows in, it's perfect for peaceful paddleboard adventure. Much like Noosa’s renowned Natural Park, the Gannel Estuary is a haven for wildlife and a favourite spot for nature lovers. Its sheltered waters are home to an array of native birds, including graceful herons and elegant little egrets, whilst a hike along the coast path towards Holywell Bay offers a glimpse of playful seals basking on the rocks below. Newquay’s vibrant town centre and iconic surfing beaches are a short stroll away, where you can immerse yourself in the relaxed surf culture and foodie scene that’s reminiscent of Australia’s laid-back beachside lifestyle! With reserve-level living, breathtaking views and nature as your backdrop, a stay at 8 Woodlands is all about slowing down and making the most of the outdoors.

Pip House, Mevagissey

Sleeps: 6

Best for: a Mediterranean-inspired coastal escape

Set within stunning landscaped subtropical gardens overlooking the coast, Pip House has a distinctly Mediterranean feel. The spacious timber terrace, light-coloured natural stone, and swaying palm trees evoke the charm of a coastal villa on the Mediterranean. Combined with the outdoor pool and secluded courtyard, it’s easy to forget you’re on the Cornish coastline. While traditional Cornish brickwork reflects the property's local heritage, the lush gardens and exotic flora create a wonderfully tropical atmosphere, offering a true sense of escape and relaxation. Located on Cornwall’s south coast, home to one of the mildest climates in the UK, Pip House allows you to enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean without the hassle of airport check-ins. Here, you can experience sunshine, coastal beauty, and a holiday feel much closer to home.

If you're feeling inspired to holiday in Cornwall, browse all our holiday cottages to find your ideal getaway!