There’s no doubt that Cornwall is an idyllic destination for a walking holiday, with miles of coast path, sandy beaches, peaceful woodlands and vast countryside waiting to be explored. And after a day of rambling, there’s nothing better than returning to a relaxing cottage to put your feet up. Whether you're looking for a rural bolthole or coastal apartment, we’ve got holiday cottages close to some of Cornwall’s most beautiful walks and stunning scenery! Here's a few of our top cottages for a unforgettable walking getaway!
The Decks, Perranporth
Nestled within the majestic sand dunes, miles of beautiful walks are on your doorstep at The Decks (sleeps 6) in Perranporth. From the stylish reverse-level retreat, you can take a picturesque ramble towards the iconic views of Holywell Bay, or head across the beachfront to discover the route that leads to the quaint village of St Agnes! A short stroll from the beach through the bustling high street takes you to the Saints Trail, a pretty inland stroll alongside a dappled stream, with ancient ruins showing the parish’s railway past... from old mines to viaducts and secret tunnels! If you're looking for one of Perranporth's most rewarding walks, this is a favourite with our team in the Perranporth office, "From The Decks you can join the coast path by walking down the road to the golf club and across to the clifftop, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views across Perranporth Beach. Head along the path, soaking up the spectacular coastal scenery as you make your way to the Summer House. It's the perfect place to relax with a refreshing drink or enjoy a leisurely lunch. The cliffs are a popular launch point for paragliders, and it's a wonderful sight to watch them catch the rising thermals before soaring gracefully above the coastline, with surfers riding the waves far below"
Sea Thrift, Mevagissey
Set within a former Vicarage, Sea Thrift (sleeps 2) is located in a beautiful rural corner of Mevagissey with views of the coast and countryside! Light and bright, it’s a relaxing sanctuary where you can unwind after a day of woodland walking or coastal strolling! A stone’s throw from the apartment is a circular route near the Lost Gardens of Heligan. Around 2 miles, its mix of woodland, valley views ,and fields and few gentle hill climbs It's a walk that’s loved by Tracy from our Mevagissey office ‘Morning walks are the best for our doggy Muffin! We love to follow the Heligan Trail, popping into Lobbs Farm Shop for some tasty lunchtime goodies on the way! Sunshine, fresh air, and cooler for happy paws, with a few delicious treats for lunch later. Ideal!”
Tesen Gales, Pendeen
Tesen Gales (sleeps 5) is a traditional Cornish cottage overlooking the Atlantic, where classic features are beautifully blended with modern amenities, perfect for those looking for a relaxing bolthole in scenic Cornwall. The rugged coastline is a short walk away, where you’ll discover miles of unspoilt scenery, quaint coves and ocean views. Rich in mining history too, the walks around Pendeen and beyond offer a glimpse into Cornwall’s heritage. Holiday Co-ordinator Jackie can often be found on this stretch of the coast with her family “We love to walk along the coast path starting at Pendeen lighthouse, the ruggedness of the cliffs is breathtaking. If the sea is rough, it’s even more spectacular when the waves crash up over the rocks. Some roll in the size of small mountains! Taking the path to Geevor Tin Mine, we love to stop at The Counthouse Café for refreshments. They serve up the best breakfasts and cakes. If we feel fit after, we may carry on the path to Levant Mine. It’s worth the extra mile, as you pass the old mines you try to imagine what life was like back then. It really is like stepping back in time!”
Trewgylan, St Mawes
Located on the waterside in picturesque St Mawes, boasting uninterrupted views of the Fal estuary, Tregwylan (sleeps 8) is mere moments from an array of walks along the coast path and around the beautiful Roseland peninsula. With a sea-facing terrace, sea-view balcony and outdoor kitchen, Tregylwan makes the most of the spectacular view, an idyllic spot to come back to after a day of exploring. The harbourside is a short stroll away, where you can hop on a ferry to Falmouth and explore even further afield! Regional Manager, Amy loves to walk this corner of Cornwall “My absolute favourite walk in Cornwall has to be from Castle Drive in St Mawes to the beautiful 13th-century St Just in Roseland Church. From Tregwylan you’ll head off towards the iconic St Mawes Castle and down to the lovely harbour, before taking the peaceful waterside path that follows the Carrick Roads towards St Just in Roseland (around 3 miles), with breathtaking estuary views that, in my opinion, are some of the most spectacular in Cornwall. The walk takes you to the beautiful St Just in Roseland Church, hidden amongst lush subtropical gardens. The churchyard was once described by John Betjeman (Poet Laureate) as "to many people the most beautiful churchyard on earth", and it’s honestly easy to see why! Before heading home, I’d highly recommend treating yourself to something from Renwicks Café! The full route is around 6 miles and is one of those walks that stays with you and feels special every single time. I’ve even managed it with a toddler on my back!”
The Shed, Portreath
For the best of both coast and countryside, you can’t beat Tehidy Country Park, Cornwall’s largest woodlands! Stay at The Shed (sleeps 2), a charming bolthole set within secluded gardens, located by one of the woodland entrances, where the enchanting estate is not far away! Stunning woodlands offer miles of pathways from circular strolls to longer rambles that take you from woodlands to the beautiful coastal path of the North Cliffs, where you can join the South West Coast Path near Portreath. With friendly squirrels greeting you as you walk toward the lake, you’ll find an abundance of local wildlife from ducks, swans, birds and fish! There are also delicious treats available at Tehidy Woods Cafe! Property Manager, Paul often walks through the woods “I love walking Monty through the woods, especially in the summer as it’s so shaded. Mornings are especially great as you see the sun rise, along with hearing the dawn chorus as the wildlife awakens. The squirrels are a great source of humour for Monty as they scamper around the trees. If you are lucky, you might see the fish feeding around the edges of the lake. I am often found in the cafe, with a piece of cake and a can of lemonade!”
Anchorage Cottage, Porthleven
Perfect for walkers and keen foodies, Porthleven is a popular harbour town on the west Cornwall coast. Anchorage Cottage (sleeps 4) is a delightful cottage a short stroll from the harbourside. Light and spacious, with a woodburner for chillier months it is a perfectly placed for exploring the harbour, beach and nearby coastal paths. You're also a short walk from an array of well-renowned eateries, from cafes to seafood and woodfired pizza... all served up with a side of sea views! Property Manager, Rosina lives in The Lizard and looks after our Porthleven properties, so is always out and about “I am spoilt for choice of where to go for a nice walk (or run if I am feeling energetic enough) around Porthleven and beyond, but when I do venture out, Penrose Estate is a beautiful place to explore, which you can walk to via the coastal path from Porthleven or hop in the car! With shorter walks, or the longer lap of the entire lake, you can decide on the day how far you wish to walk by simply picking your starting point. You can also grab a tasty treat at the National Trust stables cafe and enjoy the secluded, peaceful walled gardens. I love walking around the lake, as each section is so different, with rolling fields, quiet creeks, woodland, and even a beach at Loe Bar!"
Westerly House, Bude
A short walk from Crooklets beach and the coast path in Bude, Westerly House (sleeps 16) is a modern townhouse perfect for a seaside holiday with all the family! Set across four floors, there are seven bedrooms and two living areas, with a garden and lovely views too. Everything Bude has to offer is easily accessible on foot, whether you want to hit the coast for a scenic ramble or take a leisurely stroll along the canal. Diane, from our Property and Customer Support says “One of my favourite walks is along the shoreline from Crooklets beach to Northcott Mouth when the tide is out. Vast expanses of sand with intriguing rock pools full of sealife stretch for miles, and you will pass the remains of a shipwreck mostly buried in the sand but visible at low tide. The SS Belem ran aground in 1917 just north of Northcott Mouth Beach. If the tide is on the way in, you can still enjoy a walk along the South West Coast path, from Crooklets, through Maer Down and down into Northcott where a delightful little cafe, run from a horsebox, is situated just back from the beach. Often I walk one way on the beach, and then return along the path or vice versa depending on the tide!"
The Penthouse, Newquay
Located on Pentire, The Penthouse (sleeps 6) is in the popular peninsula in Newquay where you’ll find the iconic Fistral beach to one side, and the idyllic shoreline of Crantock and the Gannel estuary on the other! It’s a great spot for those looking for a variety of walks, from leisurely beach walks to coastal hikes, countryside strolls and fun-filled wanders around the boating lake, fun park and pretty gardens! The apartment boasts incredible views of both coast and countryside, has a wraparound balcony and plenty of space for all the family! The Penthouse sleeps six with three ample bedrooms and open plan living area overlooking the sea! Communications and PR manager Gemma lives in Newquay and says "One of my favourites is a walk that takes in many of Newquay's beautiful beaches. The Penthouse is the perfect starting point, as you can walk down the coast path to head across Fistral beach, and around towards the harbour. From the harbour you can walk across the sand at low tide or through the town at high tide taknig you all the way to Porth! If you're feeling energetic, join the South West Coast Path for the final stretch to the stunning Watergate Bay. There's plenty of places to stop for a coffee or a bite to eat, it's the perfect way to spend a day. Blend at Lusty Glaze is a particular favourite for refreshing smoothie bowls and great coffee."
Feeling inspired and ready to pack your walking boots and head to the Cornish coast? Take a look at all our holiday cottages here.
Tags: Walking