In praise of south Cornwall...

South Cornwall is the West Country at its most gentle and lovely: deep, wooded valleys between sheep and cattle-grazed fields, long sandy beaches, high headlands and pretty fishing villages.

There’s plenty to see and do – from grand historical National Trust properties Buckland Abbey, Lanhydrock House and Cotehele, to the modern wonder that is the Eden Project.

If you’re feeling active, the aptly named Adrenalin Quarry boasts the UK’s longest, highest and fastest zipwire. Similarly, Tree Surfers also offers zip wires, in addition to a high ropes course, archery and mountain biking. For something a little more sedate, Canoe Tamar allows you to manoeuvre your own Canadian canoe along the river Tamar in complete safety, travelling at your own speed on a gently flowing river with a qualified guide.

And if you’re heading to the area in July and August you might like to try the literary and musical delights of the Port Eliot Festival or the family-friendly Liskeard Country Show.

Of course, we’ve many fantastic cottages in the area:

On the outskirts of the tiny village of Lanreath and its cosy pub is Tresawson Farm, a detached, 18th century cottage situated at the end of 350 yards of private lane and looking serenely out over an acre of beautifully kept garden. Inside, it is newly decorated and refurbished and stylish. A large conservatory with impressive views, a large open plan lounge and dining room and a colourful, modern kitchen make this a favourite base for exploring the area.

Pleydon, a spacious 16th century detached stone farmhouse is situated beside a tree-shaded lane on the hillside just east of the pretty fishing village of Polperro. It’s a lovely homely cottage with lots of original features. Polperro is one of Cornwall’s most famous villages, wedged into a tiny gap in the cliffs, with a very pretty harbour, narrow streets, old slate-roofed cottages, pubs, restaurants and shops, and no cars allowed!  

Just east of Pensilva, a large moorland village with origins in Cornwall’s tin mining history, is Christmas Cottage, a recently built, ‘upside down’ detached house. Situated in a wonderfully private, deeply wooded location, the property has stunning long rural views over 24 acres of woods and paddocks, full of birdsong and wildlife and over which you are welcome to walk. Inside is contemporary and comfortable, with lots of sunlight through French windows. A very romantic spot and an excellent base for walking.

We’ve just taken on two stylish new properties in the area as well – The Sealoft in Talland Bay, just a few hundred yards from the cliff path, and Beach Way in Cawsand, virtually opposite the beach.

Click here to see a list of all our other cottages within the area.

If you need any help searching for a cottage or planning your summer holiday with us, do give our friendly bookings team a call on 01647 433593 or email on help@helpfulholidays.com.

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