Cornwall Cottages

Cornwall is the ultimate holiday destination for many people owing to its location on the south west coast of England, with the beaches and atmosphere creating a feeling of being abroad. It is is so much more than sun, sea and sand, it has its own unique charm and a wild exuberance that attracts all types of visitor whilst, still allowing you to escape the bustle and appreciate the quiet peace and simplicity of a country life. A county that is alive with colour, is dramatic and exciting and one that has inspired many a writer and artist.

Noted for its geology and coastal scenery, wild moorland landscapes, varied coastline and quaint attractive villages. It is not surprising that extensive areas of the coastline and Bodmin Moor are protected and in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

It is almost always sunny here and temperatures tend to be more temperate and this creates its own micro-climate where tropical plants and flowers thrive. You can expect over 1500 hours of sunshine here annually. There is nowhere better so watch a sunset on a clear evening.

Without a doubt home to some of the best and cleanest beaches in the UK, many have blue flag status and feature on numerous best beaches in Europe/World polls. Hidden coves and beautiful sandy beaches dot the 300 miles of coastline and are a huge draw for visitors. Dramatic craggy cliffs and towering dunes feature here. The soft golden sands and crystal clear waters have a tropical feel and are reminiscent of the Caribbean. Pretty much every village has its own beach so you are spoiled for choice. Godvery Beach, Harlyn Bay, Kyance Cove Marazion Beach, Praa Sands, Perranporth, Portcurno Beach, Sennen and many, many more.

Cornwall is home to some of the best restaurants in the UK, and is referred to as the capital of fine dining for good reason. Many celebrity chefs have opened restaurants which, supports this testimony. You are assured great food and all tastes are catered for from, Cornish pasties and scrumptious cream teas to fresh fish and chips. Farmers markets are a regular feature here in the towns and villages where you can source local produce or artisan products. Fresh seafood is a real allure here and at the quaint fishing villages you can watch the fishing boats coming in with their catch in the evenings.

The diversity of attractions is second to none, Cornwall's top attractions are positively A-list. Just think Eden Project, Minack Theatre, Tate St Ives, St Michael's Mount, Tintagel Castle, Barbra Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, Bodmin and Wentworth Railway, and The Exchange just being a sampling of the incredible places you will discover.

Free days out are not hard to plan with so much on the doorstep, choose from intriguing historical landmarks, bike trails, colourful and energetic festivals, secret glorious beaches, beautiful woodland parks, explore a cave, hunt for fossils, feed the ducks, go crabbing, rock-pooling and nature trails, are just some of what is on offer. Visit the huge adventure playground at Heartlands where there is lots to entertain inquisitive children. Take a trip to Roskilly's ice cream farm found on the Lizard, or Callestick near Truro, here you can meet the animals, stroll through the valley meadows and see ice cream being made. Unfortunately you do have to buy your ice cream cone but well worth it for these delicious treats. Falmouth has a fabulous free art gallery and provides free workshops and events catering to small children and families in addition to its vibrant exhibitions. There is so much to see and do without having to put your hand in your pocket here in Cornwall.

History abounds with the former mining industry being one of Cornwall's top attractions. The abandoned mines transport you back to the county's strong industrial past. TV programmes like Poldark have reinforced the popularity.

Cornwall is literally scattered with ancient and archaeological sites, some being older than the pyramids. Get a glimpse into past civilizations through these historical remnants including, stone circles, Neolithic quoits, tors, Bronze Age villages and holy wells.

Historic castles, stately homes and gardens are in abundance. Iconic locations like St Michaels Mount which, is steeped in mystery and enchanting tales, The Lost Gardens of Heligan large botanical gardens with some intriguing sculptures, Tintagel Castle said to be King Arthur's birthplace and you can now walk the new footbridge that links the two halves of Tintagel Castle for the first time in more than 500 years.

Cool hangouts, secret bars and hidden haunts are waiting to be discovered. Some are obvious like The Watering Hole, Perranporth, the only beach bar in the UK, it is actually right in the middle of the beach. Others are not as obvious and need to be sought out.

Some of the best summer music festivals in the country take place here including, Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival, Tropical Pressure Festival, Boardmasters Festival, Cornwall Folk Festival, Bude Jazz, St. Ives September Festival and Looe Live. There is a full itinerary of events and a wide range of festivals that take place throughout the year.

Pretty ancient fishing villages and harbours tend to meld together. These villages are vibrant and bursting with character and a quintessential charm. Take time to walk the narrow cobbled streets, with traditional cottages, visit the art galleries featuring work of talented artists, many are located in unusual buildings, pop in to quirky boutiques and shops where you might find some unusual souvenirs. The welcoming cafés and warm and cosy pubs serve the best of local produce. Each village has its own uniqueness and charm.

Port Isaac is a small picturesque traditional fishing village and best known for the filming location for the TV series Doc Martin. It is steeped in history with 18th century fisherman cottages. On summer evenings in the harbour you can hear the famous shanty group, Fishermen's Friends singing. It almost feels like you have stepped back in time.

Lands End is the furthest place south you can go in England, it is literally the last tip of land before the Atlantic Ocean. It is well known for its spectacular natural beauty from the craggy cliff tops to the breathtaking countryside.

St Ives provides the quintessential holiday, from deck chairs on the beach to delicious Cornish ice-cream or fish and chips on the beach. Home to the St Ives Tate Gallery it exudes an air of sophistication with its fabulous art scene.

Falmouth is best known for its deep harbour and pretty beaches. Make sure to visit the well-preserved 16th century Pendennis Castle built by Henry VIII and the national Maritime Museum with its interactive galleries. Nearby are the Trebah Gardens home to subtropical plants. Regatta week is on August and is a great time to go and enjoy the festivities.

Padstow is best known as a foodie destination, and is home to Rick Stein's The Seafood Restaurant. Take a tour of the Padstow Brewing Company and sample some of their beers and ales.

Cornwall is the ultimate destination for those who enjoy the outdoors, land and sea provide bountiful activities. Walking, cycling, hiking, coasteering, horse-riding, bird watching the list is endless. The sea provides its own playground with swimming, sailing, surfing, paddle boarding, diving, fishing, kayaking and much, much more. You can be adventurous as you dare here. Lazy days or adrenalin packed it is down to you.

Learn to surf here with some of the best rolling surf around. Professional surf schools are plentiful and you can learn safely and hire equipment. Newquay, is the UK's surf capital, and is home to lovely beaches and some great places to eat.

Summed up Cornwall is simply special, its uniqueness draws you in and you can't let go, add to this the diversity of things to see and do, places to eat and drink and it equates to the perfect holiday destination. Once visited never forgotten and you will most likely find yourself returning again and again to this blissful and exquisite location.