With the West Country deemed one of the best staycation destinations for 2020, you can’t find many escapes better than Cornwall. Home to dramatic coastline, stunning beaches, beautiful countryside and pretty seaside towns there’s a whole heap to explore…
Take a look at some of our favourite spots on the South Cornwall coast, particularly for those seeking breath-taking photo opportunities.
1. Pop into Polperro
Spend a lazy afternoon wandering through the picturesque village of Polperro. This quaint seaside village with tiny fisherman’s cottages is a must-see. Pop into a local pub for a pint of Cornish ale or enjoy some of the tastiest fish and chips by the harbour.
2. Explore Restormel Castle, Lostwithiel
Under supervision from English Heritage this castle was once the luxurious residence of the Earl of Cornwall. The castle was all but ruined in the 16th century before being briefly reoccupied and fought over during the English Civil war. Restormel Castle is notable for its circular design, standing in ruins amid beautiful countryside. It is open to the public so you can explore for yourself...
3. Relax at Readymoney Cove
This ‘off the beaten track’ cove is well worth a visit. Its south-east facing sandy beach is sheltered by cliffs at the mouth of the River Fowey on one side, and the medieval town of Fowey on the other. With tropical blue waters and a bathing platform moored in the sea, it’s hard to believe you're in the UK.
4. Sail around Charlestown
Charlestown near St Austell famed for its collection of tall ships and a grade II listed harbour, which recently caught the limelight thanks to the BBC series Poldark. Why not embark on your own adventure and book a morning or afternoon sailing trip from Charlestown.
5. Cream tea with a view at Mevagissey
No trip to Cornwall is complete without a Cornish cream tea with lashings of Rodda's cream. Take a trip to the harbour town of Mevagissey and indulge in the view. It's a perfect way to spend your day!
6. Picnic at Porthcurnick Beach
A short walk along the south west coast path from the Driftwood Hotel and you'll stumble across the beautiful Porthcurnick Beach in Portscatho. Also known as the Cornish Riviera. Treat yourself to lunch or an ice cream at the secluded Hidden Hut and get snap happy with this beautiful sandy cove.
7. Watch the sun set in St Mawes
Situated on the Roseland Peninsula, positioned within the gulf stream the climate is very mild all year round. As a result, the beautiful gardens of St Mawes are quite spectacular with exquisite flora and fauna. Enjoy an evening dip in the harbour to cool off and watch nature’s beautiful display as the sun sets on the horizon.
8. See the church at St Just
Poet Sir John Betjeman described St Just in Roseland as "the most beautiful churchyard on earth" and we couldn't agree more. Set above the tidal creek at St Just Pool with beautifully kept grounds and luxuriously planted with many sub-tropical species, it's picture perfect.
9. Take to the water at Gyllyngvase Beach
Head west along the coast to Falmouth. Here you’ll find four beaches, a Maritime Museum, and an Art Gallery—there's lots to see! Our favourite spot – is Gyllyngvase Beach - over looked by the imposing Pendennis Castle and with fantastic views of the Lizard Peninsula. Hire a SUP and paddle out to sea to admire the beauty for yourself.
10. Wake to the waves at Driftwood
Perfectly placed on the South Cornwall coast, set within seven acres of gardens and grounds, and hiding a secret beach at the end of a wooded path. You will not find stays better than this. Wake to the waves lapping on the seashore and enjoy a full Cornish breakfast to start the day. Spend your time exploring some of our favourite instagrammable spots and return to an indulgent dinner in our sea view restaurant. Also, don't forget to enjoy a pre or post-dinner tipple on our terrace to soak up THE best view on the south Cornish coast. Ok, so we may be a little biased, but you won't be disappointed.
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