Rural Retreats: Experience Wild Luxury This Summer

Our Hidden Gems are places that balance rural adventure, with the wholesome comforts of home. From cosying up around the fire pit within acres of private grounds, to watching the starriest skies from your outdoor hot tub, connecting with nature is made even more magical within these settings. With up to 35% off stays this summer, we invite you to assemble your crew and make for the wilds of Cornwall…

Don’t forget, if you enter our #WhereWeGo competition, you could WIN a £500 voucher to spend on any Cornish Gems holiday. Until 30th September 2023, if you post your favourite place in Cornwall on Instagram, telling us why it means so much to you, and tagging @cornishgemsholidays and #WhereWeGo, you’ll be automatically entered in our competition. Bonus points – if you subscribe to our newsletter, you’ll get an extra entry! Take a look at some of our favourite entries so far.

Polsue Farm House, The Roseland Peninsula (sleeps 8)

Nature takes centre stage at Polsue Farm House. The garden flaunts lush botanicals and the patchwork of terraces, paddocks, lawns and fields beg for exploration. With almost nine acres of land, space and freedom are gifted in abundance. The freshest of produce from both land and sea can be collected from Curgurrell Farm in Portscatho, and used to create delicious seasonal meals. For off-the-beaten-track tranquility, Polsue promises it all.

But it’s not all countryside bliss: the nearest beaches are just a 6-7 minute drive away. Beautiful Caerhays is a place where soft sands meet crystal clear waters under the watch of the Castle. Our guests also like to follow the coast road up to Mevagissey, where traditional fishing boats haul their catch daily.

Trewartha Cottage, Mithian (sleeps 4)

Leafy and peaceful, this lovely new Gem is an absolute dream for dogs and their owners. Dogs are allowed on nearby Perranporth beach all year round, the enclosed garden is a safe space to roam (or snooze), and there’s even an overly dog-friendly pub just a short walk down the country lane. Families, friends or couples can fully immerse in St Agnes and Perranporth’s natural beauty, before some well-deserved rest and relaxation in the outdoor hot tub.

Why we love it: The champagne bar and hot tub under twinkly fairy lights!

Kilminorth Barton, Looe (sleeps 4)

Awake to birdsong, glorious sunrises and breathtaking countryside views – Kilminorth Barton is a welcome retreat for those looking to swap a busy timetable, for some rest, tranquility and sense of isolation. The organic farmhouse inspired interiors complement the sweeping valley views.

With 360 degree countryside views, spacious terraces inviting al fresco dining, and passing wildlife -including the occasional wild deer – there’s really no need to venture anywhere else. For added indulgence, the terrace includes a cedar clad, wood-fired bath. Aaand, relax.

We recommend: Take the five minute drive into Looe, a quaint coastal town with characterful taverns and pretty views.

Meadow’s Nest, Callestick (sleeps 2)

Close to the north Cornwall coastline yet with the feel of being far away from anywhere, this home for two really is a ‘nest’ amongst the greenery. Time and time again, guests comment on the ideal location (for exploring north Cornwall), the beautifully thoughtful interior design, and relaxing outdoor space.

“Meadow’s Nest provided the perfect cocoon for our week of relaxation.”

“We’ve enjoyed the peace and tranquility, and the ability to visit new places. Thank you for creating the ‘Nest’, we may fly but we will be back. Don’t change a single thing.”

“We are very sad to be leaving Meadow’s Nest. We had the most gorgeous weekend relaxing, taking in the beautiful views from all angles and exploring the stunning local area.”

What the owners love most about Meadow’s Nest: “Big skies, fantastic views, yet conveniently located just a stones throw from the breathtaking expanse of Perranporth beach and the raw North Atlantic. Having both enjoyed the simple pleasures of countryside life growing up as children, we wanted to find a place to settle that could offer space, air and freedom for our future family.”

The Willows, Fowey (sleeps 10)

Once a forgotten barn, The Willows has been expertly restored and designed to perfection. With all the characterful hallmarks of a stone agricultural barn, but with a modern country aesthetic, the house has a homely yet stylish feel. Set within three acres of meadow and landscaped garden, and with a new outdoor kitchen, summertime at The Willows is just perfect. And when the rain arrives, The Willows is the perfect hideaway in which to pull out the board games and enjoy quality time together. From the garden gate, dogs and children can run free in the meadow, which offers dreamy views of the River Fowey.

We recommend: A gin or vodka masterclass at Colwith Farm Distillery.

Boslagen, near Wadebridge (sleeps 2)

“As if floating on its natural pond”, Boslagen seamlessly blends with the surrounding natural environment. With an emphasis on low carbon travel, the owner has created a magical rural escape in north Cornwall. Let the natural pond and outdoor bath wash away any remnants of city living.

Nearby adventure: The Camel Trail (Wadebridge to Padstow)

Alta, Helford (sleeps 10)

Set high above the creeks and inlets of the Helford River, Alta is a summer oasis. Offering 1.5 acres of established Cornish garden, complete with a large lawn, six seater Jacuzzi, and sunken fire pit, magical memories are made here. 180 degree views sweep from Polweveral creek, across fields to the peninsula and the shimmering sea in the distance. The unspoilt beauty of Cornwall awaits, with Port Navas and Helford Passage a short drive away.

“It was a perfect place to relax in. We loved wandering around the garden, looking at all the different areas and plantings. With the view we felt very spoilt, and the peaceful location made it easy to switch off and enjoy the surroundings. We brought our own cycles and had some great rides along the quiet, local roads. I would recommend Alta to anyone wanting to escape for a week and enjoy the great outdoors, but in a luxurious setting.“

Little Cutmadoc Farm, Lanhydrock (sleeps 8)

Indulge yourself in the bubbling hot tub with only the local pheasants and birds to disturb… The thoughtfully landscaped grounds of Little Cutmadoc surround a private lake, and have been planted with lush green tree ferns and palms.

We recommend: Pop to Lostwithiel – a delightful, artisan influenced town located next to the river Fowey. Take a picnic to enjoy by the riverside.

The peace and quiet you’ll find in some of the county’s quieter spots are embraced by our Hidden Gems. Little ones will love discovering the sights and sounds of Cornwall’s countryside, and students will enjoy swapping the classroom for fresh air and freedom. With up to 35% off this summer, Cornwall is calling…