Cornwall is one of my favourite places on the planet – and its rugged coastlines, hidden coves, wild swims, cliff-top walks and sandy beaches also make it perfect for barefoot adventures. Whether you’re planning a coastal escape, a family holiday or an active weekender with friends, Aspects Holidays offers a brilliant range of cottages across Cornwall to suit every kind of gang of friends or family gathering (and every budget). From surf-hungry north coast beaches to the quieter, wilder edges of the far west perfect explored on two feet, these are some of the best cottages to base yourself at for an adventure-packed Cornish break.
1. Angrouse Cottage, Mullion
Tucked away in the village of Mullion on the Lizard Peninsula, Angrouse Cottage is a cosy thatched Cornish hideaway with bags of personality. Snug, welcoming and generous in size, it’s just the sort of place you’ll want to return to after salty, windswept days exploring one of Cornwall’s wildest stretches of coast. The huge kitchen, complete with an Aga, is perfect for whipping up supper after a big day outdoors.
Sleeps: 6
Local adventure: Walk the South West Coast Path from nearby Poldhu Cove, soaking up big sea views, bursts of wildflowers and gloriously rugged cliffs. Or head out kayaking from Mullion Cove with Lizard Adventure – keep your eyes peeled for seals bobbing alongside you.
2. Elsa’s Cottage, Mousehole
Set in the quirkily named village of Paul, Elsa’s Cottage is brimming with Cornish charm and perfectly placed for exploring far-west Cornwall. Mousehole’s harbour and great pubs are just a short stroll away, and back at home there are three inviting bedrooms – perfect for families – plus a wood burner to warm up by.
Sleeps: 5
Local adventure: Give Cornish coasteering a go. Coasteering Adventures run guided sessions that blend sea swimming, rock scrambling and cliff jumping – an exhilarating way to experience the coastline from a completely different perspective.
3. Spring Cottage, Crantock
The village of Crantock is a firm favourite with surfers, thanks to its wide sandy beach, consistent waves and relaxed vibe. Stay right in the heart of things at Spring Cottage, a bright, comfortable base just moments from the dunes and ideal for sandy feet, wetsuits on the line and post-surf refuelling in the suntrap courtyard.
Sleeps: 6
Local adventure: Book a surf lesson at Crantock Beach with Big Green Adventures, then wander through the dunes or follow the coast path towards Pentire for sweeping Atlantic views and golden-hour magic.
4. Dolcoath, Porthtowan
Set within the peaceful Towan Valley, eye-catching modern eco-home Dolcoath offers a calm, countryside feel while still being within easy reach of Porthtowan’s lively beach scene. It’s a great choice for groups who want the best of both worlds: space to unwind, with adventure right on the doorstep.
Sleeps: 6
Local adventure: Time your visit with the tide and take a swim in Porthtowan’s much-loved Mermaid Pool. Hidden below the rugged cliffs of Cornwall’s north coast, this wave-washed tidal pool fills at high tide with clear, aquamarine seawater. There’s a bit of a scramble over rocks to reach it, but that only adds to the sense of adventure.
5. Blue Door Barn, St Erth
Charming St Ives is perfect if you want creativity and coastline all in one place, but it can be a jam-packed place to stay. Head instead to Blue Door Barn, a tiny hideaway that’s perfect for couples, and catch the coastal train into town for your hit of beaches, galleries and coastal walks – all without needing the car.
Sleeps: 2
Local adventure: Walk from St Ives to Zennor along the South West Coast Path. This trek is demanding in places, but the rewards are dramatic cliffs, hidden coves and endless sea views. Refuel in Zennor (the local ice cream is legendary) before heading back to catch the train home.
6. Rosevear, Sennen
Just look at those huge sea views. Set close to the wide, windswept sands of Sennen Cove, Rosevear is a brilliant base for big-energy beach days and sunsets over the Atlantic. With space for larger groups to spread out, this open-plan beauty is ideal for friends or families who want to surf, explore and spend as much time outdoors as possible, then curl up with a book and a view come evening.
Sleeps: 8
Local adventure: Surf at Sennen Cove, one of Cornwall’s most iconic beaches. Whether you’re a beginner or more confident in the water, the cove’s consistent waves are the perfect place to spend long days chasing waves.
7. North Minack, Porthcurno
Oceanside afternoon tea and croquet on the lawn, anyone? Overlooking the turquoise waters of Porthcurno, North Minack puts you right on the edge of one of Cornwall’s most dramatic landscapes. You’re not far from surfing at Sennen or a dip at Porthcurno, one of Britain’s most beautiful beaches, and then this rather elegant base is ready for relaxed sunset suppers after big days out.
Sleeps: 6
Local adventure: Visit Cornwall’s iconic Minack Theatre, carved directly into the granite cliff face above the sea. Even if you don’t catch a performance, exploring the terraces and looking out over the ocean is an unforgettable experience.
8. The Crooked House, Penzance
As quirky and characterful as its name suggests, The Crooked House is full of colour and charm, and makes a brilliant base in the heart of Penzance. From here, you can explore west Cornwall by foot or train or dip into the town’s trendy cafés and galleries, and still have the sea firmly within reach.
Sleeps: 4
Local adventure: Start the day with a dip in Penzance’s Jubilee Pool, a much-loved art-deco lido perched right on the edge of the sea. Brave the unheated water, or opt for the geothermal pool and a session in the sauna.
