Portreath

Portreath is a characterful north coast village with a sandy beach, historic harbour and dramatic cliffs on either side. It has a slightly more rugged, local feel than some of Cornwall’s bigger resort beaches, which is part of its charm. The beach is popular with families, bodyboarders and surfers, though the sea can be powerful, so it is best to use lifeguarded areas when cover is in place. Dog restrictions apply on Portreath Beach, including the harbour area: dogs are not allowed from 1 July to 31 August, between 10am and 6pm.

The harbour is one of Portreath’s best features. It gives the village a distinctive identity, with old stone walls, fishing boats and a sense of its mining-era past. At low tide, the beach opens out for paddling, rock-pooling and beach games, while the surrounding cliffs offer excellent views back over the cove.

For food and drink, The Basset Arms is a strong local option, offering a relaxed pub setting close to the beach. The Atlantic Café Beach Bar is another handy choice for casual food, drinks, cakes or ice cream with a beach view.

Walking is one of the real highlights. The coast path east from Portreath to Porthtowan is a brilliant clifftop route, with steep sections, steps, mining remains, sea views and wild Atlantic scenery along the way. It is not the easiest stroll, but it is one of the best ways to appreciate this stretch of coast.

Slightly north of the Portreath, explore the disused tin mines of this coast line. Poldark fans will no doubt be familiar with the name Wheal Coates Tin Mine. Now managed by the National Trust, this site gives a glorious show of heather in the summer months and spectacular photo opportunities featuring the mine against the backdrop of this stunning coastline.

Portreath and its neighbouring areas will make you want to return to you luxury holiday cottage or home again and again.