Cornwall holidays are hard to beat if you're looking for a break with spectacular scenery. Imagine picturesque countryside sprinkled with sleepy hamlets and a coastline which will take your breath away. It's little wonder that these holiday cottages in Cornwall are among the most popular!
Why Cornwall Holiday Cottages?
Cornwall is truly the region that has it all! Whether you’re looking for a countryside retreat or an unforgettable beach holiday, there’s Cornwall accommodation for everyone! Explore the region's greenery by visiting the abundance of breathtaking gardens including the sub-tropical haven, Trebah Gardens near Falmouth, Trevarno near Helston and The Lost Gardens of Heligan near Mevagissey. You can also visit the world-renowned Eden Project, home of tropical gardens and biomes.
If you’re looking for a holiday in Cornwall filled with history then you’re in luck as these cottages lie close to countless historic homes, such as National Trust-owned Lanhydrock, Cotehele and Antony House. Each of these country mansions has developed woodland walks, themed trails and adventure playgrounds to keep keen ramblers and the young ones entertained.
In summer months, take advantage of the gloriously white sandy beaches lining the idyllic coastline. People flock to the region to take advantage of these golden shores; if water sports are your thing, then be sure to head to Newquay where you can rub shoulders with other surfers or venture to Marazion where its beach reveals a causeway to the world-famous St Michael’s Mount.
For more inspiration on how to spend your time during your self-catering holiday in Cornwall, browse our Cornwall Travel Guide »
Places to visit near Cottages in Cornwall
If you're looking for a break with spectacular scenery, Cornwall holidays are hard to beat. The region boasts lush countryside, sprinkled with sleepy hamlets and a breath-taking coastline. It's no surprise that cottages in Cornwall are so popular!
Head to North Cornwall, boasting around 70 miles of Atlantic coastline, spanning from Hayle to Bude, encompassing popular coastal resorts like Padstow, Tintagel, Perranporth and the iconic beaches of Newquay. This area of the coast is popular with adventures looking to hike its rugged coastline or try their hand at watersports such as surfing, paddleboarding and kayaking.
South Cornwall offers a peaceful escape amidst rolling countryside, pretty harbours, secluded coves and stunning beaches that showcase phenomenal sunsets. The affectionately known 'Cornish Riviera' spans a section of the south coast between St Austell and St Mawes, and boasts crystal clear waters not commonly found in the UK. Other picturesque villages along the south coast include Fowey, Looe and Mevagissey.
West Cornwall is home to stunning attractions, access to heritage coastline and a vibrant culinary scene. Visit St Ives and stroll along its cobbled streets, adorned with galleries, including the popular Tate St Ives. Penzance is a short drive from the tidal island of St Michael's Mount, home to a castle and sub-tropical gardens. Visit the legendary landmark at Land's End near Sennen Cove and enjoy walking or cycling along the South West Coastal Path and moorland trails.
Whether you're looking for a fun-filled holiday packed with adventure or a relaxing retreat by the sea, you're sure to find your perfect break amongst these delightful holiday cottages in Cornwall.
Other popular places to visit near Cornish cottages:
Bodmin
Coverack
Downderry
Liskeard
Mullion
Polperro
Polzeath
Port Issac
Rock
Truro
Looking for a holiday cottage in Cornwall in a more specific location? Then check out more destinations in Cornwall »
Types of Cornwall Holidays
Bring everybody together on your Cornwall holiday by booking a large Cornwall cottage or Cornwall cottages for family holidays, or make sure that no one is left behind by choosing a pet-friendly Cornwall cottage. To fully appreciate the seascapes of this magnificent region, a Cornwall cottage by the coast or a Cornwall cottage close to the beach may be just the thing for you.
Perhaps you enjoy the finer things in life and would prefer luxury Cornwall holidays or a hot tub holiday in Cornwall, or maybe your tastes are better suited to traditional holidays in Cornwall or holiday parks in Cornwall.
If great value is what you're after, then take a look at these cheap Cornwall holidays, which offer fantastic locations and cosy places to stay at prices that are well worth a look.
For something a little different, browse this collection of Cornwall log cabins, Cornwall farm stays, apartments in Cornwall and unusual places to stay in Cornwall. You can even make a splash at a Cornwall cottage with a swimming pool or enjoy a sporty excursion with one of these Cornwall cottages near golf courses.
Looking for a weekend away to recharge? Book a Cornwall short break or last-minute cottage in Cornwall. You can even choose from this selection of romantic breaks in Cornwall!
If you still haven’t found what you’re looking for then don’t fret as there are plenty of other holiday cottages in the South West to choose from.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cornwall Holidays
What part of Cornwall is best for a holiday?
Cornwall truly offers something for everyone! With a wide array of landscapes from stunning countryside to idyllic coast and countless exciting experiences from surfing on award-winning beaches to breathtaking gardens; you’re sure to find something unforgettable here.
At Sykes we understand that people want different things out of their holidays, and a holiday to Cornwall is no different. Families looking to explore this region should consider Bude where there are swathes of safe, sandy beaches as well as exciting activities including kayaking, paddleboarding and even wild swimming in Bude Sea Pool, a famous tidal pool overlooking the sea.
Couples looking for a romantic break in Cornwall should consider visiting the thriving town of St Ives where idyllic beaches and romantic dining opportunities at restaurants like The Mermaid Seafood Restaurant and The Balcony Bar and Kitchen await. If you’re holidaying with a group of friends, venture to buzzing harbour towns like Padstow and Penzance where there are walking opportunities along the South West Coast Path and boat trips along the rugged Cornish coast.
What is the best month to go to Cornwall?
Cornwall is one of our most popular holiday destinations and we aren’t surprised given how much it has to offer. However, we understand people want to know the best month to visit.
For couples or groups looking to explore Cornwall away from the crowds, we’d recommend visiting in the months of May, June or September. The weather, although touch and go at times, is significantly better in these months and attractions, restaurants and activities are all opening meaning you can experience all Cornwall has to offer with fewer crowds.
For families, July and August are the best months to visit Cornwall. Not only will the kids be off school, but the atmosphere will be buzzing with excited other families on their holiday. There are a whole host of activities for families in the summer, from summer camps on the shores of Porthpean offering paddleboarding and kayaking to family-friendly festivals like Rock Oyster Festival.
Which is the prettiest place in Cornwall?
Cornwall is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful regions in the UK and choosing to holiday here means you get to experience it all. If you’re looking for the prettiest places in Cornwall, we’d recommend visiting Port Isaac, a picturesque village with cobbled streets, narrow, winding paths and unbeatable views across the sea.
There is also the idyllic Kynance Cove in West Cornwall, best known for its turquoise waters that make it easily mistakable for an exotic beach and the abundance of rock pools and hidden caves that appear at low tide. If you’re looking for the prettiest attraction then St Michael’s Mount, a majestic castle dominating the coast on a tidal island off the coast of Marazion, has to take the prize.
How many days do you need to explore Cornwall?
Cornwall is a huge region with lots to see and do. Ideally, we’d recommend spending 5 to 7 days exploring this breathtaking county. This allows you to see a variety of towns and villages, experience the varied landscape and enjoy countless activities; from the world-famous Eden Project to the Minack Theatre carved into the cliff-edge; there are lots of bucket list opportunities to tick off.
However, Cornwall is also perfect for those seeking a short getaway or a weekend break. We’d recommend focusing on a specific region in this instance. Spend a weekend exploring North Cornwall, South Cornwall or West Cornwall. Each has its own charm and offers something different, but there’s still plenty to keep you busy.