The south coast of England, dubbed the Cornish Riviera, is home to picturesque harbour villages, from Fowey to Falmouth, and dotted along the shoreline are some of the UK‘s most stylish stays. With seafood delights sourced fresh from local waters, cocktails kissed by the sea breeze and interiors that resonate with coastal colours, these havens promise a chic escape to the coast.
Whether you seek a romantic getaway for two, a family beach adventure or a solo sojourn to rediscover your inner bliss, Cornwall‘s coastal hotels have it all. Join us on a journey as we explore the most captivating retreats in the South West of England, from historic clifftop manors to revitalised inns on the waters edge.
Our selection of the most beautiful Cornish hotels
The Pig at Harlyn Bay
As you skirt along the Northern coast of Cornwall and wrap around to Padstow, it is hard not to be taken in by the charming allure of The Pig at Harlyn Bay. A true coastal gem steeped in history and brimming with character, the hotel dates back to the 15th century. Here, renowned restaurateurs and chefs Rick Stein and Paul Ainsworth are proud to call the area home, an enticing draw for any foodie adventurer.
Overlooking the mesmerising sea, perfect for an afternoon of cliff walking, The Pig at Harlyn Bay boasts a myriad of original features and delightful quirks. Nestled just a short stroll away from the sun-kissed shores of Harlyn and Constantine Bay beaches, and within a stone’s throw there are vibrant towns of Rock and Polzeath.
The hotel offers a kaleidoscope of room choices, each adorned with unique character. You’ll find the Main House, where bedrooms offer splendid views of the headland and the breath-taking bay, or the lush gardens. There is also the traditional stone building known as Stonehouse, which boasts serene views of the courtyard. And for something even more outdoorsy, retreat to one of the four romantic Garden Wagons, with stunning vistas of the surrounding fields.
Address: Harlyn, Padstow PL28 8SQ
Website: thepighotel.com
Scarlet Hotel
Nestled along the rugged coastline, the soothing sound of the sea welcomes you as you check in to the adults-only Scarlet Hotel. Here, every detail is meticulously crafted to harmonise with nature’s grandeur, offering a serene retreat that celebrates the coastal wonders of Cornwall.
Thoughtful rooms are designed to embrace the elements, boasting outside space that invites you to immerse yourself in the waves, winds and gulls. Deep, coastal colours draw inspiration from the nearby wildflowers, rock pools and sea mosses, creating an ambiance that reflects the harmony of the Cornish surroundings. At the hotel’s restaurant, slow-aged steaks and sustainably caught seafood await, a testament to the considered ethos of the kitchen team.
The real draw of the hotel is the eco spa embedded within the clifftop, with a reed pool offering nothing but coastal views and fresh Atlantic sea air. After a deeply soothing massage in a lantern-lit treatment room, make the most of the cedar wood sauna and a restorative steam room.
Address: Tredragon Rd, Mawgan Porth, Newquay TR8 4DQ
Website: scarlethotel.co.uk
The Idle Rocks
Cornish hotels don’t come more idyllic than The Idle Rocks: a pretty boutique hotel perfectly perched on the waters edge of the charming village of St Mawes. The 19-bedroom Relais & Châteaux hotel really is a quintessential home away from home, with each room thoughtfully decorated with coastal charm embracing the waterside views.
During the day, savour the breath-taking ocean views from the hotel, unwind in the inviting homely lounge, or take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque harborside village. For those seeking adventure, set sail in the hotel’s very own sailing boat, or explore the captivating Roseland Peninsula on a guided walking tour. Just a few yards away, sister property The St Mawes Hotel has a cinema to escape any stormy summer nights.
A foodie favourite, The Idle Rocks’ culinary delights are overseen by the talented eye of head chef Matt Haggath, who, as you would expect, makes the most of local Cornish suppliers and fishermen. Expect the very best of seasonal flavours and, when the summer sun beams down, take to the long terrace which cuts along the white-washed walls of the hotel and sip cocktails while the waves splash up against the rocks.
Address: Harbourside, Tredenham Rd, St Mawes, Truro TR2 5AN
Website: idlerocks.com
Artist Residence Penzance
Travelling down to almost the deepest tip of Cornwall, you reach picturesque seaside town of Penzance, where an enchanting revitalised Georgian inn is nestled: the Artist Residence. This extraordinary gem brings a touch of eccentric charm to its homely and eclectic bedrooms and a cosy 3-bedroom cottage.
Tucked away on historic Chapel Street, this beautiful abode offers the perfect starting point for daily forays to local beaches and mesmerising trips to the legendary Isles of Scilly. Step outside, and a short stroll leads you to the heart of Penzance town, where quaint pubs, delectable restaurants and lively bars beckon. Bask in the allure of the unique art deco lido and savour a view of the fairy-tale that is St Michael’s Mount.
The hotel’s bedrooms are a visual delight, set across three floors of a Georgian coach house accessible by stairs. For those seeking a touch of luxury, Super Comfy Luxe bedrooms, Lofts and the Chapel Suite offer a little extra space to unwind. As the sun sets, the sunny terrace garden becomes an idyllic spot for sundowners, with frozen margaritas served al fresco.
Address: 20 Chapel St, Penzance TR18 4AW
Website: artistresidence.co.uk
Carbis Bay Estate
Amongst the breath-taking beauty of one of the world’s most stunning bays, Carbis Bay Estate‘s 25-acre Blue Flag beach, top-notch cuisine and stunning spa promises the ultimate relaxation while staying in Cornwall. For those seeking an oceanfront escape, the Beach Houses and ultra-chic Beach Lodges and Suites offer barefoot escapism at its finest. Imagine strolling to the spa in your dressing gown, just a towel’s throw away from the pool and its deckchair-dotted terrace.
Carbis Bay Estate takes culinary excellence to new heights with an exciting and diverse collection of eateries. Down on the sands is the laid-back Beach Club, where sun-soaked Mediterranean-style delights await. Think hand-picked Cornish crab, fresh fish from St Ives day boats, succulent steaks and handmade pizzas. But the pièce de résistance is Ugly Butterfly by chef Adam Handling, who has taken residence on the top floor offering British food, inspired by Cornwall.
Uniquely set within 125 acres of awe-inspiring coastline, Carbis Bay Estate boasts its own Blue Flag sandy beach, and the recently relaunched C Bay Spa has a show-stopping outdoor pool, where swimmers are greeted with sensational views from its infinity edge.
Address: Carbis Bay, Saint Ives TR26 2NP
Website: carbisbayhotel.co.uk
