The Cove
Lamorna Cove, Nr Penzance, Cornwall
Contemporary hotel with seaside-chic apartments and heated swimming pool hidden away in a wooded valley in far west Cornwall
Just west of Penzance takes you down a hidden valley to Lamorna
Cove. This is tropical Cornwall: occasional palms, turquoise sea
and a clarity of light that's been the draw of many an artist.
Nearby beaches are hard to beat anywhere in Europe. Thank goodness
you can now stay somewhere pukka to enjoy this beautiful corner of
Britain.
Calling The Cove a boutique hotel rings hollow. Yes, there's a
restaurant serving fresh seafood, small spa and a well heated
outdoor pool with views down to the bay. It has 15 rooms
- clean-lined and contemporary in design: wooden floors, touch
lighting, mirrored furnishing and most have views down the valley.
But what sets this apart are well kitted kitchens and living rooms
that give you the best of both worlds: staying at a hotel but also
having the space and flexibility of your own apartment. On arrival
your room is stocked with all the essentials. In the morning, hot
croissants are delivered to your door. Arrive and leave to the
sound of the crows nesting in nearby trees - as if to ward off the
curious and to keep this treasure secret.
Reviewed by Aidan Forestier-Walker
Last updated
01 August 2010
Highs
- Stylish apartment-style rooms designed to a very high standard
- Unspoilt coastal setting with beautiful views down to rugged Lamorna Cove
- Swimming in the heated outdoor pool in the early morning sun - it felt like we were in the Med or Caribbean
- Proximity to fabulous beaches including Sennen (great surf) and Porthcurno (fine sand, turquoise water and the Minack Theatre)
- The youthful staff are excellent - charming, friendly and helpful
- Family-friendly (flexible dining options, sofa beds in all but one room, babysitting and listening by arrangement)
Lows
- It's remote and a bit of a trek to get to (you're almost at Land's End, at least 5 hours drive from London, 3hrs from Bristol), but it's definitely worth it
- If you want to stay somewhere child free this may not be the place for you
- Roads in these parts are narrow and windy so hone up on your driving skills
