The Cove
Lamorna Cove, Near Penzance, Cornwall
Contemporary apartments and a villa cottage: seaside-chic and heated swimming pool 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, a small spa and a heated outdoor
pool with views down to the bay. It has 15 rooms and a
villa cottage, all clean-lined and contemporary in design, with
wooden floors, touch lighting, mirrored furnishing and (in most)
views down the valley. But what sets this apart are the well-kitted
kitchens and living rooms that give you the best of both worlds:
the facilities of a hotel and the space and flexibility of your own
apartment. On arrival your room is stocked with all the essentials
and hot croissants are delivered to your door each morning. 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 a secret.
Reviewed by Aidan Forestier-Walker
Last updated 22 May 2012
Highs
- The stylish apartment-style rooms
- The unspoilt coastal setting has beautiful views down to rugged Lamorna Cove
- Swim in the heated outdoor pool in the early morning sun and you'll feel like you're in the Med or Caribbean
- You're near fabulous beaches, including Sennen (great surf) and Porthcurno (fine sand, turquoise water and the Minack Theatre)
- The youthful staff are charming, friendly and helpful
- It's very family-friendly (flexible dining options, sofa beds in all but one room and organised activities during school holidays)
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 and 3 hours from Bristol), but it's definitely worth it
- If you want to stay somewhere free from children, this may not be the place for you
- Roads in these parts are narrow and windy so hone up on your driving skills
- The restaurant is usually closed during the winter months (reduced rates reflect this)
