Luxury holiday homes on the South West Coast Path

Lace up your walking boots and uncover the beauty of Devon and Cornwall

For some, walking the South West Coast Path is among their bucket list goals and for others it's their favourite holiday hobby. Stretching the length and breadth of Cornwall and Devon, before heading into Somerset, it's easy to dip in and out of the 630-mile-long trail as you wish.

Not only is it a great opportunity to get your steps in, but it also provides an incredible opportunity to see this part of the world. From wildlife-watching to hidden pub lunching, a walk along the coast path is something to truly savour. Many of our properties sit within easy reach of the South West Coast Path, with many of their garden gates opening straight onto the trail itself.

So, if you’re looking for place to stay when exploring the coastal path, we have luxury holiday homes suited for just that. Awake every day to sparkling sea views, plan your route over al fresco breakfasts and hang your keys up for a week without your car…

Brynia in Daymer Bay, Cornwall

Stretch of coastline: Polzeath, Port Quin, Port Isaac (North), Padstow, Stepper Point and Trevone (West).

Walkers will love: sea view living and hot tub dips

Enjoying incredible estuary views over Daymer Bay, Brynia is an incredible coastal home situated a moment’s walk from a coveted stretch of the coast path. From the bottom of the huge grassy garden, a gate leads you onto a path which takes you over to Rock in one direction and Polzeath in the other. Longer routes can be had by hopping on the water taxi over to Padstow, where you can rejoin the trail over to Stepper Point and Trevone too.

Meanwhile, meandering through Polzeath and over to The Rumps, you can rejoice in seal-watching from the very top of the cliffs before finding wild swimming spots at nearby Port Quin. The Atlantic also provides an excellent sea-view lunch stop en route, with stone-baked pizzas and local ales on the menu.

Once back inside the comfort of Brynia, ease aching limbs in the estuary-view hot tub or stoke the fire as rounds of bridge get underway in the reading room. Sleeping up to 12 guests, round up the whole family for a week spent exploring new routes and uncovering hidden beaches from your doorstep.

Compass Point in Coverack, Cornwall

Stretch of coastline: Kennack Sands, Cadgwith and The Lizard.

Walkers will love: it's dog-friendly with there's a sunken sea view hot tub for aching limbs 

Sitting on the edge of the shore, many stumble upon Compass Point when walking the South West Coast Path from Lowland Point. Hidden behind a wood-clad façade, the wonders of Compass Point reveal themselves as soon as you walk in with never-ending ocean views stretching out across the bay. Outside, you’ll discover a sunken hot tub, a suntrap terrace and a tiki hut – perfect for those laid back evenings when the walking boots come off and the drinks are poured.

From its position on the west coast of Cornwall, Compass Point allows you to explore the stretch of the trail over to Lizard in one direction and Helford in the other. Easier trails include Kennack Sands and Cadgwith, with both revealing dog-friendly beaches and historical landmarks along the way too.

There’s also plenty to keep you busy while holidaying in Coverack, with our favourite recommendations including the Terence Coventry Sculpture Park, Loft's mackerel sandwiches and lessons with Coverack’s Windsurfing Centre. Kynance Cove is also close by, so you could park at Cadgwith to walk the stretch of coast path over the Lizard, stopping at Ann’s Pasties for lunch on the way – as is tradition.

Beachfront in Bigbury-on-Sea, Devon

Stretch of coastline: South Milton, Hope Cove and Soar Mill.

Walkers will love: taking their dogs onto the beach first thing in the morning before pouring fresh coffees on the decked terrace 

Aptly named, Beachfront sits seconds from Bigbury’s soft sands and glistening waters. Set over one level and sleeping up to 10 guests, it's loved for its family-friendly vibe and beachy interiors. Expansive bi-fold doors open up onto the terrace where ocean views promise to aid relaxation and tempt you out for al fresco lunches during the warmer months.

Situated amongst golden sands and the River Avon, Bigbury-on-Sea provides a unique destination for walkers in that you need to board a boat to reach the length of coast path over to Bantham and South Milton. This section is also fairly easy-going, taking you past Thurlestone Golf Course and around to Hope Cove too.

The ferry runs from Easter to September, so it's perfect for those longer days spent exploring new places. Stopping in Hope Cove, The Lobster Pot is where you’ll find fresh seafood lunches with an incredible sea view backdrop to match. Meanwhile, the Hope & Anchor pub is perfect for a pitstop pint and round of cards, before continuing along the route in search of Salcombe a little over eight miles away.

The opposite direction takes you over tiny beaches nestled along the South Hams coastline. Take binoculars, swim gear and crab sandwiches for your walk over and relish a slower day soaking up the sunshine and the incredible scenery that surrounds Beachfront.

Sea House in Porth, Cornwall

Stretch of coastline: Watergate Bay, Mawgan Porth, Porthcothan (North), Fistral, Crantock and Holywell (West).

Walkers will love: returning each day to a heated indoor pool before sinking into one of the sea-view beds

Perched on the edge of Porth Beach, Sea House is striking in design and impressive in size. Downstairs, you’ll find a heated indoor swimming pool where views over the incoming tides are yours to savour. Surfers will relish Sea House’s proximity to the beach, while the decked terrace provides an idyllic spot for blue sky lunches and afternoons spent reading and relaxing.

Stepping out the front door, you’ll join the South West Coast Path which takes you over to Porth Island and Watergate Bay in one direction and Newquay in the other. Renowned for its surfing scene and incredible seascapes, this section of the coast path is simply stunning. Porth Island provides a wonderful opportunity to spot choughs and when the wind whips up, you’ll notice a natural blowhole amongst the rugged rock formations.

Continue along the coast path past Watergate Bay and over to Mawgan Porth, to total complete another five miles of the route. Or stretch it out even further and tick off Bedruthan Steps from your ‘to-see’ list, pausing for jam-first scones at the famous Carnewas Tea Room.

Alternatively, the route over to Fistral weaves past golden beaches, swimming spots and harbourside cafés. Adjust your route each day, depending on your walking goals with longer trails taking you all the way over to Crantock and Holywell too. We recommend making a pit stop at Newquay Harbour during your walk, where pop-up bars and restaurants promise to refuel you along the way. A little further along, Jam Jar Kitchen is where you’ll find delicious stone-baked pizza, Moomaid ice cream and baked pastries – perfect for those summertime suppers on the beach. 

Ferryside in Rock, Cornwall

Stretch of coastline: Daymer Bay, Polzeath, Port Quin (North), Padstow, Stepper Point and Trevone (West).

Walkers will love: the underground games room for post-walk tournaments and the vitality pool for evening soaks

An incredible estuary-view home in the heart of Rock, Ferryside is a coveted and luxurious home suited to those wishing to explore the north coast. True to its name, moored yachts can be seen bobbing in the harbour from nearly every room at Ferryside. Aside from the ‘underground’ games room which boasts a hidden bar, pool table and cinema screen. Upstairs, the living space opens up onto the decked terrace where you’ll find a vitality pool and elevated views stretching across to Padstow.

The South West Coast Path pauses in Rock and resumes again on the other side of the river in Padstow, so it's easy to cover a fair distance of the trail while staying at Ferryside. The route over to Daymer Bay and Polzeath is easygoing and suitable for walkers, runners or buggy users. Cool off tired toes in the gentle shallows of Daymer before finding Polzeath within a couple of miles. From Polzeath, you can continue climbing the coast path as it winds over Pentire Point and The Rumps. If a shorter distance is more desirable, stop by Flo’s Kitchen for toasted sandwiches and barista-made coffees before finding a spot on the sand for lunch in the sun.

Spot sea thrift blooms as you make your way back along the coast path. If the tide is out, Greenaway Beach reveals endless rock pools big enough for swimming and back in Rock, there are opportunities for stand-up paddleboarding, sailing and windsurfing. Food and drink wise, Rock is also home to The Mariners and The Dining Room, both of which come highly recommend by our team for their exquisite menus and wine lists.

For more walking inspiration around Rock, read our guide to dog-friendly routes in and around the Camel Estuary.

The Yellow Cottage in Trebarwith Strand, Cornwall

Stretch of coastline: Tintagel, Bossiney and Boscastle.

Walkers will love: waking up to ocean views everyday with the decked terrace providing the perfect viewpoint over the coast path itself

Nestled amongst rugged clifftops and ancient monuments, Trebarwith Strand is a lesser-known corner of the coast not too far away from Tintagel and Boscastle. An expanse of beach reveals itself at low tide, while high tide swallows up the sand leaving a stunning sparkling seascape. Sitting immediately above the water’s edge is The Yellow Cottage. A New England-style beach house, it sleeps nine guests and enjoys timeless views over the incoming tides.

From its position on the headland, you can watch as walkers take to the coast path directly in front of the terrace. Taking you past rugged clifftops, stacked rock formations and ancient alleyways, this section of the route is on the more strenuous side. You’ll reach Tintagel Castle within an hour, covering two miles of the trail with Boscastle another five miles away. Both villages make beautiful stop-offs during your walk due to their legendary connections with King Arthur.

Port Gaverne and Port Isaac can also be reached fairly easily from The Yellow Cottage. Sitting in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, expect dramatic views, fishing ports and cob walls. There are also great opportunities for bird watching on this stretch, with peregrines, guillemots and kittiwakes making themselves at home here. Arriving into Port Gaverne first, the sparkling shores invite a quick dip while Cornish Rock Tors offer stand-up paddleboarding and kayak hire. Climbing the hill over into Port Isaac, you’ll be greeted by narrow alleyways, colourful harbourside homes and bobbing boats in the harbour. There are plenty of dining options here too, with Fee’s among our favourites for hot coffees and slices of cake.

Returning to Trebarwith Strand every evening, head to the Port William Inn for supper in the sunshine. Perched beside the beach, the pub becomes the first port of call for celebratory drinks and hearty meals. Keep it classic with fish and chips or opt for a portion of crab-topped fries – the ultimate seaside treat.  

Salt Spray in Porthleven, Cornwall

Stretch of coastline: Rinsey, Praa Sands, Prussia Cove (West), Gunwalloe, Poldhu and Mullion (South).

Walkers will love: clinking icy drinks on the sea view balcony once golden hour descends on the horizon

A new addition to our portfolio, Salt Spray is one for lovers of the coast with the beach mere moments away. With the South West Coast Path sitting directly in front of the sea-view terrace, this property is arguably our closest to the trail. Awake every day to sparkling ocean vistas before joining everyone upstairs in the open plan social space, where the sound of crashing waves provides the perfect holiday soundtrack.

Walking out the door, you can follow the path into Porthleven where a plethora of restaurants, pubs and cafés can be found dotted around the harbour’s edge. Meanwhile, the coves of Nichols, Rinsey and Praa await further along the coast and provide ample opportunities for swimming, sunbathing and picnicking.

Climbing the clifftops over to Loe Bar in the opposite direction, the South West Coast Path takes walkers towards Gunwalloe, Poldhu and Mullion. As this stretch sits along the Lizard Peninsula, you’ll be greeted by wild landscapes, rare sea flowers and hidden engine houses. In the winter months, you may also be lucky enough to spot seals bobbing their head above water in the shores below. In the summer, they’re more likely to be spotted sunning themselves over on the north coast – but it's always worth keeping an eye out as you clock in the miles.

Samphire in Trevone, Cornwall

Stretch of coastline: Harlyn, Mother Ivy’s Bay, Constantine Bay (West), Stepper Point, Padstow and Rock (East).

Walkers will love: its spacious garden and sea-view master bedroom

Loved for its natural tidal pool, beachside café and neighbouring Seven Bays, Trevone is up there with our most popular holiday destinations in Cornwall. Available to book alongside The Quarter Deck, Samphire is a family-friendly beach house radiating a timeless charm. Its large grassy garden is perfect for playing children and sunbathing dogs, while the spacious bedrooms provide comfortable sanctuaries after days spent exploring nearby walking trails and tours.

With your walking boots on and picnic bags at the ready, the lane from your front door delivers you straight onto the coast path. Choose a different distance every day of your holiday, with shorter routes taking you over to Harlyn Bay and Mother Ivy’s to the west and Stepper Point and Padstow further along to the east.

If you’re looking to add a few more miles to your daily goal, you can also reach the dog-friendly bays of Rock and Daymer by catching the water taxi from Padstow Harbour. Stop for a drink at Shipwrights as you wait to board the boat or wander around the idyllic streets to pass the time. Once you’re in Rock, the route over to Daymer crosses beautiful dunes and provides sheltered conditions for swimming.

Tamarisks in Hope Cove, Devon

Stretch of coastline: South Milton Sands, Bantham, Bigbury-on-Sea (North), Soar Mill and Salcombe (East).

Walkers will love: preparing stone-baked pizzas in the outdoor kitchen before heading into the underground games room for a movie night

Sitting a stone’s throw from Hope Cove’s dog-friendly sands, Tamarisks soaks up ocean views as far as the eye can see. Occupying an unrivalled position on the South Hams coastline, this home sleeps up to 16 guests and comes complete with an outdoor kitchen, pizza oven and underground games room.

The South West Coast Path makes its way past Tamarisks, so it's easy to join the route and encounter new sights every day of your holiday. When our team stayed at Tamarisks, we took the route over to South Milton Sands for a leisurely Sunday stroll, but you can keep going and find Thurlestone and Bantham a little further along.

With it being on Devon’s south coast, you can expect gentle waters and the occasional yacht sailing past. Following the trail over Soar Mill, you’ll eventually reach Salcombe, tucked in between Batson and Southpool Creek. Arriving into Salcombe, you’ll discover an array of eateries suited to all, with sought-after seafood restaurants and traditional pubs among them.

Find solace on your return to Tamarisks each evening, where sunset suppers provide the perfect elixir to aching limbs. Inside, choose between the two living areas with cosy wood burners or find your sea-view bedroom to settle in for a restful night’s sleep.  

Gwelefan in Porthtowan, Cornwall

Stretch of coastline: Wheal Coates, St Agnes (North), Portreath and Godrevy (West).

Walkers will love: a dose of heat therapy, thanks to the sauna and hot tub

From Gwelefan's position above Porthtowan, you can watch as walkers take to the coast path in both directions. Contemporary coastal interiors make it a wonderful place to relax after days spent exploring and the addition of a sauna and a hot tub adds a touch of spa-like luxury. Plans can be made each day from the sea-view living area, where a route can be mapped from your elevated vantage point above the beach.

Porthtowan itself is home to a beautiful stretch of dog-friendly sand, where at low tide a natural pool can be found for cold water swimmers. Climbing the coast path to the north, you'll encounter one of Cornwall's most stunning stretches of coastline. Taking you past the ancient Wheal Coates' tin mine, the views to your left are truly mesmerising. Before long, you'll descend the path into Chapel Porth Beach - another one of the county's hidden gems. The beach itself is fairly sheltered and you can pick up lunch provisions from the little hut on the edge of the sand. 

A little further along is St Agnes. Not only is this loved for its ancient heritage sites, but it's also great for an afternoon wander. Stop by The Peterville Inn for an early dinner or pick up some additional walking supplies from Finisterre. Heading back along the coast, Portreath can be reached within two hours and is where you'll find a small village dotted by Cornish pubs and soft sands. If a more strenuous route is on the cards, Godrevy is also worth a visit. It's recognisable for its incredible beachscape with a single white lighthouse out at sea.

Avocet in Bigbury-on-Sea, Devon

Stretch of coastline: Bantham, South Milton and Hope Cove.

Walkers will love: sinking into the ocean-view hot tub after suppers on the terrace 

Another one of our stunning Bigbury-on-Sea properties, Avocet provides a heavenly base for families and groups of friends. Sleeping 12 guests, it sits in an elevated position above the village and benefits from an incredible vantage point above the shoreline. There’s a hot tub for those post-walk dips and a large private master suite for putting your feet up at the end of each day.

Bigbury itself is known countrywide for its links to Agatha Christie, with the beautiful Burgh Island sitting just over the sand. You can catch a ride on the unique sea tractor or even visit the art deco hotel which stands proud on the little island. Back on shore, you can join the South West Coast Path and walk the length of the trail over to Bantham. This small waterside village is home to The Sloop Inn – a 14^th century pub promising a warm welcome and delicious food.

After another three miles, Hope Cove provides a picturesque setting for an afternoon on the sand. Find a sunny spot to read a paperback or wander around the chocolate box village to delve into life on the Devonian coast. You can also reach Salcombe within a short drive and you can use the opportunity here to complete another section of the coast path, from East Portlemouth to Dartmouth. Dividing it into shorter trails, there are some stunning sights to be found along this stretch with Strete Gate Beach and Blackpool Sands carved into the coastline.

While in the area, it's also worth a walk over to Wembury Beach. You can begin in Bovisand and follow the route over to Heybrook Bay and Wembury Point. It’s a stunning spot year-round, but dolphins have been known to make an appearance in the bay during the spring and summer months so it’s well worth adding it to your 'to-do' list while holidaying here.

Wishing to escape to the South West for a walking holiday?

Explore our brand-new list of luxury accommodation situated close to walking trails, tours and paths with their very own boot rooms and separate entryways to ensure your return home each day is as comfortable as possible.  

Image credits: all of the images used are our own.