The gateway to the Seven Bays: a St Merryn guide

Seven Bays for seven days

Home to dream-like beaches, fabulous food and natural beauty by the bucketful, the expansive coast of North Cornwall has much to offer. If you’re looking for somewhere that houses all these wonders in abundance, look no further than St Merryn. Having retained much of its original charm, the village's newest additions have blended seamlessly, making it an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in Cornish life.

What's more, our now dog-friendly property Fair Skies is perfectly placed to explore the nearby wine bars, beaches, restaurants and pubs. Read on for recommendations on how to spend the week in St Merryn and the Seven Bays...

Explore the South West Coast Path

Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll to the nearest sandy spot or you’re keen to explore further afield, the South West Coast Path has you covered. With the Seven Bays on your doorstep, head to the epicentre of St Merryn village and set off in your chosen direction, in search of calming waters that would make even the South of France jealous. 
 

Book in for a spa treatment at The Pig
 

© The Pig via Instagram

For those looking to rest weary limbs, take a break from rambling across winding foot paths with a trip to the Potting Shed Treatment rooms at The Pig. Located two miles outside of St Merryn, wander through blooming kitchen gardens to indulge in a treat for all the senses. Kick back with an ocean essence body wrap, inspired by North Cornwall’s natural beauty, or wash away your worries with a full body peppermint sugar scrub. 
 

Sample sumptuous small plates at Duchy Grub
 

© Duchy Grub via Instagram

A feast for all the senses, this independent restaurant located on the outskirts of St Merryn is one for the seafood-lovers. Using wild ingredients foraged from across the Seven Bays, chefs use innovative and sustainable techniques to ensure each dish is a celebration of locally sourced produce. Cornish bluefin tuna paired with a side of garlic basil buttered scallops promises to leave you hungry for your next visit. 
 

Romantic wine nights from Rafferty’s 
 

If you’re looking for somewhere peaceful to spend your evening, easy lingering over a bottle of Sauvignon is best enjoyed from this popular wine bar. Pair Porthilly oysters with a house vintage and toast to a pleasant stay in the heart of the Seven Bays. Still peckish after all that walking? Round off the evening with a board of popular Cornish cheeses and a selection of liqueur coffees.

Monday – Treyarnon Bay
 

A north-west facing beach surrounded by steep cliffs and pretty grass topped dunes, Treyarnon Bay is perfect for those looking to indulge in a spot of wild swimming or test out their newest surfing gear. Explore steely blue natural pools with little ones in tow before venturing across the headland to get a better view of the waters below. No beach day would be complete without a trip to the shops for a traditional clotted cream ice cream before sunset. Discover our homes in Treyarnon.
 

Tuesday – Constantine Bay
 

Located next door to Treyarnon, the soft pale sands of Constantine Bay carry a reputation as one of the best surfing beaches in North Cornwall. Backed by a wall of sand dunes and home to a network of rock pools, transport yourself to faraway lands as you cast your eye towards Trevose Head. Despite its popularity, strong rip currents and a hidden reef make this west-facing beach unsuitable for swimmers. Fall in love with our Constantine Bay escapes.
 

Wednesday – Booby’s Bay
 

© Andrew Foster via Flickr (left)

A hidden gem accessible during low tide, this sister bay takes its distinctive name from resident birdlife.  A wealth of rock pools span the length of the beach, where mussels, crabs and smaller fish spend their days while sandy inlets make for a great secluded sunbathing spot. Despite being joined to Constantine, this beach has its own glowing personality guaranteed to go down a treat with avid surfers and castle building enthusiasts. 
 

Thursday – Mother Ivey’s Bay
 

© Mike Dales via Flickr (left) and Alan Foster via Flickr (right)
 

Cushioned by the Merope rocks and Padstow Lifeboat Station, the still waters of Mother Ivey’s are best suited to paddleboarders and swimmers. Hugged by a generous wall of rocks and nestled away from civilization, take the coast path and enjoy the quieter side of Cornwall’s beach life from this privately owned bay. 
 

Friday – Harlyn Bay
 

Family-friendly and packed with foodie outlets, this popular patch is a great all-rounder. Lying a mile away from St Merryn, this expansive horseshoe shaped beach benefits from smaller swells that are perfect for beginners and keen swimmers. Paddle out to hidden coves to take in all its beauty from the water before settling down for a well deserved cream tea. Plan your next holiday to Harlyn Bay.

Saturday – Trevone Bay
 

Take the 30 minute walk across the South West Coast Path to feast on local wonders from Trevone Bay. Home to an 80 foot deep round hole and one of Cornwall’s largest tidal pools, this one is for the nature enthusiast. Having been named a Site of Special Scientific Interest, take to the land and sea to admire its inhabitants before setting off towards the neighboring town of Padstow. Explore our properties in Trevone.

Sunday – Porthcothan Bay 
 

Perfectly positioned between St Merryn and Newquay, this National Trust owned spot boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna. With a tearoom located nearby, partake in a popular Cornish pastime after soaking up the rays from the comfort of Porthcothan’s peaceful shores. Discover our luxury homes nearby.
 

Places to stay nearby
 

For those looking to explore this traditional coastal village and the surrounding area, find yourself in the heart of all that awaits with a stay at Fair Skies. Hugged by the Seven Bays and positioned between a mélange of fields, this dog-friendly hideout is new for 2023 and promises a comfortable base for walking holidays. Get in touch with our team to plan your stay and take advantage of our in-house concierge service - yours from the moment you book.
 

Image credits: © The Pig via Instagram | © Duchy Grub via Instagram | © Andrew Foster via Flickr | © Mike Dales via Flickr | Alan Foster via Flickr | All other images are our own.