Cornwall is the ideal place for a romantic break, and to help you discover some of the best unique hideaways in Cornwall, I have highlighted eight fabulous places to stay that are perfect for couples.
Choose from quirky holiday getaways that include a sleek airstream, a steam driver’s wagon, a traditional shepherd’s hut and even a fully-restored barge – glamping in Cornwall has never been so much fun!
With a stunning coastline, including some of the best surfing beaches in the world, beautiful countryside, an intriguing history, and fabulous Cornish pubs and restaurants to try out, you can’t help but fall in love with Cornwall’s charm.
This is a sponsored post on behalf of Unique Hideaways who have a portfolio of unique holiday properties in England and Wales.
Map of Cornwall Properties (approximate location)
Unique and Quirky Cornwall Hideaways Ideal for Watersports
Blackberry Jack’s Wagon – Portreath
Sleeps Two
Unique Hideaway Accommodation in a Wagon
Full of character, Blackberry Jack’s Wagon has a story to tell of its own. Once used by Blackberry Jack, this former steam engine driver’s wagon is a unique place to stay in Cornwall.
Couples will love its snug, compact appeal with a comfy double bed, a fold-down table and a television (though reading and enjoying the countryside will probably take up all your time).
A cute outdoor decked space, overlooked only by the neighbour’s donkeys, means you can enjoy a glass of wine in complete seclusion.
A few steps away from the wagon is a cabin where you will find your kitchen, shower room and toilet – and yes, it is a flushing one! If you have bikes or surfboards, you can store them in the cabin.
Book a fabulous couple’s break to Cornwall in Blackberry Jack’s Cabin
In the Area
Porthtowan is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with an award-winning surfing beach on Cornwall’s North Atlantic coast.
For experienced surfers, Porthtowan’s powerful waves and blue-flag beaches are a magnet. And the ‘apres surf’ cafe Blue Bar is said to be the best beach bar in Cornwall.
The Pure Blue Surf Academy offers beginner lessons in Porthtowan for visitors wanting to try surfing in Cornwall. Why not go home with a new skill under your belt?
Some of Cornwall’s most iconic seascapes can also be seen along this coastline, with walks from Porthtowan to St Agnes a popular choice for hikers. Pass by the Unesco site of Wheal Coates and discover the iconic ruins of the Cornish tin mine featured in many images of Cornwall.
Captain Blake’s Retreat – Whitsand Bay
Sleeps Two + your four-legged friend
Unique Hideaway Accommodation on a Clifftop
This dreamy property perched on the cliffside at Whitsand Bay is the ultimate couple’s escape. This area is known as ‘the Forgotten Corner of Cornwall’, and to say Captain Blake’s Retreat is remote may be an understatement.
There is no WIFI (but 4G is available) and no direct vehicle access (a designated parking area is available). Guests need to walk the 700 steps along the cliff path to reach the accommodation, so if you want to ensure you won’t be disturbed, Captain Blake’s Retreat will be a perfect choice!
Once inside the retreat, you will have everything you need, from a fully equipped kitchen to a king-size bed and a wood-burning stove – perfect for any time of the year.
The modern interior, painted in whites and blues, is in keeping with its surroundings, with a nod to Captain Blake, a 17th-century naval commander, in the form of ornaments and trinkets.
Views from this unique clifftop hideaway are breathtaking and the epitome of the Cornish coastline. A telescope allows you to watch sea birds soaring above the azure waters, and the outdoor picnic bench gives you a place to sit and watch the Cornish sunrise and sunset.
Book a fabulous couple’s break to Cornwall in Captain Blake’s Retreat.
In the Area
Cornwall’s coastal path is right on your doorstep for walkers and surfers, with a pathway leading down to Whitsand Bay, one of the best surfing beaches in South Cornwall. On the beach, the Eddystone Cafe has served visitors since the 1960s. Grab a bite to eat or hire surfing equipment and take to the waters.
Head to the quintessential villages of Kingsand and Cawsand and discover winding lanes, pastel-coloured houses, sandy beaches and traditional pubs and restaurants. Don’t forget to try out a Cornish pasty during your stay for an authentic Cornwall experience.
Mount Edgecombe House and Country Park is one of South East Cornwall’s most popular tourist attractions. Its Grade l listed gardens overlooking Plymouth Sound are worth visiting.
History buffs will love the 8-minute ferry crossing to Plymouth in Devon to explore Plymouth’s tourist attractions. Look for the Mayflower steps from where the pilgrims departed for America in the 17th century.
The Cornish Airstream – Looe
Sleeps Two
Unique Hideaway Accommodation in an Airstream with a Hot Tub
For fans of 1930s American retro, this fabulous silver Cornish Airstream will have you jumping for joy. Step inside its shiny, slender form and be wowed at how it has been re-designed for the 21st century. You will love its unique luxury furnishings, a king-size bed, and a fully equipped kitchen, and if that’s not enough, it even has a hot tub!
For alfresco living, you can access a private hot tub – perfect for stargazing with your loved one – and a cute dining table and loungers. If you get chilly, head back inside, light the wood-burning fire and snuggle up with a hot chocolate.
Wake up in the mornings with views across the fields and woodland of the Glynn Valley. Then head to Cornish landmarks such as Bodmin Moor or Padstow (home of Rick Stein’s famous restaurant).
Book a fabulous couple’s break to Cornwall in The Cornish Airstream.
In the Area
Looe is a traditional Cornish fishing village where life centres around the harbour. Its charming narrow streets lead to independent shops, restaurants and coffee bars.
For watersport enthusiasts, Looe’s coves have clear blue waters and sandy beaches. Holidaymakers can find kayak, canoe and paddleboard rentals at Black Rock Beach Hire and Talland Bay Beach Cafe.
Animal lovers may like to visit the Monkey Sanctuary at Looe or try their hand at crabbing or rock pooling in the shallows along the coast.
For a great place to eat, The Sardine Factory in Looe Harbour is the place to try the catch of the day and is highly recommended by the locals.
Anella – Falmouth
Sleeps Two + your four-legged friend
Unique Hideaway Accommodation in a cottage with a Hot Tub
Nestled in acres of the rolling Cornish countryside in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is Anella, a fabulous fairytale cottage for couples. Numerous trails lead from the property (great for dog walking), allowing you to explore the area, and the cottage offers a cosy stay in Cornwall.
Inside the cottage, exposed brick details, bright country styling, wooden floors, and a cosy wood burner will ensure a comfortable stay. When nighttime draws in, re-live your inner child as you climb the ladder to settle into your double bed on the mezzanine floor. Listen for the owls hooting in the distance as you drift off to sleep.
Outside, a private hot tub will be ideal for relaxing after an active day exploring the local area. Enjoy the spa as you sip a glass of bubbles and toast your magical time in Cornwall.
Book a fabulous couple’s break to Cornwall in Anella
In the Area
For a great place to eat, Slice of Cornwall is a hip cafe offering great coffee and catering to vegetarians and vegans. If you fancy breakfast or lunch, it is only a 5-minute stroll from the cottage.
For watersport enthusiasts, Helford River is great for paddleboarding and sailing. Rentals for all types of equipment, including self-drive boats, can be found at Helford River Boats.
The Shipwrights Arms in Helford Passage also offers excellent food in a riverside setting.
Sun worshippers and surfers may like to visit Kynance Cove, one of the world’s most spectacular beaches and a short drive from the cottage. On a sunny day, it is a doppelgänger for the Caribbean, with white sand and turquoise water. Be prepared for a steep 40-minute walk from the car park – but it is so worth the effort.
And no trip to Cornwall would be complete without exploring the Lizard Peninsula, Cornwall’s iconic stretch of coastline famed for shipwrecks and wildlife. You may be lucky and spot a seal, dolphin or even a whale!
Unique and Quirky Hideaways Ideal for Discovering History and Nature
Into the Woods – St Neot
Sleeps Two
Unique Hideaway Accommodation in a Cabin
Leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life behind when you head Into the Woods. This charming cabin in the leafy countryside provides a retreat for couples looking to escape into nature.
The inside of the cabin has been tastefully styled with floral fabrics, wooden floors and copper fittings. The design brings an earthy, vintage/boho vibe to this woodland property. A luxurious king-size bed, ensuite shower, wood-burning fire and cute dining table are perfect for couples.
Outside, a swing seat is a perfect place to chill in the rural environment that cradles the cabin. A BBQ and alfresco seating area allow you to spend quality time together outside. All you have to do is breathe in the Cornish air and relax in this romantic retreat made for two.
Sadly, this property is no longer available for rent on Unique Hideaways.
Further Afield
Into the Woods is ideally located centrally to many of Cornwall’s natural attractions and coastal villages.
Polperro is bursting with characteristic fishing cottages and has an infamous history of smuggling. Wander along its narrow passageways and imagine times when this small harbour was a haven for pirates. Visit Shell Cottage and the Polperro Model Village to learn about Cornwall’s myths and legends.
Fowey (pronounced Foy) is another ancient Cornish village. Discover hidden passageways and old pubs between quirky coffee shops and independent galleries.
Literary lovers should head to Bodmin Moor and visit the Daphne Du Maurier Museum in the Jamaica Inn, Cornwall’s most historic smuggling inn!
Meantime, Poldark fans will enjoy the Georgian fishing port of Charlestown with its longships and filming locations.
Natural attractions nearby include Carnglaze Caverns and Golitha Falls and the Lost Gardens of Heligan, one of the finest gardens in Europe.
Need More Inspiration? Find Your Unique Cornish Hideaway with Sea Views
The Pigsty – St Levan
Sleeps Two + 1 child on a day bed
Unique Hideaway Accommodation in a Converted Barn
Wallow in complete bliss once you have settled in at The Pigsty. The accommodation is light and airy and has been beautifully converted with rustic furnishings, panelled walls and polished floorboards.
A neutral colour palette runs throughout, and local artwork adorns the walls, a nod to the many artists that call West Cornwall their home. After winter walks in the local countryside, coming home to the log burner provides a warm and cosy environment to relax in.
The cute patio area, surrounded by dry-stone walls and fabulous views, is perfect for alfresco dining.
Book a fabulous couple’s break to Cornwall in The Pigsty.
In the Area
Try the traditional 16th-century Cornish pub, The Logan Rock Inn in Treen, for a great place to eat. It offers fantastic food along with an intriguing history. For coffee and delicious jam, cream and scones, head to Apple Tree Cafe in Sennen.
Art enthusiasts will love visiting the numerous art galleries in the surrounding villages and towns, and a trip to the world-famous Minack Theatre is a must. Hewed from the cliffside, this stone theatre holds recitals and plays throughout the year.
Mousehole (pronounced Mowzel) is a historic Cornish fishing village with a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets to wander along.
Discover artist workshops, galleries, independent cafes, and gift shops selling local crafts inspired by the sea. It is such a pretty harbour village that Dylan Thomas once described as ‘the loveliest village in England’.
Visitors can pick up the South West Coastal Path a short drive from the cottage, and walkers will delight routes passing secluded beaches such as Porthchapel, Porthcurno and Pedn Vounder.
The Shepherd’s Hut at Georgia Bridge – St Ives
Sleeps Two
Unique Hideaway Accommodation in a Shepherd’s Hut
Step into a tropical oasis with a stay at this shepherd’s hut near St Ives. If seclusion is what you are after, this comes with bucket loads. Palm trees, planted borders and wildflowers gently encompass this unique Cornish hideaway and invite you to take a closer look at this charming property.
Inside the hand-crafted hut, the decor is beautiful. Muted-coloured panelled walls, white-washed floorboards, and cute accessories give it a modern shabby-chic country vibe. A king-size bed, a fully functioning kitchen and a shower room make this the perfect couple’s bolthole.
On a chilly winter’s evening, the wood burner will leave you feeling warm and cosy while you snuggle up together. During the day, there are sun loungers, a table and chairs and dreamy views across the meadow to enjoy.
Book a fabulous couple’s break to Cornwall in The Shepherd’s Hut at Georgia Bridge.
In the Area
St Ives is one of the best places in Cornwall for a holiday and is a tourist hotspot because there are so many things to do in St Ives.
From sunbathing on glorious beaches, shopping in quirky independent shops and wandering around numerous galleries to dining in traditional and modern pubs and restaurants – there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Nearby is one of Cornwall’s most famous landmarks, the awe-inspiring St Michael’s Mount. Make sure you get your tide times correct, or you may get wet! When the tide is out, you can walk the cobbled footpath on the seabed from the shore to the Mount, but when it is in, the only way across is by boat to St Michael’s Mount.
Around the bay is Penzance; the beaches in Penzance are some of the best beaches in Cornwall. If sea swimming isn’t for you, Jubilee Pool, the UK’s largest seawater lido, may be your style.
Don’t leave without a pint at a pub in Penzance. One of the oldest and most fascinating is The Turks Head, dating back to the 13th century and concealing authentic priest holes and a smugglers’ tunnel behind its walls.
Mistery 2 – Truro
Sleeps Four
Unique Hideaway Accommodation in a Houseboat
Step into a magical quayside setting when you stay aboard Mystery 2, a beautiful barge with two double bedrooms – excellent for two couples.
Expect to find spacious living accommodation inside the hull of this houseboat. Two Bedrooms (cabins), in pastel shades, are set at either end of the barge, giving complete privacy. There is an ensuite to the master and a separate family bathroom, so there’s no queuing for the shower in this unique hideaway.
The central area houses a full kitchen and wood burner for when the evenings get colder. Bijou touches such as hand-crafted doors made from library panels and surfaces recycled from old timbers give the barge an authentic vintage feel.
The outside is very special with flowers and fresh veg growing around the garden. A fire pit, twinkling fairy lights and a sound system give the area a ‘festival vibe’, and direct access to the river allows paddle-boarders and kayakers to spend lazy days on the water.
Book a fabulous couple’s break to Cornwall in Mistery 2
In the Area
Falmouth, home to the world’s third largest natural harbour, is the nearest town to Mystery 2 and has a wealth of restaurants, independent boutiques and activities to enjoy.
Visitors interested in history can discover Pendennis Castle, built by Henry VIII to defend England against invasion. A short ferry ride will take you across the water to the charming village of St Mawes and its fortress.
Nature lovers will find wandering around Trebah Gardens in Helford a lovely way to spend the day. Don’t forget to check out the private beach leading from the gardens down to the Helford River.
Head to Truro Cathedral and be inspired by some of the finest Victorian stained glass in the country. Afterwards, wander along Truro’s narrow cobbled streets and admire its impressive range of stunning Gothic and Georgian architecture.
Wildlife is abundant in Cornwall, and a wildlife-spotting boat trip will get you close to the majestic animals that call the Cornish coastline their home.
Finish your day with a 15-minute stroll to the Royal Oak pub, and enjoy a local Cornish cider while you plan your next adventure in Cornwall.
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Looking for Cornwall Accommodation to book with family and friends? Check out this post: 8 Most Beautiful Holiday Homes in Cornwall for Groups.