Self catering holidays in Cornwall

Cornwall is the holiday county in the far south west of Cornwall. This is where a large number of Brits go for their annual holiday because of the beaches, secluded coves, gardens to visit and the large number of holiday cottages and holiday parks with swimming pools. The weather is generally kinder in the south west and it is the nearest that Britain has to a Riviera.

One of the remarkable things that people notice around the coast and waterways of Cornwall is the great number of yachts that are moored there. It reminds us that Britain is a sea going nation and sailing a popular hobby.  Rock on the west coast of Cornwall is one town where life revolves around sailing. the majority of houses in Rock are holiday homes specifically for yacht owners. Some are rented out for holidays. Across the river from Rock is the charming town of Padstow which owes some of its fame to Rick Stein and his restaurants. It is a good town for holidaymakers to visit, for meals out and walks along the beach.

Seaside holidays are the main reason why a high percentage of the British population heads for Cornwall. The Atlantic coast is best for surfing and an never ending stream of surfers take to their boards in an attempt to ride the waves. Go to the long beaches at Newquay, Polzeath or the tiny but charming St Agnes to see a passion for surfing. There are just so many stunning small seaside towns on Cornwall's coast, each with their own character. Some such as Polperro, a former fishing village are commercial and provide entertainment for streams of tourists. There are also small unpoilt villages along the coast. Cadgwith in the Lizard, near the most southern tip of Cornwall is one of the loveliest picture book villages in Cornwall. There is a collection of thatched cottages, a small live fishing fleet and harbour, a restaurant and pub. Artists seem to be almost permanently in residence.

Art and painting are very strong in Cornwall. St Ives on the Atlantic coast has a branch of the Tate Modern Gallery. Visitors cannot fail to be impressed by the number of art galleries and arts and crafts shops in the county.  It is an excellent destination to go shopping for art, especially if you would like marine or nautical themes.

The cliffs of Land's End and the iconic landmark are another popular place to visit. The seascapes are lovely and the southern tip of Cornwall is blessed with a multitude of wild flowers that reward every passerby.

A self catering holiday in Cornwall is highly recommended at any time from March (for the spring flowers) to the end of September. May until the end of August are the best months for beach holidays in Cornwall.  Take a look at some of the holiday cottages and rural retreats listed below to find that good quality special self catering accommodation to rent for a break in Cornwall.