The recent heatwave is a glorious reminder of what it is to holiday at home in the UK, and few places are as inspiring in the sunshine, as Cornwall.

Home to some of the most picturesque landscapes and rugged coastlines in the country, Cornwall is peppered with dramatic beaches, exquisite wildlife, chocolate box villages, and historic castles and monuments.

From the Eden Project to the South West Coast Path which traverses through Cornwall, the area is a breathtaking place to relax or go on a few sporting adventures, whether on your own, with your partner, friends or the whole family.

For spa lovers it also holds special significance as the home of of Made for Life Organics - the exquisitely beautiful product line by Amanda Barlow.

On the water

For guests to the area, it is very much about enjoying the beautiful landscape and everything it has to offer. As with anywhere on the coast, getting out onto the water is a magical experience. Sea safaris in Newquay exploring the local reefs and wrecks; snorkelling at Looe Beach, coasteering, surfing or sailing.

Tintagel Castle

On the beach

Unsurprisingly, the region is blessed with many a beautiful beach - plenty of which welcome dogs, so if you’re travelling with a four-legged friend then there’s lots of space for them to enjoy their holiday too! Port Isaac Beach in the postcard perfect village of the same name, has of course found fame as the home of Doc Martin, while others are more remote and offer a magical chance to observe the wildlife.

On rainy days

On rainy days there is also plenty to keep you entertained. The Charlestown Shipwreck and Heritage Centre near St Austell offers history and education, while the Polperro Model Village and Land of Legend is two attractions in one. The village is, quite literally, the coastal town in miniature and has been around for more than 60 years, surviving both fire and floods - so don’t underestimate the strength of these little guys. Meanwhile, Land of Legend is your chance to explore Cornish folklore, derived from tales of pirates and smugglers who thrived in and around Cornwall from the early modern period through to the 19th century.

Port Isaac

On conservation

With wildlife and conservation playing such a big part of life in Cornwall and its local produce, the National Lobster Hatchery is also worth a visit. Based in Padstow, the charity helps to make lobster sustainable in the UK, as the species alone is worth an estimated £30m a year. Both the Scandinavian and Mediterranean stocks have completely collapsed, so the hatchery aims to ensure global food security for future generations by facilitating the survival rate of eggs in the wild.

On history

Meanwhile, back on dry land so many of the areas come with a history; the Lost Gardens of Heligan, the catalogue of National Trust properties and Henry VIII’s fine coastal fortresses, Pendennis Castle, which has protected Cornwall against invasion since the Tudor period. The area is also steeped in myth and magic. In the village of Boscastle you will find the Museum of Witchcraft, and few can fail to be bowled over by Tintagel Castle with its inspiring links to the legend of King Arthur.

Where to stay…

For families: Bedruthan Hotel and Spa

Close to the beach, Bedruthan Hotel and Spa is a family friendly hotel but with all the luxuries for mum and dad to enjoy quality time as well. Right by the beach and close to plenty of outdoor activities such as surfing, diving, or wild swimming in the hidden lagoon, it also offers interconnecting rooms and villa accommodation.

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For friends: Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa

Located right above Fistral Beach itself, which is a brilliant place to surf, Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa is a modern hotel that’s perfect for groups of friends. Light and airy, and with a restaurant that takes in nothing but sea, it’s relaxed and welcoming. For something a little different on your spa break, why not opt for a package that includes Quicksilver surfing lessons or cocktail making?

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For couples: The Headland Hotel

Once where Jack Nicholson would send loving bouquets to Anjelica Houston as she filmed The Witches, The Headland Hotel is a dramatically beautiful red brick hotel perched on a clifftop and with the most extraordinary views. The garden blends into the beach and in the spa it is understated beach chic for total relaxation.

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