Boatman's Steps

This surprisingly spacious cottage is steeped in the character of its maritime past and thoughtfully renovated with plenty of bonus features for the ideal Cornish holiday. Set in the heart of Polruan, a friendly and tranquil ancient mariners’ village known for its artistic and literary connections and working boat yard, it is built on a steep hill, with colourful houses sheltering on the leeward side of a small peninsula, with the estuary as its focus.

The stylish living room overlooks the harbour and offers comfortable seating for six with a knockout view, a cosy woodburning fire for snug evenings in and board games and puzzles to keep you entertained. You’ll imagine smugglers, pirates and battleships, once visitors to this historic harbour, while watching today’s less fearsome boating activities from your chair or even your bed.

The three fresh and spacious bedrooms offer a choice of super-king size or king size beds which can be split into twin beds for convenience. They provide plenty of storage, sumptuous bedding and panoramic river views from two of the rooms. Listen to waves breaking on the beach below your window at night and catch the sunset from your waterside perch.

Collect breakfast supplies or coffee from the shops and cafes after your early morning swim, just a stone’s throw from your doorstep and cook up a storm in your modern kitchen diner which boasts a Zanussi double oven and induction hob, double fridge freezer, wine fridge, dishwasher and microwave. Enjoy the fruits of your labour at the chic eight-seater dining table. A fresh white family bathroom plus a modern shower room ensure no queueing for your morning bathing.

Outside you’ll find a decked yard with an extendable table plus a further decked terrace with a comfy sofa, outside lighting and fabulous views over the harbour. The hybrid BBQ provides the perfect opportunity to dine alfresco while watching the boats.

With nearby walks along the coastal paths to sandy bays and hidden creeks, and with two excellent pubs on your doorstep, you won’t need to venture much further. If you feel like a change then take a quick trip on the ferry across the estuary to the buzzy town of Fowey where you can have lunch or supper at one of the many eateries or wander around shops and galleries. Take a longer boat trip to the little harbours of Polperro and Mevagissey, or head inland to the Eden Project.