The Detail...

Combine history and quirkiness while surrounded by the beautiful Cornwall countryside at Okel Tor Mine. This former copper, lead, and arsenic mine is now a Grade II listed property that houses two separate romantic holiday retreats.

The Count House is the former mine captain’s office and sleeps two guests. This cosy one bedroom cottage is located by the riverside. Dating back 150 years, the building has been renovated for modern living but without losing any of its traditional charm - with its wonky roof and walls. There is a living room with a large comfy sofa bed sitting in front of a log burner and flat screen TV, as well as a dining table and chairs for four people and a compact kitchen area.

The double bedroom is home to a king size bed and en-suite shower room. Enjoy a morning coffee or evening drink sitting on the outdoor decking, with the river bubbling along nearby and the panoramic views beyond.

The Count House shares a barbecue and utility room with a washing machine with the other cottage, The Smithy. This is the former forge and workshop and still maintains its history with a vaulted ceiling and timber panelling. Also sleeping two guests, virginia creeper and grapevine grows across this converted building, which has been updated for the 21st Century. Inside is a living room with a large sofa bed, armchair, log burner, flat screen TV, and dining table for four. There is a separate self-contained kitchen, while the central heating and hot water is supplied by a carbon neutral wood pellet boiler.

The Smithy also has a double bedroom with king size bed and en-suite shower room. Old iron picks sit out on the covered veranda, where those staying can enjoy spectacular views across the valley whatever the weather.

Nearby Calstock is a lovely Cornish gem, with the village boasting narrow streets and colourful cottages. It is just a short walk from Okel Tor Mine and has two dog-friendly pubs, as well as a cafe and art gallery. Located in the Tamar Valley - an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - there are many walks right on the doorstep, through woodland, over rolling hills and along coastal paths.