10 Unique Cornwall Stays from Clifftop Cottages to Converted Barns
- UK Hidden Gems
- Sep 23
- 7 min read
Cornwall is one of the UK’s most beloved destinations, a county where rugged coastlines meet soft sandy bays and time seems to slow down.
While many travellers arrive for the beaches and surf, a holiday here is made even more special when you choose somewhere truly unique to stay. Beyond the usual hotels and holiday parks, Cornwall hides a treasure trove of extraordinary places that turn accommodation into part of the adventure.
From cottages perched on dramatic cliff edges to shepherd’s huts with stargazing hot tubs, these stays offer not just comfort but unforgettable memories.
Imagine sipping your morning tea while looking out over turquoise seas, or tucking yourself into a cosy barn conversion after a long day of walking the coastal path.
Each property carries its own story and character, making it more than just a base for exploring. This curated list of ten real stays gives you both inspiration and booking details, so you can transform your next trip into a holiday to remember.
Perched high above Portloe harbour, this two-bedroom cottage clings to the clifftop with wide terraces that look straight out to sea.
The Atlantic stretches endlessly in front, with the salty air carrying the sound of gulls and waves. Inside, pale walls and rustic wooden beams combine with soft furnishings to create a welcoming retreat.
Mornings here begin with coffee on the terrace, where fishing boats chug quietly below. The harbour feels timeless, with stone cottages clustered around narrow lanes.
Guests often spend afternoons exploring the South West Coast Path before returning for sunset over the water.
Evenings are magical, as the cottage lights glow warmly against the night sky. The mix of modern touches and historic charm makes this property both practical and atmospheric.
Whether storm-watching in winter or sunbathing in summer, every stay feels memorable. It is a true Cornish escape with the sea at your doorstep.
Overlooking Porthleven beach, this reverse-level cottage is designed to make the most of spectacular sea views.
The living space is upstairs, with large windows opening onto the horizon. The style is light and airy, decorated in coastal blues and whites that reflect the surroundings.
Guests wake to the sound of waves rolling across the beach, just steps from the front door. Porthleven itself is a vibrant harbour town known for its food scene and lively atmosphere.
From the cottage, you can explore both the sandy beach and the harbour within minutes.
Evenings are best spent watching the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky orange and pink.
The cottage offers comfort while still feeling connected to the drama of the sea. With two bedrooms, it suits both couples and families looking for a seaside base. It perfectly combines modern living with timeless coastal charm.
Coaches Rest is a five-star barn conversion where rustic beams meet modern luxury. Set in quiet countryside near Truro, it has been carefully restored to combine history with comfort. Spacious interiors make it an excellent choice for larger groups.
The kitchen and dining area encourage shared meals, while the lounge invites relaxation around a glowing fire.
Outside, guests can enjoy views across rolling fields and private outdoor seating. It feels peaceful, yet Truro’s cathedral city is only a short drive away.
Bedrooms are designed for rest, with crisp linens and thoughtful details. Original stonework and timber beams remind visitors of the barn’s past, while underfloor heating ensures comfort.
It is the kind of place where memories are made, whether celebrating with family or simply escaping into the countryside. Coaches Rest is as practical as it is beautiful.
Nestled deep in the Cornish countryside, the Treganoon Round Barn offers a truly quirky place to stay.
Its circular design gives it a distinctive character, while the stone walls and timber beams hint at centuries of history. The barn sits among rolling fields, making it feel like a secluded rural retreat.
Inside, the barn has been carefully modernised without losing its rustic charm. Guests find spacious rooms that flow around the circular structure, creating an unusual but comfortable layout. Light pours through large windows, bringing the countryside into every corner.
Evenings are best spent relaxing with family, as the barn can sleep up to six guests with ease. The quiet setting encourages slow mornings, with birdsong greeting you as you step outside.
Pet-friendly and welcoming, it suits both families and groups. The Round Barn is not just a place to stay but an experience of Cornwall’s rural heart.
Perched in a private meadow, this boutique shepherd’s hut redefines rustic living. It may be small, but every inch is beautifully designed, from the snug bed to the stylish wood burner. Outside, a private hot tub offers views of the surrounding countryside.
Days here are unhurried, beginning with breakfast in the meadow and followed by walks along quiet country lanes.
Guests often spend afternoons exploring Launceston’s historic castle before retreating to the hut. The peaceful setting makes it feel like a hidden sanctuary.
Evenings are best spent under the stars, soaking in the hot tub with only the sounds of nature around you.
The interiors, though compact, are cleverly fitted to feel luxurious. Couples especially enjoy the privacy and romance of the setting. It is an escape that combines simplicity with indulgence.
Set on the edge of Bodmin Moor, the Elsa Cabin is an off-grid retreat designed for switching off from daily life.
Built from timber with large windows, it opens directly onto views of wild moorland. Without Wi-Fi or distractions, guests are encouraged to slow down and reconnect.
Days are spent walking the moor, where wild ponies graze and granite tors rise above the landscape.
Back at the cabin, evenings can be spent cooking on the stove and enjoying board games by lamplight. The outdoor firepit and hot tub make nights under the stars unforgettable.
The cabin’s simplicity is its strength, offering comfort without excess. Guests wake to silence broken only by birdsong and the rustle of wind.
Every stay here feels like a reset, a chance to breathe deeply and let the pace of nature take over. It is a retreat for the mind as much as the body.
Near the sweeping sands of Gwithian, Lightkeepers is a luxury barn conversion that feels both coastal and contemporary.
It offers indulgent extras like a swimming pool, hot tub, and games room, making it perfect for families or groups. Its design combines rustic features with clean modern lines.
Days here often begin with a walk along the beach, where surfers ride the waves and dogs bound through the shallows.
The property is just minutes from St Ives, with its galleries and bustling harbour. After exploring, guests return to a home designed for both fun and relaxation.
Evenings can be spent cooking in the spacious kitchen, playing games, or soaking in the hot tub under the stars.
Every detail feels carefully chosen, from soft linens to stylish décor. The barn brings together comfort, luxury, and location in one memorable package. It is a stay that lingers long after the holiday ends.
Situated near Trevarrian on Cornwall’s north coast, Lighthouse Cottage offers a coastal escape full of character.
Though not an active lighthouse, it carries the maritime spirit with sea views and a nautical theme. The property is a short distance from Mawgan Porth and Watergate Bay.
Inside, guests find a blend of comfort and charm, with décor inspired by the sea. The cottage has a welcoming kitchen and cosy living spaces perfect for families or couples.
Outside, the garden catches sea breezes and provides a spot to enjoy sunny afternoons.
Its location makes it easy to access both lively Newquay and quieter coastal paths. Guests often spend mornings on the beach and afternoons exploring local villages.
Evenings at the cottage are peaceful, with the sound of waves drifting across the landscape. It offers a classic Cornish stay with a maritime twist.
Tucked into a quiet corner near Penzance, this shepherd’s hut is small but full of charm.
Painted in soft tones, it fits perfectly into its garden setting. Guests love the balance of rustic style and modern comfort.
Mornings begin with birdsong and a short drive to nearby beaches. Penzance offers art galleries, shops, and boat trips to the Isles of Scilly. The hut’s central location makes it a handy base for exploring west Cornwall.
Evenings are often spent around the garden firepit or relaxing inside with a book. The snug bed, kitchenette, and heating make the space cosy year-round.
It feels private while still being close to amenities. For couples, it is a romantic and affordable retreat.
Sally Port Cottage is a two-bedroom retreat offering comfort and character in a tranquil Cornish setting.
With its stone walls and thoughtful décor, it feels like a traditional home with modern convenience. The cottage is popular with couples and small families seeking quiet holidays.
Inside, guests find a well-equipped kitchen, cosy lounge, and bedrooms with crisp linens.
The interiors are light and welcoming, with a sense of care in every detail. Outside, a private garden provides a sunny spot for morning tea.
The location allows easy access to Cornwall’s beaches and countryside. Days can be spent exploring nearby towns or walking along coastal paths. Evenings at the cottage are peaceful, with the gentle sounds of nature as a backdrop. It offers a true taste of Cornish life in comfort.
Cornwall offers more than sandy beaches and surf spots; it provides places to stay that shape the very heart of your holiday.
From clifftop cottages gazing out across the Atlantic to rustic shepherd’s huts with starlit hot tubs, these ten properties prove that accommodation can be as memorable as the destination itself.
Each booking link included here takes you straight to real stays, so you can choose your next retreat with ease and confidence.
Whether you dream of storm-watching from a lighthouse cottage, gathering family in a converted barn, or switching off completely in an off-grid cabin, Cornwall has something for every traveller.
These homes are filled with character and offer the chance to experience the county in a deeply personal way. By picking a stay that reflects your style, you do more than just visit Cornwall, you become part of its story.
Ready to book your next Cornish adventure? Explore the links above, choose your favourite, and let Cornwall’s coastlines, moors, and harbours welcome you.
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