Beach Retreats, Cornwall – Review

For a UK based self-catering holiday with a difference check out Beach Retreats. They look after fabulous finished properties on the north coast of Cornwall, including stunning apartments in Watergate Bay, I checked them out last weekend to experience truly 21st century beachside living. They are currently promoting their collaboration with a holiday concierge service – the idea is that visitors have their every need and `diva like` whim catered for. I was impressed upon arrival- after a stressful week at work and a late evening flight it was great to discover a fridge full of local Cornish delicacies and a perfectly chilled bottle of English wine!

And as for the apartment: top marks. I stayed in `Waves 19` a two storey penthouse with breath taking sea views .The bay is famous for its sheer size and grandeur with almost three miles of perfect sand at low tide, it makes an beautiful sight to wake up to. The flats are some of Cornwall`s most contemporary destinations with all properties furnished in the latest luxury trappings. From open plan fully fitted kitchens to plush bedrooms, stylish bathrooms, TVs, DVDs, sound systems throughout, under floor heating, hairdryers and tumble dryers- the designers have thought of everything. There is even a selection of books and games for rainy days!

Tempting though it is to stay in and make the most of the fantastic dining facilities it`s worth venturing over the road to Watergate bays award winning restaurants. Fifteen, the Jamie Oliver enterprise, looks out across the sands as does the neighbouring Beach Hut, both play host to masterchef`s John Torode who is a regular visitor. (Surely there can be no better stamp of approval.) With such exceptional views across the bay you`ll find dining at these restaurants a truly memorable experience.

I tried out the Beach Hut on Saturday evening for dinner; it`s the perfect example in how to combine a relaxed environment with first class food and top-notch service. Try the fish if you can- I had a sea bream risotto on a creamy beetroot and haddock risotto- fresh and full of flavour. And as for their sticky toffee pudding, I`m still dreaming about it!

Fifteen is equally as delightful. The young staff are as passionate about the place and quality of the food as Oliver himself.. The menu boasts local produce with strong Italian influences. What the staff doesn`t know about Puglia Olives and the daily Cornish catch isn`t worth asking! Looking around there was not an empty table or plate of leftovers in the house- a sure sign of success.

With so much eating to be done it`s a good job there are some physical activities to get your teeth into. The bay is also home to the Extreme Academy where you can try out everything from kite surfing to body boarding and beyond. If that sounds like too much exertion then follow in my footsteps and embark upon out one of their costal walks. Fresh air, gorgeous scenery and rugged hills all help to wash away the week and set you up for a good night sleep. All of this can be arranged by the concierge service, in fact if you need your shirts ironed or a chef to come around a feed your guests it can easily be arranged. (And the good news is that Beach retreats customers all receive a 10% discount.)

For a relaxed family holiday, romantic escape or get away with friends it really is a perfect excuse to get away. Book now!

Special offers for 19 Waves include – weeks available in March at the rate of £630 for up to six guests and 5-night breaks at Christmas and new year are also available at £1000 per stay, again for up to six people.