#ThisIsLiving Guide to Perranporth, Cornwall

Get back to nature in this under-the-radar seaside town. Not far from Newquay, Perranporth is a go-to for sea-to-plate restaurants, outdoor living and surfing adventures on Cornwall’s widest beaches. The first installation of our #ThisIsLiving Guide, in partnership with Corona. Let’s get back on the road.

In partnership with

Photo credit: Matt Jessop | Visit Cornwall

Tucked between Newquay and Porthtowan, this laid-back town on Cornwall's northern coast draws adventure seekers and surfers with expansive, blonde-beer sands, miles of coastline and a secluded seawater swimming pool. And beyond that, a sand-blown high street crammed with independents. Small wonder Perranporth is piquing the attention of those looking to get back to the good life.

There's an untamed appeal to the Perranporth Beach - all dramatic caves, arched rock formations, wind-carved dunes and wide shores that, at low tide, join with neighbouring Penhale Sands to form one of Cornwall's largest beaches. Sure, in high summer it draws day-trippers. But linger a little longer, travel a little slower and it's likely you'll have this coastal enclave all to yourself.

Days are spent clambering across sloping sands, catching waves near the cliffs of Droskyn Point and sauntering along the postcard-perfect coastal path. When you're done, retreat to the smattering of eco-conscious, self-catering boltholes that pride themselves on their off-grid locations, homegrown hospitality and an ethos rooted outdoor living.

Competing with the buzzy beach bars of Newquay and the boutiques of St Ives, Perranporth town's slew of independent restaurants, bars and lodgings championing community spirit are dotted along the beachfront. Expect locally sourced produce, evenings soundtracked by local bands and a solid helping of fiery sunsets. Forget Bondi or Bali, this is your front-row seat to nature's finest cinema.

Eager to reconnect with the great outdoors? This is the first installation of our #ThisIsLiving Guide, in partnership with Corona. We've chatted with locals, sampled seafood and pasties, and trodden wildflower-fringed coastal trails to bring you the best places to stay and play along Perranporth's rugged coast. Let's get back on the road.

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Tinners’ Retreat Shepherd’s Hut

Off-grid and eco-conscious? We’re sold. Less than a half-hour drive away from Perranporth (and within walking distance of several Cornish hotspots), this design-forward shepherd’s hut is the ideal place to hunker down. Inside you’ll find upcycled and handmade copper shower, reclaimed wooden shelves and a wood burner, plus a welcome hamper stacked with homemade goodies – think scoffable flapjacks, just-baked bread and a carton of golden Fern Cottage eggs from the chickens roaming freely outside. Outdoor living is a cut above here; there’s a help-yourself-vegetable patch, wood-fired pizza oven and barbecue that makes rustling up starlit dinner a breeze.

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The Hide

Canggu or Cornwall? Hidden at the end of a winding Cornish country lane, this stylish self-catering bolthole is a beacon for creative, bohemian types. With its peephole windows that mimic the dappled light of forest, indoor-outdoor living space and just smattering of rattan, The Hide immerses your in the idyllic natural surrounds. Rise early to practice yoga on the deck – blocks and mats are provided – before heading to Cornwall’s best surfing spots for a day spent tackling the waves or paddling in the pretty coves. Holywell Bay, Trevaunance Cove and Perranporth Beach are a short amble away. As sun sets, dip between the fairy-lit outdoor hot tub and the big-enough-to-share stone bath for a restorative soak, before rustling up an al fresco barbecue dinner around the firepit.

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Libertine

This cottage is the stuff of modern fairy tales. In fact, its owner stumbled upon the former pig barn – once home to three little piggies – while lost in the woods. After falling head-over-heels, the former fashion buyer sympathetically reconceptualised the dilapidated farm building as countryside haven. Stylish touches include jewel-tone velvet sofas, neon tiles and a revamped stable door that opens to meadows. It’s real draw? The miles of bluebell-strewn meadows that tumble all the way down to Perranporth Beach. Nab the low-slung hammock that overlooks the fields dotted with grazing cows, pop open a Corona and enjoy an afternoon siesta in the great outdoors.

Address

Goonhavern, Perranporth