Porthia

Three-bedroom cottage in Lelant village sleeping six, on the Hayle Estuary side of the St Ives peninsula. The village sits between the estuary and the dunes at Porthkidney, which puts the cottage at the quieter end of west Cornwall rather than in the thick of St Ives summer crowds. No dogs at this property.

The cottage has a garden, parking on site, dishwasher, and washing machine. Wi-Fi is included. With 11 Cornwall Hideaways reviews, it is a well-used property that suits those who want space to spread out without a resort price tag.

Porthkidney Beach is 2km - a long, flat strand backed by dunes where the estuary meets the sea. Carbis Bay is 2.6km and has a sheltered south-facing beach with calmer water than the exposed Atlantic side. The RSPB Hayle Estuary reserve is within walking distance and worth the detour in winter when wading birds congregate around the channel. St Ives is 4.5km, reachable by the St Ives Bay Line branch railway from Lelant Saltings station.

Best for couples and families who want a quieter coastal base within reach of St Ives but away from its peak-season crowds. Less suited to those who need the beach on foot - Porthkidney is a 20-minute walk each way.