Smugglers Cottage

Smugglers Cottage is a one-bedroom cottage in Porthleven, 300 metres from the beach, with sea views from the balcony and a wood burner for cooler evenings. The cottage sleeps two in a double room with en-suite shower. Dogs are welcome, and off-road parking is included.

The balcony looks out over the water - the property sits opposite Porthleven’s clock tower, close to the inner harbour. Inside, the layout is compact: a single living space with kitchen and wood burner, one bedroom, and two bathrooms. No dishwasher or washing machine, so it suits short breaks better than extended stays.

Porthleven Beach is a 5-minute walk, facing south-west and picking up Atlantic swell that bypasses most south coast beaches. The harbour draws winter storm-watchers when big swells roll in from the south-west. Kota Restaurant and Kota Kai, both from Rick Stein-trained chef Jude Kereama, sit on the harbour alongside the Harbourside Refuge and several harbour-side cafes. Helston is 3 miles inland for supermarkets and services, and the Lizard is around 20 minutes south by car. Praa Sands, a long sandy beach popular with families, is 5.6km along the coast.

Best for couples or solo visitors who want a village-centre base within earshot of the sea. Less good for guests who need a washing machine or more than one bedroom.