St Michaels

St Michaels is a two-bedroom semi-detached cottage for four, set on the hill above Porthleven harbour. Two bathrooms serve the group, and the upper floor has gently sloping ceilings - worth checking with the provider if guests need full head height throughout.

Sea views extend from the elevated position, and a lounge window seat is promoted for dolphin watching, though sightings can't be guaranteed. Old beams, local artwork and furnishings inspired by the mid-century St Ives art scene shape the interior, alongside an open fire for cooler evenings. Parking, a dishwasher, washing machine and garden are included, and dogs are welcome. The ground-floor kitchen/diner has exposed stone walls and overhead beams, and the kitchen has a Nespresso coffee maker. The garden across the road has a bench seat for watching the waves.

Porthleven Beach and the harbour are around 500 metres away, with Porthcew Rinsey Cove 2.2 miles further along the coast and Praa Sands 3.3 miles. Porthleven itself has become one of Cornwall's better food villages, home to Kota Restaurant on the harbourside, and the coast path east leads to Loe Bar, the shingle barrier separating Loe Pool from the sea.

**Best for:** Two couples wanting sea views, an open fire, local artwork and Porthleven's restaurants within walking distance.

**Less good for:** Guests needing step-free access.