Swallows Drift

One of three holiday properties on a smallholding just a mile from Cornwall’s main arterial route, this retreat delivers a complete escape from the everyday. Reconnect with nature as you amble around the beautiful rewilded field on your doorstep; resident wildlife includes owls, buzzards and small garden birds. You’ll find a convenience store in Summercourt, the nearby village that’s famous as the site of the longest-established fair in Cornwall. Further on, lively Newquay sits on the Atlantic coast and is home to a fine choice of inns and eateries as well as some of the county’s best beaches. Step back in time at Charlestown’s historic harbour (12 miles). Less than 7 miles from here, the world-famous Eden Project and Lost Gardens of Heligan are a plant-lover’s paradise. Continuing the green-fingered theme, Lanhydrock (18 miles) is a magnificent house set in large grounds with plenty of tracks to walk and cycle.

Admire the view across farmland and towards Cornwall’s Clay Country as you approach the smallholding, then park in the courtyard before crossing the first-floor terrace to your front door. Once inside, a shower room to the left sits conveniently close to the bedroom, where you’ll find an enchanting king-sized bed. Beautiful vaulted ceilings add character both here and in the open-plan social space along the hallway. Catch up on together-time while cooking meals for two in the sleek kitchen area, and make next-day plans as you dine at the circular suite close by. Afterwards, snuggle on the sofa and stream your favourite programmes on the Smart TV – a contemporary wood burner in one corner will add after-dark ambience.

French doors from the lounge area open onto countryside views. Take in more of the surrounding scenery as you sit on your private terrace – on a clear, dark night, you should see the Milky Way (this varies), and at certain times of year, shooting stars can be spotted too.