Did you know? A local’s guide to holidays in St Ives…
With a host of accolades and awards to its name, it’s easy to see why St Ives holiday cottages are the first choice for so many guests travelling to Cornwall. From winning Coast Magazine’s “Best Family Holiday Destination”, to being voted one of Europe’s top 10 European beach destinations according to the users of Trip Advisor, the awards keep rolling in.
Attractions in St Ives
You may be content to wander those winding streets and park yourself outside a coffee shop, but there are plenty of attractions in St Ives for those family days out. The Tate St Ives perches right beside Porthmeor Beach, so you can take in some of that famous art scene and then step out onto the sand. The Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture Garden is set in the sculptor’s former home, so it’s another must for anyone with a passion for all things art.
If you’re keen to take in some of the famous coastal views, hop aboard the train from Lelant Station and head to St Ives. The journey may be short, but if you sit on the side with the sea view you’ll get a glimpse of some of the South West’s most gorgeous coastline. You can either get a return, or walk one way, but just don’t forget your camera!
Beaches in St Ives
It’s no surprise that there are some dazzling beaches in St Ives. Everything about this corner of Cornwall is gorgeous, and you’ll have your pick of sandy spots to enjoy. Crystal clear waters lap sandy beaches along the dramatic coast, and with two Blue Flag beaches in the town St Ives is the perfect choice for a beach holiday.
One of those Blue Flag winners is Porthmeor. Set close to the town, the beach is within a short walk of most St Ives holiday cottages. Lifeguards are on duty in the summer months and with some of the town’s best surfing conditions, and the beach being the base for the St Ives surf school, Porthmeor is the natural choice for those looking to learn to surf.
St Ives’ second Blue Flag beach is Porthminster. Situated within a few minutes’ walk of St Ives train station, complete with large car park, Porthminster Beach is very accessible. Again, lifeguards patrol on summer months and dogs are welcome in the winter.
Restaurants in St Ives
All those coastal walks will leave you with a hankering for good, locally sourced food. The Cellar Bistro is one of the most popular St Ives restaurants with the Trip Advisor masses, and it has a great reputation for serving up good food in a cosy setting. Olive’s Café is another favourite, and it’s perfect for a hot drink and a slice of cake in between those sandy walks.
Speaking of sandy walks, Porthmeor Beach Café is all about tasty treats with a spectacular view. Whether you pop in for a pit stop during a day on the sand, or you sample the cuisine and enjoy the setting, it’s a hit. Why not cosy up outside in one of the pods, where you can make the most of the views while you sip on a drink? Bliss.
Wander the cobbled streets that lead down to the harbourside and you’ll find a smattering of friendly local pubs that serve good, hearty meals. Expect a chat with the locals while you wait for your food, and walls lined with photos that offer a peek into the resort’s past.
