Eco holiday home in Porthtowan, sleeps 8, near beach, dog friendly

Anemone eco retreat

A perfect base to explore Porthtowan and Cornwall’s epic surf coast

Sleeps 8 in 4 bedrooms Saturday arrival One well behaved dog welcome
The Retreat

Set within a modern development of 28 privately owned eco houses, Anemone is a stylish semi-detached retreat offering everything you need for a comfortable stay by the Cornish coast. With four bedrooms and three bathrooms, its flexible sleeping arrangements are ideal for families and groups. It’s also dog friendly and comes with private parking.

Short breaks are available outside peak booking times, 3 night minimum stay. If you can’t see the dates you want online please contact the team here.

Anemone is tucked away on the edge of Porthtowan, surrounded by quiet countryside yet just a ten-minute walk (or two-minute drive!) from the beach. Designed with thoughtful touches throughout, the house is easy to settle into. Step inside and you’re welcomed into a light, bright open-plan living area with a comfy sofa, smart TV, modern and well-equipped kitchen, and a dining space for eight. One of the en-suite bedrooms is conveniently located on the ground floor, making it especially popular with multi-generational families or teens seeking a bit of independence. Upstairs, you’ll find another en-suite king bedroom, a bunk room, and a twin/king bedroom that share a family bathroom. A travel cot and high chair are available on request.

Outside, a south-facing decking area soaks up the sun all day and is furnished with outdoor sofas and an al fresco dining table. There’s a welly rack, and the communal outdoor showers are perfect for rinsing sandy feet and wetsuits. You also have your own numbered parking space, which can fit two cars end-to-end.

In the same location you can also rent Mulberry which sleeps six. Why not invite family or friends to join you and make some unforgettable Porthtowan memories together?

Out and about in Porthtowan and surrounds

Porthtowan is tucked between dramatic cliffs on the north Cornwall coast, offering wild scenery, a relaxed feel, and plenty to enjoy on your doorstep. It’s a fantastic destination for a Cornish holiday at any time of year. With its laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty, the location makes a great base — whether you want to explore Cornwall or simply stay put and unwind. From Anemone, you can stroll down to the heart of the village in minutes.

The beach, which holds Blue Flag status, is loved by surfers, swimmers and families alike. In summer, it’s perfect for sunbathing, rock pooling and evening beach barbecues — or you can hire wetsuits and book surf lessons. Porthtowan beach is lifeguarded in the main season (check times here). Families will also love the beachside playground and the tidal swimming pool at low tide, and in the cooler months Porthtowan becomes a spectacular spot for coastal walks and storm watching.

With a well-stocked village shop and a range of places to eat just a short stroll away, you may find you spend the whole week happily in the cove. Food and drink highlights include the iconic Blue Bar, where surfers, locals and visitors mingle and enjoy a relaxed vibe and tasty food — especially at sunset, The Unicorn, a great pub for food and drinks, our award-winning fish and chip shop Seasmith’s (arguably the best in Cornwall), the cosy Beach Café, and Moomaid’s addictive ice cream parlour.

The South West Coast Path passes directly through Porthtowan, offering breathtaking walking routes in both directions. Head east towards Chapel Porth and the iconic cliff-top ruins of Wheal Coates, or continue on to St Agnes — a great day-trip destination with plenty to see, do, eat and drink, including the Peterville Inn (Visit England’s Pub of the Year Gold Winner 2024). Westwards, the path takes you along high cliffs with views of inaccessible coves frequented by seals and seabirds, until you reach Portreath. Whether you’re after dramatic vistas or peaceful strolls, it’s a walker’s paradise.

Porthtowan also makes a great base for exploring further afield. Within a 30-minute drive you can reach St Ives for art, food and beaches, Falmouth for maritime heritage, the cathedral city of Truro for shopping and culture, and the magical St Michael’s Mount. History lovers will also appreciate being in the heart of the UNESCO Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape and, nearby sites let you venture underground into real tin mines. The Eden Project, Minack Theatre and even Land’s End are not too far away.

Things we love about Anemone

We love Anemone Eco Retreat because it’s the kind of place that wraps you in calm the moment you arrive — peaceful and private, yet just a short stroll from the wild Atlantic coast. Our perfect day would start with coffee (from the capsule coffee-maker) on the south-facing deck — ideally before the kids wake up. Then maybe an adventure: the coast path eastward to Chapel Porth is spectacular (and the little café there serves unforgettable hedgehog ice creams). If the tide is fully out, you can walk all the way back along the beach — just check tide times carefully first! Back at Anemone, grab the bodyboards and hit the sea. Whether it’s barbecues in the dunes, a wander to the Blue Bar, or a walk to the dramatic cliffs of Wheal Coates, this is a wonderful base for exploring. Stylish, warm and welcoming, Anemone is everything a Cornish escape should be.

Nothing we didn’t like!
We had a great trip and the house was perfect for our group - spacious clean and the host is lovely. The property is in a great location, right by the beach and perfect for a big group. Very clean, spacious and had all the facilities you need to cook etc. Host was lovely and very helpful even put the heating on for us prior to our arrival (we stayed in January) - would definitely recommend and will be back if we’re ever visiting this part of Cornwall again! Nothing we didn’t like!
Kevin — January 2025
Features

Retreat Features

  • Sleeps 8 in 4 bedrooms (2 en suite)
  • Dog friendly
  • South-facing deck with seating and dining
  • 10 mins’ walk to the beach
  • Private parking for 2 cars
  • Travel cot & high chair on request
SLEEPING
Principal bedroom: king bed with en suite and balcony
Second bedroom: Twin beds (zip-and-link, can be made up as a king on request)
Third bedroom: bunk beds, plus study desk
Fourth bedroom: ground floor double with en suite
Bed linen and bath towels provided (please bring your own beach towels)
LIVING & RELAXING
Comfortable seating for all guests
50” Smart TV
Wi-Fi
OUTDOORS
Decking area to the front with 2 outdoor sofas and al fresco dining table (private but adjacent to the neighbouring property)
Communal gardens and outdoor areas shared with other residents (except decking and rear utility space)
Sorry, use of barbecues is not permitted
Outdoor après-surf shower (shared)
Anemone is set in communal gardens and outdoor areas shared with other residents
Footpath to beach
BABIES & TODDLERS
Travel cot and high chair on request (cot linen not provided)
Sorry, no stairgates provided
HEATING AND EFFICIENCY
Efficient electric heating
Heated air circulator
Wood burner
PARKING
Allocated space 15m from house, fits two cars end-to-end
BATHROOMS
Principal bedroom en suite
Ground floor bedroom en suite
Family bathroom with shower and bath (first floor)
COOKING & DINING
Open-plan kitchen and dining
Full-height fridge/freezer (60/40 split)
Electric induction hob
L’OR coffee machine (Nespresso Original capsule compatible)
Dining table with seating for all guests
Washer/tumble-dryer
ACCESSIBILITY
The path from car park to the property has no steps, it is paved and slopes
One double bedroom is on the ground-floor and is en suite
Staircase to first floor has a handrail on one side
PETS
One well-behaved dog welcome
Dogs must be kept on leads at all times
ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES
Standard check-in day: Saturday
Short breaks available outside peak seasons (minimum 3 nights)
Arrivals from 5pm
Departures by 10am
Location

PORTHTOWAN

Porthtowan, on Cornwall’s rugged north coast, is a small but lively seaside village known for its wide sandy beach, dramatic cliffs, and laid-back surf culture. Nestled within a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it’s a favourite spot for surfers and families alike. At low tide, golden sands stretch out beneath towering cliffs, with rock pools and caves to explore, while the surf offers consistent waves for both beginners and experienced riders.

The village itself has a relaxed charm, with a handful of cafés, beach bars, and surf shops creating a welcoming atmosphere. Porthtowan’s iconic Blue Bar, overlooking the sea, is the perfect place to watch the sunset with a drink in hand. The surrounding cliffs and heathland are laced with scenic walks, including the South West Coast Path leading towards Chapel Porth and St Agnes, offering breathtaking views across the Atlantic. With its mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and a friendly community feel, Porthtowan captures the essence of Cornwall’s coastal appeal.

Travel times

  • Anemone is about 10 minutes from the nearest mainline station at Redruth. Regular and convenient services run from all over the UK.
  • Anemone is about 10 minutes from the Chiverton Cross roundabout on the outskirts of Truro, coming from the A30. Driving time from London is around five or six hours in normal traffic, while Exeter is just under two hours away. We’ll send you detailed route information before your departure.

Things we love

  • A peaceful setting on the edge of the village, just a short walk to the beach
  • A calming, contemporary space that feels instantly welcoming
  • Excellent coastal walking to be had without getting in the car
  • Moments from the laid-back charm of the Blue Bar and local cafĂ©s

The porthtowan guide

Little gems

Porthtowan may be a small village, but it’s packed with charm and community spirit. Independent businesses and friendly locals make this place feel like home, with little gems to discover at every turn. Broadcaster Simon Reeve even called Porthtowan Beach one of his favourite spots in Cornwall — a mix of wild surf, golden sand and dramatic cliff scenery that captures the essence of the county.

You’ll find surf shops, a village store and eateries where the welcome is as warm as the food. Just outside the village, Mount Pleasant Eco Park is a creative hub hosting live music, markets, craft workshops and community events, making it a must-visit for something a little different.

Beach life

Life here revolves around the beach. Porthtowan’s sandy bay has earned Blue Flag status and is lifeguarded in summer, making it as popular with families as it is with surfers. With waves that draw both beginners and experts, local surf schools and hire shops are on hand for lessons and equipment.

At low tide, the beach reveals rock pools and even a hidden tidal pool carved into the cliffs. The South West Coast Path leads straight from the sand, with walks north to Chapel Porth and St Agnes Head or south towards Portreath. Evenings are made for barefoot strolls, barbecues in the dunes and watching the sun sink into the Atlantic.

Things to do

Porthtowan is ideally placed for exploring Cornwall. On the doorstep, you can join the coast path, uncover historic mining ruins, or head to the heathland for wildlife spotting. Just minutes away is Mount Hawke’s famous indoor skatepark, while nearby riding centres and kayak tours offer adventures for all the family.

Further afield, you can head north to the surf beaches of Newquay, south to St Ives’ galleries and beaches, or inland to Truro’s cathedral and Falmouth’s bustling harbour. With so much within easy reach, Porthtowan is the perfect base for discovering both Cornwall’s coast and countryside.

Beaches

Porthtowan Beach

The village’s own beach is a vast sandy stretch, with panoramic views that reach Godrevy Lighthouse to the west and the famous Wheal Coates mine to the east. Lifeguarded in summer and Blue Flag awarded, it’s perfect for swimming, surfing and family days out. A seasonal dog ban applies between Easter and September.

Chapel Porth

You’ll find this small sand and pebble cove hidden away at the end of a long country lane, wedged between St Agnes and Porthtowan on the north coast. It’s one of the most exposed beaches on this stretch making it a popular spot for surfers and bodyboarders. There are some wonderful caves and lagoons to explore, plus a stream that runs down the beach for little ones to play in. You can walk the coast path to St Agnes Head, on the way passing the dramatic ruins of Wheal Coates mine, one of Cornwall’s most iconic engine houses. The popular cafe in the car park serves breakfast and brunch throughout the year.

Forever Cornwall Porthmeor St Ives Clear Water Dave Bleasdale

Trevaunance Cove, St Agnes

This is St Agnes’ main beach, a small cove backed by cliffs and rocks; at low tide the rocks either side of the sandy beach are exposed, revealing masses of rockpools. It’s a popular haunt for families, surfers and bodyboarders, and with board and wetsuit hire and surf lessons available, it gets busy in the summer. There are two car parks less than a minute’s walk away and excellent local facilities. At low tide it’s possible to walk to the neighbouring beach of Trevellas Porth.

Places to eat

Beachside bites and sundowners

Right on the sand, The Blue Bar has become a Porthtowan icon — the go-to place for cocktails, hearty burgers, live music and unbeatable sunset views. Just a few steps away, the Porthtowan Beach Café is a local favourite, famous for its generous breakfasts and easygoing evening menus. Both make the most of their seafront setting, so you can grab a bite and watch the waves roll in.

Cornish classics and sweet treats

No seaside stay is complete without fish and chips, and Seasmiths serves some of the best, a modern twist on a traditional favourite, cooked fresh and perfect for beach suppers. For something sweeter, Moo Maid scoops up Cornish ice cream in every flavour you could wish for, best enjoyed with sandy toes and salty hair.

Pubs and pop-ups

For a cosy pint and hearty meal, The Unicorn is the village pub with plenty of character. A short stroll inland takes you to Canteen at the Eco Park, where food and community come together. With vegan feasts, street food pop-ups, themed nights and live music under the stars, it’s a lively hub that feels like the soul of Porthtowan.

Things to do

Hiking and coastal exploration

The South West Coast Path runs right through Porthtowan, so you can lace up your boots and set off in either direction. Head north towards Chapel Porth and St Agnes Head for engine houses perched on the cliffs and sweeping Atlantic views, or wander south to Portreath along rugged paths alive with seabirds and wildflowers. Inland, heathland trails offer quieter walks through Cornwall’s mining heritage, perfect for mixing history with fresh sea air.

Surf, swim and sea adventures

Porthtowan is a paradise for water lovers. The beach is one of Cornwall’s top surf spots, with local surf schools offering lessons and equipment hire for all levels. Bodyboarding, swimming and paddleboarding are all popular too, with lifeguards on duty through the summer making it safe for families. On the beach since the 1970s, Tris Surf Shop is a local legend — part surf school, part surf store, and a true hub of Porthtowan’s surf culture, run with the same passion for waves and lifestyle that it started with over 50 years ago. For a different perspective, join a sea kayak trip with Koru Kayaking and explore caves, cliffs and hidden coves, or simply float in the shallows before warming up with a beachside hot chocolate.

Out and about

Beyond surf and sand, Porthtowan has plenty of surprises. Mount Hawke Skatepark, one of the UK’s best indoor skate facilities, is just minutes away and a huge hit with kids and teens. For a slower pace, try horse riding at Goonbell Riding Centre, with treks suitable for all ages and abilities. Or, if you’d rather wind down, the Soul Sweats Sauna offers a wood-fired retreat overlooking the waves — the perfect place to relax after a day outdoors. Evenings can be spent at the Eco Park, where food nights and live music bring the community together under starlit skies.

Enhance your stay

Affordable private dining

Imagine your own private chef! It’s far more affordable than you think, and it supports local businesses. Discover how to find and book the right chef for you!

Follow this link to read more.

Guests Say
  • ... super nice holiday home

    A super nice holiday home that has everything you need for a relaxing stay with the family. The location to the beach was good, just a bit steep, and it was nice and quiet.

    Marlene — June 2025
  • ... would definitely recommend

    We had a great trip and the house was perfect for our group - spacious clean and the host is lovely. The property is in a great location, right by the beach and perfect for a big group. Very clean, spacious and had all the facilities you need to cook etc. Host was lovely and very helpful even put the heating on for us prior to our arrival (we stayed in January) - would definitely recommend and will be back if we’re ever visiting this part of Cornwall again! Nothing we didn’t like!

    Kevin — January 2025
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Please note, we only release dates 11 months ahead, so please check back or enquire for more availability.