5 St Gwithian

A top-floor apartment in a Victorian building in Carbis Bay, sleeping two. The king-size bedroom has a roll-top bath positioned beneath a sea-view window - a deliberate design detail rather than an afterthought. Bi-fold balcony doors open to views across St Ives Bay toward Godrevy lighthouse on the far headland. Number 5 is one of several apartments in the building, which retains its Victorian proportions and exterior. A communal lawn sits at the front.

Inside: one bathroom, WiFi, and private parking. The layout is compact and well-finished, built for two rather than a group. The apartment is listed through Luxury Coastal with 4 reviews and a 4.8 rating. Prices from GBP656/night.

Carbis Bay beach is 700m down the hill - a sandy, sheltered cove with calmer water than the exposed St Ives beaches. St Ives itself is 2km away on foot or by the St Ives Bay Line train, a branch line running from St Erth. The Tate St Ives gallery sits directly above Porthmeor beach. Porthminster Beach is 2.1km from the apartment and Porthkidney Beach is 1.4km.

Best for: couples who want St Ives Bay views and easy beach access in a property with genuine character. Less suited to guests with limited mobility - accessed via numerous steps - or anyone travelling with children or dogs.