Urchins Peak

Urchins Peak is a four-bedroom cottage in Little Petherick, a small valley village 3.5 miles south of Padstow, sleeping eight across three bathrooms. The bedroom layout is well-configured for two couples or a larger family: a king-size room, a zip-and-link that can be made into a super-king on request, and two twin rooms. The large decked terrace opens directly from the kitchen and faces across the valley, giving it a rural outlook with no immediate neighbours visible.

The Camel Trail runs through the edge of the village. This 18-mile traffic-free route converts a former Victorian railway line into a cycling and walking path, running from Padstow through Wadebridge and on to Bodmin. Bike hire is available in Padstow and Wadebridge. On a flat section of the trail, the Padstow-Wadebridge leg of around 5.5 miles can be done in under an hour on a bicycle.

Three beaches are all accessible within 15 minutes. Trevone Bay is 4.5km, with a small car park and swimming suitable for most conditions. Harlyn Bay is 5.3km and known for surf lessons and lifeguard cover. Daymer Bay, the sandiest and most sheltered option in the area, is 5.8km. Padstow harbour restaurants - including the multi-venue Rick Stein group - are 3.5 miles away.

Suits two families or a group of 8 who want a quieter base than Padstow itself while keeping beach and cycling options within range. Two dogs are welcome, and the garden and terrace give them outdoor space. Not great for those who need to be within walking distance of the harbour or town amenities - a car is essential here.