Luxury self-catering accommodation on Bodmin Moor
Hikers love this high patch of Cornwall for its desolate beauty and rugged landscape, exploring the rolling moors before ducking into local pubs for well-earned refreshments.
Myth and legend are rife in this windswept, romantic area of North Cornwall, which is peppered with granite boulders and moorland ponies. Cut through by the A30, it's easily accessible for self-catering stays or day trips, and has long provided inspiration for writers such as Daphne du Maurier, who penned Jamaica Inn after a stay here. Walkers aim for the two high peaks of Brown Willy and Rough Tor; from the top, sweeping views of the exposed surroundings provide a dramatic picnic backdrop. The legendary Cheesewring rock formation is another popular hiking landmark on Bodmin Moor and well worth a visit.
Adventurous types should switch on head-torches to tour the underground caves at Carnglaze Caverns, a former slate mine with beautiful woodland walks, or visit famous Bodmin Jail, built with the help of prisoners carrying tons of granite from a local quarry. Seen a rather large cat skulking about? That will be the fabled Beast of Bodmin Moor, captured fuzzily on camera throughout the years but not yet caught. Perhaps its searching for King Arthur's sword Excalibur, said to still be lurking in the dark waters of eeriely ethereal Dozmary Pool, right in the heart of the moors.
Little Inka
St Breward, Bodmin Moor, Cornwall, UK
Hidden on the northern edge of Bodmin Moor, Little Inka's hot tub, roll top and king-size bed beneath a window looking up to the stars make this secluded escape the perfect couples' retreat.
Sleeps: Up to 2 guests
From: £1,295 per week, £995 per short break
Pets: Sorry, no pets
Features: Hot tub and fire pit
Damselfly
St Neot, Bodmin Moor, Cornwall, UK
Sat on the shores of the tree-tunnelled River Warleggan and immersed deep within an England saved only for the wild at heart, Damselfly feels almost stopped in time.
Sleeps: Up to 2 guests
From: £1,095 per week, £850 per short break
Pets: Sorry, no pets
Features: Fire pit and fishing available in the river on prior request
Pixie Nook
Warleggan, Bodmin Moor, Cornwall, UK
This luxury moorland hideaway could easily be mistaken for Kate Winslet’s ‘The Holiday’ cottage. A secluded garden filled with beautiful blooms, wild strawberries and a hot tub makes it the perfect couples' retreat on the Cornish moors.
Sleeps: Up to 2 guests
From: £1,195 per week, £950 per short break
Pets: Two small well-behaved dogs are very welcome
Features: Hot tub
