Luxury self-catering accommodation in Porth Joke

Continuing the long string of beaches running up the north Cornish coast, Porth Joke, or 'Poly Joke' as it's more locally known, is one of the area's best-kept secrets, a smaller version of the classic Cornish day-tripper idyll and the perfect place for a luxury self-catering hideaway. The quiet location and moderate distance from car park attracts those seeking to read a good book in peace or take a tranquil dip in the less crowded waves. That said, aqua activities are all around these waters with boarding mecca Newquay a few bays north, so there will always be a handful of sunkissed surfers enjoying the clear blue ocean.

Day-trips inland are plentiful from here. Head north to the fishing port of Padstow for a plate of the freshest daily catch. Rick Stein's world-famous Seafood Restaurant is based here, along with many other well-stocked maritime cafés and eateries. From Padstow you can hop on the ferry for the short sail across to the high-end area of Rock, for a picnic full of local goodies on the other side. Sporty types can hire, or bring, a bike to ride the Camel Trail, a scenic disused railway line with views over the water from Padstow to the busy river town of Wadebridge; don't forget you'll need to cycle all the way back again.