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The Cotton Tree | Luxury Self-Catering Cottage | Holywell Bay

The Cotton Tree

Tresean, Holywell Bay, Cornwall, UK

A clapperboard retreat settled in a quiet north Cornwall village, The Cotton Tree is just minutes from the rolling surf of Holywell Bay and Polly Joke beach. A fresh approach on coastal living, this luxury self-catering cottage is a place to soak in the hot tub with a glass of fizz under the midday sun and hunker down with the dog in front of the woodburner.

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Introduction

Taking inspiration from the owner’s extensive time spent on Australia’s north coast, this luxury self-catering cottage near Holywell Bay embodies the very essence of Queenslander-style living. Here is a dog-friendly bolthole that oozes laid-back romance; you'll find thick linens, salvaged sailing relics, and exposed wood behind The Cotton Tree’s walls, while a wraparound sun deck and gurgling hot tub combine to create elevated outdoor living. Just one miles' walk over undulating hills is the surf and sand, making this stylish beach house-inspired escape one of north Cornwall's coolest coastal homes.

Inside

With a beachcomber edge to the scheme, open plan indoor-outdoor living combine in this Antipodean-esque abode. White-washed walls and age-worn wood create a timeless aesthetic at The Cotton Tree and, despite its light and bright summer-vibe interiors, this luxury self-catering cottage is as cosy a winter retreat for couples as it is a stylised summer getaway. There's a romantic edge to the bedroom, where loose linen casually drapes from floor to ceiling within this zen zone. If parents are travelling with little ones, there is a single bedroom that can be taken in addition to the master bedroom.

Outside

From the hot tub that leads directly from the bedroom, to the pergola covered seating area and alfresco dining veranda; whatever the Cornish weather, you can still be assured of a fresh air fix. Inspired by the simple coastal planting scheme, head beachward for an on-foot exploration that will have your toes sandy in no time. Those seeking new experiences can partake in a surf lesson, kayak trip, or fish for your supper expedition. Some of Britain's best dog-friendly beaches are within close proximity of the cottage for those travelling to this romantic couples' retreat with four-legged friends in tow.

The Facts

  • SleepsUp to 2 guests
    From £1,250 per week, £950 per short break
    Day hire options are available
  • Bedrooms and bathroomsA small set of steps separate the double bedroom with king-size bed from the rest of the house, where there is a single bedroom (available on prior request at an additional cost of £75) and a bathroom with cast iron bath and separate double his-and-hers shower.
    View bedrooms
  • HousekeepingAdditional housekeeping can be arranged
  • FeaturesHot tub
  • PetsTwo small well-behaved dogs are welcome, or three on prior request
    Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof
  • Arrivals and departuresArrival Day: Friday or MondayArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
  • FamilyYes, children are very welcome. One cot and one highchair are available.
  • PracticalitiesThere is parking for two cars. The kitchen has an oven and hobs, dishwasher, fridge, freezer and a washer-dryer. The single bedroom can be used, on request, for an additional £75; a rail can be attached to the side of the bed, perfect for toddlers.
  • Homestay includesSmart TV, Netflix, iPad, WiFi internet (please note there is limited mobile reception), charcoal barbecue, linen, hammam towels for the hot tub, board games, local produce, logs and kindling for the fire...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more
  • Private cateringSeeking a celebratory dinner or fully catered escape? Our recommended caterers will work with you to create personalised menus for your stay. Details are shared through our house book on confirming your booking.
  • RetreatsFrom foraging weekenders to crash courses in cold-water therapy, our bespoke retreats bridge the gap between luxury and back-to-nature philosophies. Create a hand-crafted stay that puts connectivity at the fore.
  • Eco-friendlyElectric car charging point available
  • Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questionsEV charger locationsCheck mobile signalRecommend to a friend

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Stairs from the living area lead down to the bedroom
Spend sunny days with a hardback in the hammock
The beach-style kitchen is light-filled and bright

Prices & Availability

Holywell Bay

A mile of golden beach, a handful of rock pools and a backdrop of dunes: no wonder this beautiful Cornish bay is deemed a blissful holiday hangout.

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Holywell Bay
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Getting there

  • On the Map The cottage is situated in the hamlet of Tresean close to Holywell Bay and Polly Joke on the north coast of Cornwall.
  • By Car From London, take the M4, the M5, then the A30 into Cornwall and follow the directions provided to the property.
  • By Train Nearest train station is Newquay (15 minutes drive), although services are infrequent. Bodmin Parkway train station (approximately 45 minutes drive) or Truro (20 minutes drive) offer more frequent services.
  • By Air Newquay Airport is approximately 20 minutes drive away.

From the owner

“Taking me back to my days spent in Australia, the design for The Cotton Tree took all the elements of a beach cottage that I´d seen/stayed in/admired to create a holistic wellness inspired abode, that´s at once uplifting and rejuvenating.”

From the owner

Living in Australia for over 10 years with a young family, I had always wanted to recreate the laid-back essence of beach cottages that can often be found along the Queensland coast.

With the family now all grown up,  I now find myself able (when time permits) to enjoy indulgent escapes with my partner, and when the opportunity to purchase the piece of land on which The Cotton Tree now resides came about I immediately had in mind the property I might create.

With whitewashed interiors, lofty ceilings and a focus on indoor/outdoor living, we created a space that offers tranquillity for busy minds.

We both have demanding jobs that take up a lot of our time and when I'm here I relish waking to birdsong, spending a relaxing afternoon in the garden and mostly the fact that I can walk to Holywell Bay and Porth Joke Beach! There are also some really lovely eateries nearby for those who want to truly relax during your break!

The Stanleys

Owner recommendations

Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Holywell Bay with an insider’s perspective.

The Minack Theatre

To See

The Minack Theatre

The Minack Theatre is a stunning open-air theatre carved into the hillside overlooking Porthcurno Beach. Watching a play unfold as the sun sets over the sea is a truly magical experience; don´t forget a cushion, blanket and bottle of preferred to really get into the spirit!

The Fish House, Newquay

To Eat

The Fish House, Newquay

An award-winning restaurant run by chef Paul Harwood, so be sure to book early. Enjoy fantastic views out over the ocean, delicious fresh fish dishes, wonderful wine and a superb atmosphere.

Camel Trail

To Do

Camel Trail

A great day out for all the family to enjoy, The Camel Trail runs between Bodmin, Wadebridge and Padstow and is perfect for a leisurely bike ride. Enjoy peaceful views across the estuary and stop off for the afternoon in Padstow for treats and a trip to the Lobster Sanctuary.

Cornish Wine Tours

To Do

Cornish Wine Tours

Cornish Wine Tours offer trips to visit the best of the Cornish vineyards. From Camel Valley, Trivibban Mill, Knightor Winery and Bosue Vinyard, tours run Tuesday to Saturday with the option of half and full day tours with lunch.

Guest Testimonials

We were delighted with the standard of The Cotton Tree, beautifully decorated and excellently maintained. The gardens were lovely and safe for our dogs which is important. The hot tub was an absolute treat. First visit to Holywell Bay, it´s so pretty, we´ll be back.

This is the most beautiful place. We have loved looking at and appreciating every last detail. We have enjoyed BBQs in the garden, and soaks in the hot tub. Thank you for the bubbly! I have spent so much time just looking at all the grasses blowing in the garden. Perranporth beach was incredible and the Lost Church. We enjoyed a local walk across the fields and dunes to Holywell Bay too. We would absolutely love to come back one day.

We have been very impressed with the whole experience from booking through to the wonderful week we’ve just enjoyed at The Cotton Tree. Would definitely recommend. Thank you.

The Cotton Tree looked beautiful on the website and was even more wonderful in real life. It was complete luxury for our family for the week. The house is practical whilst maintaining amazing boho decor and we can´t wait to book again. Unique Homestays always offer an amazing service and we would never dream of holidaying with any other company in the UK.

What an absolutely stunning house and just the most wonderful birthday stay. Thank you for creating such a haven. It has been the most perfect time and we will be back. Thank you.

A beautiful and very chic house, The Cotton Tree is very relaxing and just what we needed. Thank you so much for the welcome gifts in the hamper, they were very much appreciated. We look forward to staying with you again!

We just would love to say a big thank you. We found a new home at The Cotton Tree, something so outstanding, beautiful, fresh and welcoming. A cosy place, with a lovely fireplace that just called us to return in the evenings. Thank you for having us and with a warm heart, we wish you all the best.

We booked The Cotton Tree two days before arriving and it has been the perfect, last minute getaway - it´s absolutely stunning! We´ve enjoyed blustery walks to Holywell Bay before relaxing in the hot tub! We hope to be back later in the year!

Just the perfect Christmas week! Such a wonderful house and although the weather wasn´t overly kind, we had some great long walks; the beaches and scenery are stunning! Thank you for making The Cotton Tree so welcoming and Christmassy.

The entire property is stunning. Everything is beautifully presented, the property has everything you would need for a little getaway. Arriving with the music on and a bottle of bubbly plus other lovely things was such a wonderful touch. And the fireplace is divine! We love design, attention to detail and beautiful interiors and everything is so beautiful and all the small details made our trip really perfect. Our experience with Unique Homestays was outstanding and we will definitely be going back for future holidays.

We loved it! Having the Sonos playing when we arrived was a lovely touch, as was the local produce which we tucked into after our journey! The dog bowl and bed were very sweet. Being able to let our dog, Teddy, wander in the enclosed garden was great! The bathroom is my favourite, so well styled and with big powerful showers and underfloor heating; all very luxurious. The vintage, reclaimed, industrial fixtures and fittings worked well and combined with the mod cons it´s a very well-designed property. If only we could have stayed longer!

Well, what a perfect start to married life! Our honeymoon here was absolutely perfect! The Cotton Tree is just amazing and we don´t want to leave. We were lucky and have had some truly beautiful weather. We love Holywell Bay and The Treguth Inn is a lovely pub, plus it serves my favourite gin! There are great walks to be had all around, we had a great wander to Crantock and a good soak in the hot tub when we got back! The perfect place and perfect location!

The Cotton Tree is simply stunning. We´ve had such a lovely week exploring local areas in the beautiful sunshine. Crantock beach was one of our favourites, as well as Fistral; both ideal for doggies. Our Cockapoo loved the days we spent there. It has been a perfect week, thank you!

We had a wonderful week in the Cotton Tree. The house is simply perfect with attention to every detail. Luckily, the weather was brilliant and we spent a lot of time on the coastal path. After a day of walking the hot tub was sheer bliss in the evening. Thank you some much for sharing your lovely house.

We have had a wonderful stay at The Cotton Tree and didn´t want to leave! It´s a beautiful cottage and a great location for exploring the area. It was a shame that the weather was cold, however it did mean that we could relax at the house! Thank you.

We absolutely loved our stay at The Cotton Tree and the whole process whilst using Unique Homestays. The house was beautiful and we couldn´t recommend it enough. So chic and stylish! We loved our stay would definitely visit again!

We had a wonderful start to 2019 at The Cotton Tree. We have thoroughly enjoyed our stay; the accommodation was first class and everything has been done to a high standard. The location and the good weather meant it was perfect for getting out onto the coastal path to the local beaches, Polly Joke and Crantock.

We had a lovely four day break away from the hustle and bustle and were even lucky enough to be here for the snow! The local area is beautiful and we have been so impressed with the attention to detail in the cottage and the hot tub and log burner have been an absolute treat. Crantock Beach and Padstow were great, The Cotton Tree is just wonderful!

We had a most wonderful time at The Cotton Tree, in which all arrangements you made for us played no small part. Indeed, we cannot imagine any way that it could have been bettered. The weather itself was perfect, but we still had to try the spectacular log burner. The property is picture perfect in every way. Every choice we made seemed to be the right one. Thanks for the added provisions, they made a huge difference to our stay.

The Cotton Tree was absolutely amazing and it was so much more than we could have wished for. Set in a lovely tiny hamlet location and within walking distance to the beach was just perfect! Evenings were spent sipping wine under the stars in the fantastic hot tub which was so very romantic. With its sumptuous furnishings and the most comfy bed, we had a totally dreamy experience. We really did not want to leave The Cotton Tree bubble.

The Cotton Tree is so different, it´s such a magical retreat where we felt that we could truly relax. We spent much of our time in the hanging chair, hammock and the hot tub. Being able to walk to the beach was an added treat. We enjoyed long summer evenings with the wood fired barbecue followed by dips in the hot tub with a glass of wine. Thank you for a wonderful stay.

Unique extras

From private chefs to luxury at-home spa therapists and adrenalin-fuelled retreats, once you’ve booked your stay we’ll introduce you to our owner-recommended suppliers to create a truly bespoke, memorable escape.

Press

Below are a selection of features in which Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.

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Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.

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