Winter Walker Wonders

Winter walker wonder

Hidden amongst the wilds of the Lizard Peninsula, Housel Bay is the perfect place for those searching for a remote winter escape.

Words by Coast Path Mag

Perched on nature’s edge, above a secluded cove at the most southerly point of the UK, Housel Bay is a hotel inspired by nature. They invite you to come and wash off the city, breathe in the fresh sea air, and explore this unique location.

Lizard Point is a largely undiscovered part of the UK, a hidden area of Cornwall where few have ventured. It is recognised as an area of outstanding natural beauty, which evolves magnificently from season to season, with places that seemingly time forgot. Secluded beaches, fresh sea air, vast green landscape, and dramatic cliff tops. There really is nowhere else quite like it.

Housel Bay is a walker’s paradise. Step directly out of their garden gate and begin your journey along the South West Coast Path. Walk for miles exploring the beauty of the Lizard Peninsula, a truly diverse and ever changing landscape. Located on the west side of the Lizard, just one hours coastal walk away, you can explore the picturesque Kynance Cove. The white soft sand and turquoise water, contrasted against the emerald green and dark red serpentine rock is a spectacular sight. At low tide you can venture down to the beach, admire the towering rocks and explore the remarkable caves.

Venturing along the coastal path from Housel Bay in either direction admiring the rugged coastline, you can spot Atlantic grey seals, wild ponies, and if you are lucky even the famous Cornish Chough along the way. The Lizard Peninsula is home to many beautiful and rare seabirds, and nature lover’s will delight in the rare flora and fauna. The Lizard’s warmer microclimate generates a plethora of subtropical vegetation, including fifty five rare species such as wild chives and twin headed clovers. It truly is a dream for lovers of nature in all its guises.

If you walk eastwards from the Housel Bay gardens, along the South West Coast Path, you can discover Cadgwith Cove. Cadgwith is not only where Housel Bay sources the majority of the seafood for their restaurants, but it is one of those Cornish fishing villages that time seems to have passed by. You can take a swim at the beach, the clear water is perfect for rock pooling and snorkelling. You will also find fishing boats winched up to the beach in front of the boat houses. There are some wonderful local cosy pubs here, making the undulating hours walk from Housel Bay even more worthwhile. ›

The quieter, winter months are a particularly special time to visit Housel Bay. Tackle epic coastal walks during the day, by night wander to a hidden cove to stargaze, and be mesmerised by the clear unspoilt views to the south. As Housel Bay is anchored above the most southerly tip of the British mainland, they meet the full force of the Atlantic storms. Get cosy inside, and be immersed by the sights and sounds as the waves crash heavily against the cliffs. It really is one of the best places to storm watch. One of the luxuries of visiting in winter is that you escape the summer crowds, allowing you to take full advantage of the beautiful deserted beaches. Soak up the waves all to yourself, and enjoy moments of pure peace and tranquility. Or take a dip in the alluring Cornish blue, and feel re-energised after a cold water swim. Our favourite secret spot is Housel Bay beach. It can be reached via a footpath directly from their garden, in under five minutes. This tidal beach is often only used by hotel guests and a handful of local people from the Lizard Village.

Take the opportunity to switch off this winter and wake up to the sounds of the ocean. Each bedroom at Housel Bay has a unique view of the Lizard. Gaze out of your window to take in the endless blue of the Atlantic ocean, or the rugged wilderness of the Lizard Peninsula. Enjoy use of their brand new ‘Studio’ space during your stay, the perfect space for a moment of calm, to stretch and meditate. Yoga mats are provided by the hotel, as well as ambient lighting, music and calming scents. The hotel also offers weekly yoga classes, which are aimed to help guests feel energised but relaxed; and to set you up to gain nourishment from the beautiful landscape that surrounds us on the Lizard Peninsula.

Another option to while away your afternoons is to make yourself comfortable in their ‘Snug.’ Curl up with a book by a crackling fire, and enjoy local wines or seasonal cocktails from ‘Marconi’s Bar.’ Their bar is named after the famous Guglielmo Marconi, who in the summer of 1900 stayed at Housel Bay hotel. During his stay, Marconi sent and received the first wireless message across the Atlantic Ocean, to a military base in Newfoundland, Canada, a distance of 2100 miles. This historic character can still be felt within the walls. The Victorian architecture was designed by famous Cornishman, Silvanus Trevail, and many of the original features remain unchanged. ‘Marconi’s Bar’ and the ‘Snug’ both have fireplaces, comfy sofas, and uninterrupted sea views.

During your stay at Housel Bay you can enjoy the best local Cornish produce with menus inspired by the season and nature’s larder at their two restaurants. The Terrace has uninterrupted views of sea, a relaxed atmosphere and serves delicious plates. Whether it is breakfast to start your day right, an afternoon Cornish tea or to enjoy a lunch or dinner menu inspired by the land and sea to refuel you after a day exploring the coast. For foodies, you can experience a culinary tour of Cornwall with a five course tasting menu, with optional paired wines, at their signature restaurant Fallowfields. Each course is named after the origin of the hero ingredient, described by the AA as “much to admire.” Fallowfields was recently nominated as ‘best restaurant’ by the prestigious Trenchermans’ Guide. The Lizard Peninsula truly is a Mecca for stunning local produce, which the chefs at Housel Bay cannot wait to share with you.

Housel Bay offers a special winter retreat, from its friendly, welcoming team, cosy communal spaces with open fires, to their unrivalled views of the unspoilt coastline. Take a pause from the everyday business of life, and immerse yourself in their unique location. Reconnect with nature, ramble along the coast path, and come away feeling revitalised from this wonderful winter retreat.

From now until April, Housel Bay are offering some special direct offers, so we can make the most of this magical season. From free night stays, so you have more time to make the most of all the winter activities at the Lizard, to bubbles on arrival and credit available at their restaurants to make a weekend stay all the more special. Visit their website, houselbay.com and sign up to their newsletters to find out more.

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Feature in Coast Path Magazine