Every February we try to steal a few days away. It feels like a hinge in the year — still winter, but with spring close enough to imagine. Off-season trips to the coast are particularly appealing: the beaches are quieter and the pace is gentler. Recently we spent a long weekend in Cornwall at The Loft, a charming hillside apartment overlooking Mawgan Porth beach.
The Loft sits next to The Lodge and adjoins Seavista, a friendly bed and breakfast run by owners Kate and Oz. The apartment is self-contained and thoughtfully equipped for a comfortable, upscale stay. Travelling with our dog Albert, we find holiday apartments easier than hotels or guest houses, and The Loft proved to be a particularly special base for a short break.
Here’s what stood out during our stay.
The Interiors
Light is the defining feature of the apartment. Large windows and skylights draw in daylight and the elevated position gives pleasant sea glimpses. The space felt roomier than we expected: an open-plan kitchen and dining area flows into a comfortable lounge with plenty of seating, making it easy to relax and spread out.
The palette is calm and neutral, with soft pastels and pale wood floors. Mid-century and upcycled pieces sit alongside contemporary furnishings, creating a relaxed, lived-in look. Small luxuries — fluffy bathrobes, toiletries from Neal’s Yard, and modern conveniences like Wi‑Fi, a Nespresso machine and a large TV — make it feel indulgent without being fussy.
There are two bedrooms: a generous master and a slightly smaller twin room, both comfortable and airy. In addition to the master en suite, a larger family bathroom provides convenience for groups or families.
The overall impression is of an airy, uncluttered home that balances style and comfort — perfect for a restorative short break.
The master en suite is bright and well appointed, and the smaller family bathroom offers design ideas if you’re planning your own renovation. Little details, such as a charming wall mirror, add personality without clutter.
The Location
This part of Cornwall has seen a cluster of high-quality hotels and restaurants for good reason: the coastline is dramatic and beautiful. The Loft benefits from being close to popular spots such as Watergate Bay and The Scarlet, yet it still feels peaceful and accessible. It’s also a short taxi ride from the local airport, which makes it easy to reach for a weekend away if you prefer to fly rather than drive.
A haven for foodies
We were welcomed with a generous hamper that included homemade flapjacks, lemon drizzle cake, a bottle of prosecco and other basics — a lovely start after a long drive. We planned to eat out on our first night but felt so comfortable that we stayed in, enjoyed the hamper and made simple brunches at the apartment.
The kitchen is well equipped, far beyond the minimal setups you sometimes find in holiday rentals. You’ll find a Smeg fridge, a sizable range cooker, plenty of cookware and tableware, and a selection of store-cupboard essentials for guests. It’s suited to everything from a quick breakfast to a more elaborate dinner party.
If you prefer not to cook, guests can enjoy breakfast at the neighbouring B&B. The veggie breakfast — with honey-roast halloumi and homemade baked beans — was a highlight of our trip. There are numerous options, from lighter choices like chia pudding and green juice to indulgent dishes such as waffles and French toast. Kate and Oz clearly value quality, using organic and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, and their breakfasts alone make the place worth seeking out.
In-Room Treatments
Guests at The Loft and The Lodge can book in-room therapies. Janey from Maya Holistic offers treatments such as reflexology, aromatherapy and Indian head massage, using certified organic products. I tried a hot poultice massage — a Thai herbal compress warmed to release oils and aromas, then applied to relax muscles and ease tension. The treatment was deeply soothing and left my skin feeling soft and refreshed. It’s a lovely addition for anyone wanting a restorative element to their break.
Out & About
We spent a lot of time at Mawgan Porth beach, which is dog-friendly year‑round, and walked the coastal path to Bedruthan Steps — a dramatic stretch of shoreline with towering rock formations. The area is popular with surfers, and the owners are happy to recommend local surf schools for those wanting to try it out. For food enthusiasts, Rick Stein’s cookery school in Padstow is within easy reach.
The coastline here invites slow exploration, so you can happily spend days wandering locally rather than racing between attractions. Padstow and Newquay are a short drive away for shopping or dining, and a small local shop in Mawgan Porth covers essentials. We returned home with Cornish cheese and other treats purchased from nearby producers.
The Loft suits couples perfectly but it would also comfortably accommodate a family of four. If you’re travelling with a larger group, the neighbouring Lodge — which features a wood burner and hot tub — is worth considering. Overall, the properties offer a peaceful escape where you can choose to be active or delightfully idle.
The Lodge and The Loft, Mawgan Porth, Newquay, Cornwall, TR8 4AL. From £160 per night (minimum two-night stay).
More information and booking at the property website.
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Thanks to Kate and Oz for their warm hospitality. We only feature places we genuinely love and would recommend.
All images: Design Hunter