by Claire Corbett inProperties

40 Years Visiting Calamansac Estate

Peter's story
Sometimes when you return somewhere where you’ve experienced an emotional connection, it can feel in part as though you’re coming home. This can arise from creating relationships with the locals, or from returning to places we’ve been as a child, as these memories create a strong nostalgic connection. 

For one of our returning guests, Peter, it is the pull of the Helford River and the nostalgia of repeat family trips that still brings him back to Calamansac Estate, 40 years after his first visit. 

His description of the property is rich and romantic. His memories of times spent at Calamansac are numerous and happy. And his list of favourite local eateries walks and things to do come in abundance. We conversed with Peter to find out more about his experience at the Calamansac Estate and discover the motivations behind repeat returns. 

The Calamansac Estate is a collection of three gorgeous holiday homes set within fifty acres of magical meadow garden and woodland which forms the western headland of Port Navas Creek. 

Sleeping up to 27 people, the East and West Wing of the property are connected by a vast, open vaulted playroom and Calamansac Sail Loft is a luxury, universally accessible, holiday home set a little further away. At Calamansac Estate, guest comfort is paramount, the space is boundless and the setting is idyllic. All three properties are dog friendly and the location is absolute heaven for four-legged friends. 

Thank you for finding a moment to speak with us about your stays at Calamansac, Peter. To begin we wondered what it was that first drew you to Calamansac Estate?

Several doctors from St Mary’s Hospital in London and their families regularly visited Cornwall over Easter on the occasion of the St Mary’s Easter Rugby tour – one of the oldest established rugby tours in the UK. Many of us had previously played on the tour when we were students. In 1981 one of our group discovered Calamansac with its fabulous position, wonderful views and outstanding gardens and woodland, and of course, the Helford River. 

Over many years we visited annually over Easter taking over two or sometimes three of the cottages. Many of our children – then in their early childhood – remember the Easter bunny hunts for chocolate treasures hidden all over the peninsular and even down in Port Navas in the old former stores and the Yacht Club. In the late 90s, Calamansac visits were replaced by skiing holidays for most of us but we returned 4 years ago to find that the cottage has been beautifully restored and refurbished. Our kids had grown up but joined us for the holiday and this year our first grandchild was brought down by my daughter and son-in-law. This will be the 4th generation of our family to come to Calamansac. 

How would you describe Calamansac Estate to someone who’s not stayed before?

One of the most outstandingly beautiful estates in England. Perfect for accommodation, families, dogs, country walks, sailing, bird watching, and lots more.

How do you like to spend your time at Calamansac Estate?

Walks around the estate, the Cornwall coastal path, the beaches, a variety of excellent pubs and restaurants, Trebah Gardens, Flambards for children and other family attractions. 

What are some of your fondest memories here and in the local area?

The wonderful displays of azaleas, camellias, rhododendrons and many other species of plants. The bird song in the morning, the peace and quiet, the Yacht Club and Trengilly Wartha Inn. Bob and Sonya – a key part of the establishment and there since we first visited 40 years ago, have also always been delightful.

Do you have any favourite places to eat nearby?

Trengilly Wartha is absolutely fabulous, The Ship Inn at Porthleven, The Halzephron Inn in Helston, Slice of Cornwall near Constatine, plus the multiple outstanding places in Falmouth.

Have you discovered any enjoyable local walks?

All the Estate walks and the coastal path from Helford Passage to Durgan. 

What has your experience been like with Cornish Holiday Cottages?

From the days of dear Ruth Austen and her Grandaughter Emily and the Cornish Holiday Cottages team, they have always been fabulous, accommodating and a delight to deal with.

The East Wing, West Wing and Sail Loft can sleep 27 collectively, although if you want to be in real luxury, you could limit these numbers to thirteen to allow for every individual to have a room to themselves.

The properties have been well thought out for large groups with spacious, comfortable sitting rooms and custom-built sofas.

The East Wing has private access, parking and sole use of the large playroom. French windows open onto the large, slate terrace with lovely river views. Beyond the terrace is the vast lawn suitable for ball games.

Calamansac is a private 50-acre estate of meadow garden and ancient woodland which forms the western headland of Port Navas Creek and overlooks the Helford River.

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