Linda, Staying at Shearwater
The view from Shearwater.
Linda
The picturesque creekside hamlet of Port Navas is one of Cornwall’s best-kept secrets. At the water’s edge, you’ll discover Shearwater, a quintessential two-bedroom cottage set upon the quayside. Shearwater has a way of transporting guests to a different place in time, where the pace of the modern world becomes one of carefree leisure and quiet tranquillity. Your stay at Shearwater will be set to a gentle soundtrack of water lapping on the quay, wind softly rustling through trees, and the sweet murmurings of wildlife.
The bench outside the property offers a perfect vantage point to observe the various residents of Port Navas. Watch as the neighbourhood kingfisher darts into the water, or spot the family of egrets pacing the shoreline at the turning of the tide. And you never know, you might even see a few locals out rowing – if you sit for long enough.
Within the cottage, you will find everything you need to ensure your stay is spent in comfort, including a wood burner to make for a real country escape. The joy of a holiday lie-in reaches new heights with views over the creek from the master bedroom. Although at daybreak you might just find yourself leaping out of bed, the draw of the creekside at sunrise simply too alluring to miss. A private quay and your own mooring provides a safe harbour after bucolic boat rides on the Helford, where you can haul up on sandy beaches along mystical creeks, or lay anchor in a sheltered cove to enjoy a picnic on the water.
This is where it all began for Cornish Holiday Cottages. The idyll of Shearwater made it the holiday home of our Grandmother and founder, Ruth Austen – and she certainly knew a thing or two about what makes a cottage truly special.
Entrance to the cottage through a stable door. Fridge/freezer, integrated electric oven with hob and extractor fan, washing machine, slimline dishwasher and dining table with seating for four.
With woodburner, sofa and two arm chairs, plus TV, DVD player and views of the creek.
With stunning views of the creek, king size bed (5ft), hand basin, chest of drawers and clothes hanging space.
Twin single beds, bedside tables, lamps and wardrobe. View of back garden.
With a bath and shower over, WC, basin and heated towel rail.
There is parking for one medium sized car.
Just outside the kitchen door is a covered well, then 20 steps with hand rails leading up to the raised garden. A real suntrap with one grassy level and one higher, that is paved with a wooden bench and parasol.
There are a few (private) steps down to Shearwater’s quay just in front of the cottage. Please check the tide times for boat access.
The peace of Port Navas is renowned along the river, yet you’ll find the area reveals a wonderful vibrance and has so much to see and do. From exploring the beautiful subtropical gardens of Glendurgan and Trebah, to marvelling at the Seal Sanctuary at Gweek – the Helford holds many delights and surprises. Just across the river is Frenchman’s Creek, which remains as magical today as it was when immortalised by Daphne Du Maurier’s famous romantic tale.
Hop onto a ferry from Helford Passage over to Helford village, where the Shipwrights Arms awaits with open doors and a warm fire. Or from Falmouth (7 miles from Port Navas), take a passenger boat to St Mawes or Truro, or while away a day exploring the independent shops, cafés and restaurants that make this harbourside town so appealing.
A change of pace from the peace and quiet of genteel Port Navas is easily reached by car, with the dramatic, undulating coastline of the Lizard Peninsula waiting to be explored. The North Coast of Cornwall – famed for windswept cliffs and wide sandy beaches – is also only an hour’s drive away.
A stone’s throw from the cottage and just along the creek is the famed restaurant at Port Navas Yacht Club. You’ll want to book ahead to enjoy the atmosphere, as it’s very small – and always very popular.
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The view from Shearwater.
Linda