This apartment for two makes the perfect Cornish bolthole for surfing, romance — or simply exploring the area. It’s in the front row of beachside properties at Gwithian Towans and has uninterrupted views of St Ives Bay from its sunny terrace.
Aficionados of this location will know that Gwithian is one of Cornwall’s best stretches of surf beach — with literally miles of clean sand, rockpools and sand dunes set in a beautiful unspoilt area. Sunset Surf is the stylish cafe and surf shop by the beach, and The Bolthole is accommodated in the same building. As part of your rental you have free surf board hire, and discounted food and drink at the café!
Inside The Bolthole
Stepping into The Bolthole you are greeted by a fresh and carefree interior with a décor of neutral greys and browns set against crisp white walls and ceilings for a chilled holiday atmosphere. You will find painted wooden floor-boards, textured rugs, carpets and throws, and charming artworks.
The accommodation is on two floors. Downstairs you will find the living and dining room, kitchen and bathroom. The living room is sunny and comfortable and opens on to the terrace, which looks out over the bay. The living space is furnished with a comfy leather sofa and armchair, oak sideboard and dining furniture, and pictures by a local artist adorn the walls. The kitchen is generous, with ample work surfaces, modern appliances and lots of equipment and utensils. A clean, modern bathroom, with shower over bath, and a large storage area for beach-gear completes the downstairs. Upstairs you’ll find a spacious bedroom, with king-sized bed, and stunning views of the bay and lighthouse from two large eye-level velux windows.
The terrace, beach and beyond…
Stepping out of the living room to the terrace you’ll find two elegant upholstered sun loungers, a gas barbecue and al fresco dining table seating four (have some friends over!). A hop-and-skip away are the ‘Towans’ (the local word for sand dunes) which stretch for miles — northwards through Gwithian nature reserve towards Godrevy island and southwards all the way to Hayle, three miles away. And of course the spectacular Gwithian beach, which faces west across the bay towards St Ives offers something for everyone. With lifeguards in the holiday seasons, gently sloping sands, and myriad rock-pools and sand-pools it’s a great family beach. But it’s also a surfing mecca, popular for kite-surfers and SUPs (or paddleboards) and you can book surf or SUP lessons right next door at Sunset Surf.
Things we love…
Being adjacent to the cafe might not suit everyone — but it’s remarkably unobtrusive. The cafe isn’t open in the evenings and by day, apart from the murmur of conversation next door, it’s actually a real bonus. For one thing you can enjoy their mouth-watering range of breakfasts, lunches and light bites, all with a special 10% discount just for you (avoid cooking entirely if you want) — and also they’ll let you use surfboards and wetsuits free of charge, so you have the latest gear and less to pack. Sitting on the terrace at The Bolthole, with a glass of chilled local craft lager or your favourite gin at the end of a day on the beach has to be one of Cornwall’s greatest pleasures — whether you are a hardened surfer, or simply love to stroll by the sea.
Accessibility
Please note that The Bolthole is accessed through the café’s terrace and is up small steps.
