Tag: Valentine’s Day
Couples Activities in Cornwall
January 20th, 2020
Whether you’re planning a Valentine’s Day celebration or simply want a romantic getaway to spend time with your partner, Cornwall offers such a diverse range of activities that it is the perfect destination for couples.
Regardless of whether your dream time together is spent relaxing in nature as you stroll through woodlands and coastlines, or if you’d rather a more action-packed adventure, Cornwall has it all covered. We take a look at some of the exciting activities you can enjoy together as a couple in Cornwall.
Take a Boat Trip
As a coastal county, Cornwall isn’t short on boats – there are plenty of places for you to head for a boat trip of your choosing. From ferry rides to St Mawes, where you can wander The Roseland coastline, to paddling yourself around Falmouth Harbour in a kayak, there’s a boating activity for all.
See Sea Life
If you love marine life, then head to Falmouth or Padstow to embark on a sea safari, where you may spot seals, dolphins and an abundance of sea birds!
Visit a Garden
Walking through nature and admiring the beautiful blooms is a perfect romantic activity for couples, and luckily, Cornwall has many gorgeous gardens to choose from. Some of the standout spots include the Lost Gardens of Heligan, Trebah, Glendurgan and Trelissick.
Tasty Treats Await
A bonus with visiting these gardens is that most are accompanied by a wonderful café or restaurant, allowing you to have a lovely meal together after exploring the estates.
Go Stargazing
With moorland and expanses of countryside throughout Cornwall, there are plenty of places away from the bright lights of towns and cities where you can head to gaze at the stars.
Make it More Romantic
Bring along a picnic full of romantic treats, such as Champagne and chocolates, and enjoy the atmospheric night’s sky. It may be a little chilly out when it’s dark, so head back to your hot tub cottages in Cornwall to warm up!
Ice Skating
If you’re heading to Cornwall during the winter months or for Valentine’s Day, then a visit to the Eden Project is a must, as they have their ice rink open until the end of February.
As well as getting to enjoy the wonders of the tropical biomes, you’ll get to spend great time together with your partner as you hit the rink and skate around together.
Enjoy a Drink with a Great View
Whether you fancy a pint or a warming cup of hot chocolate, there are plenty of cosy pubs and seaside cafes that offer a delightful drink accompanied by incredible views of the stunning Cornish countryside, rivers and coastline.
Try Local Nibbles
Many such places will also offer a delicious range of foods created using locally sourced produce.
Take a Stroll Along the Beach
There are over 300 beaches in Cornwall, so you and your partner will have plenty of choice when it comes to finding a spot along the Cornish coastline to visit. Stroll along beaches with vast stretches of golden sand as the sun rises or sets for a romantic moment or discover a secret cove together as you explore the coastline.
Visit a Romantic Location
As well as beaches, there are plenty of other romantic locations in Cornwall that you can visit. If you’re a fan of Poldark, then why not follow in the footsteps of Ross and Demelza, heading to filming locations, such as Porthgwarra Cove, to see where the stunning scenes were created.
Other romantic spots to visit could include the fairytale-like waterfalls of St Nectan’s Glen, the famous Bedruthan Steps and the iconic landmark of St Michael’s Mount!
If you’re heading to Cornwall with your partner and are thinking about proposing, then check out these top spots to propose in Cornwall!
How to Spend Valentine’s Day in Cornwall
January 31st, 2019
Valentine’s Day is a day full of romance and love, allowing you to express to those closest to you how much they mean to you. We believe that Cornwall is one of the most romantic locations in the country, so spending your Valentine’s Day in this beautiful area is the perfect way to show your love. Make the most of your time together by enjoying some romantic activities, indulging in local treats and taking the opportunity to relax. To help you have the dream Valentine’s Day, we have put together a few ideas on how to spend the day.
Best Restaurants For A Romantic Dinner In Cornwall
January 27th, 2019
Valentine’s Day is just a couple of weeks away, so now is the time to organise a wonderful celebration of love for your partner. It wouldn’t be Valentine’s Day without a fantastic, romantic dinner out, so we’ve rounded up some of the best places to go to for a delightful meal for two in Cornwall. A romantic evening will be sure to make you fall more in love with each other, as well as with Cornwall itself! Remember to book ahead of time to ensure you have a table on this day of love!
Oliver’s, Falmouth
Falmouth, close to our luxury cottages, has many fantastic restaurants, as well as impressive seaside views, making it a lovely place to dine. One such restaurant, Oliver’s, prides itself on its high-quality seasonal menu using the best local produce and first-rate service. The chef creates exquisite food with flair and imagination, and the whole range of mouth-watering dishes are some of the best in Cornwall. The friendly atmosphere and staff will make your dining experience extra special.
Kota, Porthleven
The Cornish-Asian style restaurant is located right on Porthleven’s harbour, so you can dine with gorgeous views. Kota means shellfish in Maori, and the head chef and owner Jude is a New Zealander who has won awards for his restaurants in Auckland and London, before coming to Cornwall. The eatery has also won awards including two AA rosettes and a Bib Gourmand from The Michelin Guide. This place, though a little out of the way for staying near Falmouth, is well worth the journey for it is an extra special place to treat your loved one to a exquisite meal out.
The Wheelhouse, Falmouth
Down a quiet side street, The Wheel House is Falmouth’s best-kept secret. A chalkboard points the way and you enter through a wooden door. The decor is charming, with mismatched furniture, exposed brickwork and antique mirrors and furnishings. The atmosphere is welcoming and cosy, making it the perfect place to head for an intimate dining experience. It is said that The Wheelhouse is the best place to get crab and shellfish in west Cornwall.
Ben’s Cornish Kitchen, Marazion
Head chef Ben Prior of Cornish Kitchen has 20 years of catering experience and has built up a team of people who are just as passionate about great food, wine and service as he is. This restaurant serves creative dishes with seasonal and local produce. The fresh and delicious home-cooked food is made all the more better with a view of picturesque St Michael’s Mount in the background.
The Waymarker, Falmouth
First opened in 2009, The Waymarker is famous for its Sunday roast and the current menu includes some classic Brasserie dinners, light lunches and mouth-watering cakes. This restaurant provides for everyone’s tastes, and its rural location makes it the ideal place for a romantic meal for two. The Waymarker has also been crowned as a cream tea champion, so if you are planning an extra special cream tea lunch rather than a romantic dinner, this is the place to go.
The beauty of Cornwall’s landscapes and its rich history create a very romantic setting, making this the perfect place to head for a Valentine’s Day getaway. Our Cornwall short breaks are ideal for a weekend, or even mid-week, break, allowing you a couple of days to relax and enjoy the stunning Cornish countryside.
How to Spend a Romantic Valentine’s Day in Cornwall
February 12th, 2018
What better way to celebrate your love than to embark on a romantic getaway with luxurious short breaks in Cornwall. Getting a change of scenery and escaping the busy routine of your everyday life can be a great relationship booster and you’ll leave feeling refreshed and even more in love! And speaking of scenery changes, the stunning scenic views in Cornwall are unparalleled, and are sure to enhance your passionate weekend away. Make the most of your time together, and indulge in some of the local treats, with some of the best chefs right on your doorstep. There is an abundance of exciting and romantic activities to enjoy while away, so here are some of our favourites:
Afternoon Tea
Scones are a Cornish staple. No trip to the county would be complete without this tasty bite, smothered in strawberry jam and then a generous dollop of Cornish clotted cream added (the Cornish way!). Indulging in a traditonal cream tea for two is a delightful way to spend the day, and will give you and your partner a chance to relax and have a chat about the things you normally don’t get a chance to.
Ice Skating at the Eden Project
Make the most of the last few days of the Eden Project’s ice rink before it says goodbye until next winter. The rink will be removed on the 18th February, giving you enough time to enjoy it for a Valentine’s Day bonding activity. Ice skating is the perfect Valentine’s Day choice as not only is there a hint of romance about the sport, but also most people cannot make it around the rink without having to cling on to their partner, making it an ideal choice for fans of holding hands!!
Be in Nature
There’s something about nature that is intrinsically romantic. Whether it is the beautiful blooms or the clear blue skies that make you feel love, getting out and about in nature is a great way to spend your Valentine’s Day. While there are many coastal paths and walking routes showing you the best of Cornwall, there are also some great gardens, such as the Lost Gardens of Heligan and Trelissick Garden, which are fantastic to explore. Plus, most gardens will have a tearoom, so you can enjoy a light lunch together while taking in the delightful views.
Spend the Evening in a Cosy Pub
There are plenty of pubs throughout Cornwall, but while things may be heating up for Valentine’s Day, the wintery February weather is still sending chills, so choosing somewhere cosy is key. With a log burner, and comfy leather armchairs to curl up in, The Rising Sun in Truro provides a toasty spot to sit back and snuggle up with a pint.
Beach Stroll
With striking coastline surrounding most of the county, there certainly isn’t a shortage of beaches for you to choose from., With stretches of soft golden sand and secret coves to explore, there are plenty of spots to enjoy a romantic stroll. Head to the clifftops to watch the sun set (or rise, if you’re into early mornings), and take in those incredible panoramic views. For a bit of quiet, look for the hidden coves and secret beaches for a more intimate experience.
Tintagel Castle
There are plenty of castles and intriguing properties throughout Cornwall, but Tintagel Castle is by far one of the most stunning. Said to be the birth place of King Arthur, there is certainly love and magic in the air at this historic site. Sat on the dramatic Northern coastline, you are sure to be inspired by its beauty.
What are your Valentine’s Day plans? Are there any other places in Cornwall which are great to go to for a romantic day? Let us know in the comments!
Perfect Proposal Spots in Cornwall
January 19th, 2018
With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, many romantics are gearing up to pop the big question. As this is such a big step, you want this to be a moment to remember, so what better way than to propose in the beautiful scenic landscapes of Cornwall?! We run through some of the most perfect proposal spots in Cornwall:
Minack Theatre
Overlooking the stunning golden sand and turquoise waves of Porthcurno beach, you will have unparalleled panaromic views of the across the coast. Visit in the day for the incredible views, or sit under the stars during the evening performances for a truly romantic experience.
Men-An-Tol
Why not give your partner a ring whilst stood next to this slightly bigger ring made of stone!? Men-An-Tol is a small formation of standing stones found in Cornwall on the Penwith peninsula. Some people consider it to be a great proposal spot due to the magical properties it is said to have. According to local folklore, if you can squeeze through the hole it will ensure fertility!
Kynance Cove
Set in the breath-takingly beautiful Lizard peninsula, the cove has been visited by many a famous face, and was even enjoyed by Queen Victoria. It has also featured frequently in the BBC series Poldark. You’ll soon see why it is so well liked, with the secluded beach making an idyllic spot complete with a white sandy stretch framed by the deep azure waters and stunning 200ft cliffs. After asking the big question, begin your adventure together by embarking on the two-mile walk to the equally impressive Lizard Point!
Eden Project
What would be better than asking your partner to marry you in an exotic rainforest, without having to jet off to the other side of the world!? The tropical biomes of the Eden Project provide the perfect proposal location, with so many hidden away private spots. Alternatively, the Mediterranean biome presents a more relaxed opportunity to get down on one knee. Either way, the excitement and exotic nature of the Eden Project will truly reflect the incredible adventure you and your loved one are about to embark on!
Lost Gardens of Heligan
Being out in nature can be one of the best ways to create the proposal of your dreams. The mystery of these gardens just exudes romance. Having been lost to brambles and ivy after the First World War, the magnificently restored area provides plenty of magical spots to pop the question; with sculptures, bamboo tunnels and gorgeous walkways aplenty!
St Mawes Castle
Cornwall has a rich history and heritage, with an abundance of castles lining its coastline. There are so many interesting sites throughout the county that would be perfect for a proposal, that it is hard to choose! One of our favourite heritage sites, however, is St Mawes Castle, boasting amazing views out over Falmouth Bay. This castle isn’t as well known as the popular tourist attraction of Pendennis Castle, meaning that it is likely to be a little quieter there! What’s more, you can even return to this spot for your wedding, as they host civil ceremonies!
Can you think of any other great spots to propose in Cornwall? Let us know where you would pick in our comments or via our social media channels! If you’re thinking of embarking on a romantic luxury Falmouth holiday, be sure to check out our guide to planning the perfect romantic break!
A Truro Artist Believes Her Art Can Make you Fall In Love
January 17th, 2018
With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, many people are starting to look for love, or perhaps even thinking of taking their relationship to the next level. If you need a little boost to take the next step, an artist located in Truro may have just the thing for you!
Lisa Harker, an artist who has recently opened her own gallery in the heart of Truro city centre, Lisa Harker Quirky Art, claims that her unique style of painting leads to people finding love. The love-creating magic of her artwork is so intense, in fact, that four marriages are said to be credited to her pieces! While the relationship boosting effects were not quite what she was anticipating when she turned her passion for art into a full-time career, she has certainly embraced the positive effects, incorporating themes of love into her pieces.
The unintended effects began taking place after Lisa gifted certain pieces of artwork to her friends, who all subsequently reported positive changes in their lives shortly after, from finding new love to career promotions. Speaking of her artwork, Lisa states that her “paintings just have a habit of making people fall in love”.
Because of this, people have started paying visits to her gallery in Pydar Mews in Truro, specifically for help finding them a soul mate. Lisa says that after she meets these individuals, they often stay in touch and keep her updated on their lives, letting her know when “someone new has come into their life or that they are getting married”.
Others make the trip to discover self-love, with one woman looking to learn to love herself again after leaving an abusive relationship. She states that the artwork produced by Lisa aided her in regaining strength and self-worth.
With this newfound skill of artistically influenced matchmaking, Lisa sometimes considers it to be a “big responsibility”. She stresses that, although there have been many happy endings, she cannot promise that anything will happen because of her artwork. Instead, the artist recommends that her work should be used as a reminder to be more open, and that this in turn can lead to finding your Prince (or Princess) Charming!
Lisa also offers commissioned work for those seeking love, where she meets with the romantic hopeful and helps them to work out what they want and who they are in order to transform these feelings into the perfect piece of art, in the hope that it will bring them love. Lisa says that the talk helps them to figure out what they want, and will allow them to be more open to opportunities. The painting then acts as the push many need to get out there and find love, as it will hang proudly on your wall, constantly reminding and reinforcing all the goals and desires discussed in your chat.
If you are looking to take the next step in your relationship, why not take a romantic Cornwall short breaks to visit Truro and see if you are inspired by the loved-up artwork!
10 simple ways to show your love on Valentines Day
February 12th, 2015
Coming to stay in 5 star cottages in Cornwall should be the ultimate gesture for your love in our opinion, slightly biased as it may be. But what about if you are wanting to offer a few simple ways to be romantic too? We’ve got just the thing for you. Some are perfect for your visit to Cornwall on a romantic break, and some you can use for when you’re not here. The choice is yours. Share the love courtesy of us here at The Valley Cottages.
