With spectacular views over the small fishing village of Port Isaac and out to sea, Sweet William is a dreamy pad for romantic couples seeking a blissful seaside sojourn. A former fisherman's cottage, the 200-year old home has today been lovingly restored by its owner to become a haven of luxury, offering guests sigh-inducing views, sumptuous interiors, and quiet escapism. If you can bear to drag yourself away, slip into your sandals and head down to the bustling village harbour, made famous by Doc Martin and the shanty singing group Fisherman's Friends. With its shops, galleries, and world-class restaurants to sample, it never fails to surprise. Alternatively, pop in the car and head off to explore the wild beauty of the north Cornish coast and beyond - whatever you decide, you'll be hard-pushed to find a more quintessential seaside-lovers' escape.
Setting
Beside Sweet William, you will find Mount Pleasant, set ideally next to one another to cater for parties of four, whilst offering perfect privacy when the retreats are booked separately. You can view Mount Pleasant here or call us for more information.
Living
Super-cosy, the pretty sitting room is serene and welcoming, with its original pale wooden panelling and beamed ceiling, and of course the beautiful sea view! Lounge on the voluptuous velvet sofa, catch up on your favourite box set or film on the Smart TV, or simply curl up on one of the leather occasional chairs with a good book and a glass of your favourite tipple. You'll find a Bose Bluetooth speaker to soundtrack your holiday playlist. We just love the vintage pieces within the room, making it a characterful, peaceful spot, whether you're tucked away on blustery winter days or enjoying the warm summer sea breeze floating through the window on balmy summer afternoons.
Please note, with all the charm of a two-hundred year old fisherman's cottage, you'll find quirky low ceilings and traditional features such as the original stairs which are steep in places.
Eating
The airy kitchen and dining area are a joy - from the budding chef to the trained professional, you'll find everything you need to conjure romantic meals for you and your loved one. With an electric induction hob, fan oven and grill, dishwasher, Nespresso coffee machine and all the other essentials you might need, why not try your hand at some local seafood, bought straight off the boat?
There's a round table that seats four as well as a two seater sofa, so plenty of space, with a fire to keep things extra cosy.
A washing machine is available, shared with the owner's other property next door.
Sleeping
The light, airy bedroom lies tucked away upstairs. With three dual-aspect windows, wooden floors painted white and pale colours throughout accented with golden yellow tones, this is a beautifully cheerful room. We adore the bed knobs-and-broomsticks king size bed, swathed in luxurious linens, throws and cushions - the perfect retreat at the end of the day. Fall asleep to the sound of the sea and wake up to the call of seagulls, but don't rush to get up - after all, holidays are all about luxurious lie ins!
Nestled into the eaves of this characterful cottage, please note that the bedroom ceilings are low at Sweet William.
Bathing
The pretty bathroom boasts a deep free-standing bath with a shower overhead, so whether you adore long soaks or want a quick freshen up, you're covered. There's a heated rail to keep towels warm and fluffy too. We just love the dark wooden floorboards, marble sink and of course those stunning sea views!
Outdoor space
To the front of Sweet William there's a sunny lawn, complete with table and chairs for a spot of alfresco dining. While away the hours gazing at fishing boats pootle in and out of the harbour and luxuriate under the summer sun, feeling the soft sea air tousle your hair. We couldn't think of anything nicer!
Babies and children
Babes-in-arms are welcome at Sweet William - call the office to book and please bring along your own baby equipment.
Dogs
One well-behaved dog is most welcome at Sweet William. Please note, there is an additional fee per dog, per week or short break.
WiFi
Sweet William has WiFi, so if you need to stay in touch with the outside world you can.
Parking
There's a public pay and display car park 500yds away. Please bear in mind the walk includes steep inclines, with this in mind we would advise using luggage with wheels for ease. You'll be greeted by mesmerising harbour views following your walk to the cottage, ocean vistas well worth wandering for!
Exploring
Set within such beautiful countryside, there's plenty to do in and around Port Isaac. From cliff top walks (Port Isaac to Port Gaverne is lovely and less than two miles), and strolling around the local galleries and shops to fishing trips from the harbour (during the summer season) and relaxing on nearby beaches such as Polzeath and Daymer Bay, you'll not want for things to do. You can also step out on to the fantastic Camel Trail or South West Coast path - perfect for walking and cycling. Just make sure to end in one of the cafes or tea rooms for a proper Cornish afternoon tea. Head east and you'll find beautiful Trebarwith Strand, iconic Tintagel and fascinating Boscastle. Head west and you have glorious Polzeath, Rock, Padstow and the Camel Estuary to explore. Take a trip inland and discover mysterious Dartmoor and see why this wild place has inspired the likes of Daphne Du Maurier and Winston Graham. The possibilities are endless!
Eating out
For such a small village there are a surprising number of fantastic places to eat, including two Nathan Outlaw restaurants - Outlaw's Fish Kitchen and two Michelin starred Restaurant Nathan Outlaw (book as soon as you can in advance as it is so popular!). There are lots of other top-notch eateries such as The Mote and the 17th century Port Gaverne Restaurant. For something a little more laid back, head to The Golden Lion, The Krab Pot or The Chapel Cafe or for something to munch on the move, check out May Contain Nuts for a scrummy pasty. Ultimately seafood is very much the name of the game here, and you'll be spoilt for choice with at least twenty eateries around and about.