Stretch your legs and fill your lungs with the heady scents of salty air at the jaw-dropping Trebarwith Strand. Just over 2 miles from Tintagel on Cornwall’s wild and rugged north coast, the golden body and sapphire shawl of this sandy beach are a sight for sore eyes and beckon for lazy mornings and hazy afternoons. 

All but disappearing at high tide, the sea recedes at low tide to reveal a mile-long and half-a-mile-wide stretch at Trebarwith Strand. Keep an eye on the clock and go for an agenda-free wander; overlooked by Gull Rock out at sea on one side and followed by towering, cave-studded cliffs on the other, there will be plenty to vie for your attention. 

Now owned by the National Trust, the beach isn’t only a haven for two-legged visitors and welcomes dogs 365 days of the year – great news for all the family. Make use of the nearby facilities and relish salt-kissed days spent with your loved ones at this enchanting beach, long-admired by artists and film-makers hoping to capture a piece of its unique beauty.

Nothing works up an appetite like a day on the beach; fortunately, there are two great eateries within a pebble’s throw of Trebarwith Strand, both of which welcome dogs. First up, the Strand Café sits above the beach and invites visitors to rest up and replenish with a thoughtfully compiled menu of locally-spun dishes. When the sun is in full bloom, sit outside on the terrace and enjoy your savoury snacks, sweet treats or ice-topped beverage and let the good vibes wash over in waves.  

Also overlooking the beach, the Port William Inn is a fantastic pub and restaurant that is well-known for its high-quality food and service. Pour over the menu and take in the views; in summer you can take your meal al fresco whilst in winter the restaurant’s wood burner casts a deliciously warming glow over the dining area. If you fancy a complete change of scene, the legend-shrouded Tintagel is only 2 miles from Trebarwith Strand and home to a number of eateries worthy of your attention.

Whether you’re arriving on foot via the rambling South West Coast Path or cruising up in your car, there are ample parking facilities and easy access routes for that relaxed stroll down to the water’s edge. Keep an eye on the tides and make the most of the honey-coloured expanse at low tide, splashing in the water, exploring the sea caves and gazing into the rock pools around the beach. 

If you’ve satiated your beach-lust, why not explore neighbouring Tintagel? Easy to reach from your holiday cottage in Trebarwith Strand, a 2-mile drive will take you to this famous seaside village, shrouded in legend and folklore. Whilst at Tintagel, make time for the enchanting Tintagel Castle regally perched on the cliffs overlooking the sea and the famous Merin’s Cave. 

For completely contrasting scenery, the emerald depths of St Nectan’s Glen call to nature-lovers and peace-searchers, while just over 8 miles away, the picture-postcard Port Isaac awaits with a star-studded cast. Spend your days eating, exploring and enjoying all that this beautiful area has to offer, before returning to your private luxury retreat.