new years

To make the most out of your luxury self catering holiday it is imperative that you fit in times to relax and kick back to enjoy your 5 star surroundings. On site within the Sail Lofts accommodation we run the Sail Lofts Ocean Studio offering a wide variety of treatments, including Elemis facials, Geleration manicures and pedicures and hot stone massages.

Our trained therapists are specialists when it comes to putting you at ease, just moments from your luxury 5 star self catering accommodation in Cornwall. Also make note that the therapists can collect your directly from your Sail Lofts apartment, so no more waiting around.

The top treatments from guests in the know include the Ocean Studio Absolute Spa Ritual, which involves a 2 hour treatment, where you can choose from a range of Elemis facials and combine it with the powerful, relaxing effects of a an Elemis deep tissue massage. Two hours of indulgence to leave you calm, cool and collected.

Or if you looking for just stress and tension busting the 60 minutes deep tissue massage on its own cannot be beaten for its ability to alleviate stress, ease aching muscles and revive the senses. The massage is customizable to suit all preference of pressure, with a dynamic blend of essential oils that are prescribed to target individual needs and reduce specific stress and muscle tension.

For those looking for a less passive form of relaxation why not head up to the top of St Ives and check out the Tempus Leisure sports facilities, their cardio studio has panoramic views of the entire St Ives bay, so whilst you are burning off those extra calories from the over indulged night before you can sit back and view the atmospheric ever changing landscape of the bay.

The sports facilities are fully air conditioned and come with a full sized pool, 64 station gym with cardiovascular equipment and resistance, dance studio for classes in yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates, Metafit, Zumba and Insanity.

The gym is open all year round and on weekdays is open between 6.30am – 10.00pm, and on the weekends from 7.00am – 4.30pm.

Katy x

Find out more about sports facilities in St Ives

Find out more about the Sail Lofts Ocean Studio

Autumn Walks in St Ives

Our idea of a perfect autumn afternoon is a long walk along the Cornish coast followed by a hearty lunch. Not only will you work up an appetite but you will see some of the most beautiful views in the country. We can’t think of a more relaxing way to enjoy your five star holiday in Cornwall. 

St Ives to Zennor

Be warned that the St Ives to Zennor coastal walk is no easy feat. It’s six miles long, taking approximately four hours and requires some clambering over rocks. Sensible footwear is a must! However if you’re up for the challenge you will reap the rewards. The coastline is breathtaking and the half way point at Seal Island makes a perfect break.

Once you arrive at Zennor why not stop off at The Tinner’s Arms for a much needed refuel? Lunch is served from 12 – 3pm daily with a great roast on Sundays. On a warm day you can sit out on the terrace to enjoy the views, and when it’s a little more windswept you will find comfort in the pub’s log fires, stone floors and low ceilings.

After enjoying the real Cornish ales you might find yourself energized and ready to take on the walk back to St Ives. If you feeling a little worn out you can take a shortcut via a sign-posted route across the fields or you could hop into a taxi. Luckily our luxury accommodation is situated at the end point of the walk so once you’re all worn out you can put your feet up and relax.

St Ives to Lelant

For those wanting less of a challenge the St Ives to Lelant coastal walk is much shorter with the route taking approximately two hours. Although there’s a large hill to climb at the half way point, you do have the option of stopping at Carbis Bay and getting the train back. This flexibility makes it great for all levels.

 

There’s a lot to take in on the walk to Lelant with the spectacular views of Lelant Estuary and Godrevy ahead as well as the chance to see St Uny Church and its atmospheric graveyards. While in Lelant why not try some lunch at Scarlet Wine’s Café The Vineyard Table? Enjoy their fresh Mediterranean dishes from 12 - 3pm and you can try any of the wines from their shop at your table for an additional charge of £5. If you’re too full after a sharing platter you can always hop on the train at Lelant Saltings which will take you straight back to St Ives.

Comfy clothes and sturdy shoes are a must for Cornish coastal paths but if you need help making your five star self catering holiday special please don’t hesitate to ask. We’re here to help! 

Onna x 

Autumn Activities: Gardens of Cornwall

With Autumn just around the corner we thought we’d share some of our favourite things to do when the weather cools down. Cornwall is known for its wonderful gardens. This is largely due to the mild climate which allows a wider range of subtropical plants to grow that can’t be seen anywhere else in the country. So when things get cold in everywhere else it stays wonderfully mild in St Ives and a five star visit to Cornwall isn’t complete without a trip to one of our many beautiful, botanical gardens...

The Lost Gardens of Heligan

Only a few miles out from the village of Pentewan lies the The Lost Gardens of Heligan, one of the most popular botanical gardens in the country. It’s definitely worth the trip from our five star self catering accommodation to see this mysterious two hundred acre estate. The manor was first built in the 1200’s although the gardens weren’t started until 1766. The estate was owned by the Tremayne family for more than 400 years but during the First World War when the workforce left for the front line the gardens began to fall into disrepair. The derelict gardens were then rediscovered by Tim Smit and John Willis after the hurricane of 1990, and slowly but surely this vast estate has been restored. With subtropical jungles, ancient woodlands, Victorian Productive gardens and most strikingly the iconic Heligan sculptures, this is one of the most unique and exciting gardens in the United Kingdom. There’s so much to see that we’d recommend making a day of it, you don’t want to miss out!

 

Trengwainton Garden

If you’re looking for something a little nearer to our luxury apartments Trengwainton is a beautiful twenty five acre garden in Madron near Penzance. It’s only a thirty minute drive from our holiday cottages in St Ives so it’s perfect if you only have a few hours. Full of winding wooded paths, exotic trees, giant ferns and with a dedicated kitchen garden, this is horticultural heaven. Why not pack a picnic, enjoy it on the terrace that looks out onto breathtaking views of the bay and soak up the autumn sunshine? Or treat yourself to a scone and a cup of coffee in the tea-rooms where they not only use local produce but also source ingredients from their own kitchen garden. You can’t get much fresher than that. 

The Sail Lofts concierge service is always on hand if you need travel advice or recommendations. Just pop in any day of the week except Sunday, we’re always here to help make your sure your five star holiday is the best it can be. 

Onna x 

A luxury guide to St Ives: part 1

When planning a luxury escape to a new destination it can be hard to know where to start. So to be sure that our guests do not miss out on the luxury that five star Cornwall has to offer we are going to make a regular feature listing our top spots in Cornwall for indulging… 

Dining can be a controversial topic, with most visitors to St Ives having their own personal preference, however from insider knowledge we know that two places come head and shoulders above the competition when planning a luxury feast in St Ives.

To start with Porthminster Beach Café, with its stunning location, multi award winning seafood restaurant, combined with it’s relaxed and friendly atmosphere, provides quintessential St Ives luxury, that no trip to St Ives would be complete without. The café specialises in Mediterranean and Asian seafood cuisine with sea view vistas. Our top tips for this hot spot would be to book early. We can place reservations on your behalf, or call directly and request a window seat.

Then there is the Porthmeor Beach Café, renowned for its laid back atmosphere, incredible view across Porthmeor Beach, along with the occasional chance of catching sightings of dolphins as you dine in the five star surroundings. Their tapas selection is revolutionary with tastes to suit all palates, and perfect for whether you fancy a light bite or a hearty lunch. Our top tip for the Porthmeor Beach Café is to book early and request a heated outdoor pod for the alfresco dining experience.

For luxury self catering in St Ives essentials you will need Scarlet Wines, conveniently located on the way in to St Ives on the roundabouts in Lelant, Scarlet Wines provide a continually evolving selection of hundreds of wines from around the world, craft beers, local ciders and first class spirits, served with excellent knowledge to aid in setting your five star break off in the right way. Or alternatively as a day trip, why not take the St Ives branch line to Lelant Saltings a short 10 minute trip where you can take in the St Ives bay’s spectacular scenery by rail, which conveniently drops you on to Scarlet Wines doorstop.

As a side note if any guests find themselves without mackerel pate or tasty tidbits, Norway Stores located just along the road from the Sail Lofts five star luxury apartments can be a life saver when you need just about anything. The friendly team is always on hand to help you out of a pickle (please excuse the pun)…

The Sail Lofts concierge service is on hand to aid in restaurant reservations, local knowledge and first class recommendations from Monday to Saturday every week of the year, so please make sure to pop by the office located in the central courtyard during your luxury self catering stay in St Ives, as we are always on hand and happy to help.

Katy x

See more St Ives restaurant recommendations...

The September Festival: An Autumn Art Class

September is the perfect time to visit St Ives, the streets are quieter, the weather is warm and the days are still long. Autumn in St Ives is also a magnet for artists, with its special quality of light, the ever changing skies and the beautiful ocean views. If you’re treating yourself to a relaxing five star self catering holiday we think an art class is the perfect way to unwind. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional there’s something for everyone. 

The St Ives School of Painting sits just down the road from our luxury self catering cottages and over looks the beautiful Porthmeor beach. It has long been an important historical, cultural and social mecca for the town ever since the school first opened in 1938. After becoming a charitable trust in 2000 and undergoing some much needed renovations the school has been given a new lease of life.

They offer a multitude of classes for all levels all year round including short workshops and weekender art courses with prices starting from £15. There’s even a drop in life drawing class. All abilities are welcome and all the materials are provided so you don’t need worry about to packing your paints to take on holiday. Although if you’ve got an artistic flair you’re welcome to bring along any of your favourite brushes or tools that you just can’t live without!

As well its popular art courses every year the school takes a leading role in the St Ives September Festival which runs from Saturday 12^th to Saturday 26^th  September. There are over 200 events including music, theatre, dance and art and with The St Ives School of Painting offering subsidised art workshops and special one off classes it’s the perfect time test your skills with a brush.

Whether you’re visiting our five star accommodation during the St Ives September Festival or just in the quiet of Autumn, we think an art class is an ideal way to relax and explore your creative side. There’s something so special about taking time out of your busy lives to just listen, learn and create. You never know, you might come home with something to frame. 

Onna x 

September in St Ives...

With so many things to see and do in St Ives in September, why not consider booking your out of season holiday now and view the town when its vibrant arts and music heritage comes alive with the St Ives September Festival running between Saturday 12th to Saturday 26th September…

With limited availability remaining, our luxury accommodation acts as a perfect base to view the town throughout the day and night, by being only a short stroll from the harbour front, bypassing all hills and putting you in amidst the action as the side streets and nooks play host to live musicians and artists alike.

To book an apartment for the festivities, or to find out more about our luxury St Ives accommodation call 01736 799175, alternatively please see availability below.

Katy x

Driftwood | sleeps 2

Laid-back and luxurious 5 star accommodation in St Ives for two with an open-plan living-kitchen-diner, double bedroom and family bathroom. Driftwood is a light and spacious apartment with plenty of space to relax.

Available Friday 18th September £879

Lighthouse | sleeps 2

A luxurious 5 star self catering hideaway with double aspect views across St Ives from the loft-style living-kitchen-diner on the top floor with a sumptuous bedroom and family bathroom below.

Available Friday 11^th September £879

Available Friday 18th September £879

Surf | sleeps 2

Compact and contemporary luxury self catering accommodation in St Ives with everything you need for a comfortable stay, perfect if you plan to get out and about exploring.

Available Friday 11th September £759

Sail Lofts Cottage | sleeps 5

The Sail Lofts Cottage is an idyllic fisherman's cottage in the heart of St Ives with a luxurious 5 star interior. This traditional cottage is moments from a number of beaches as well as being a stones throw from the harbour front.

Available Friday 11th September £1539

Beach | sleeps 6

Three bedrooms, two en-suites and a family bathroom along with wonderful spacious open plan living, make this a fine example of our luxury accommodation in St Ives.

Available Saturday 19^th September £1599 *6 nights

Available Friday 25th September £1589

Slipway | sleeps 6

Exquisite 5 star luxury accommodation in St Ives. With 3 ensuite bedrooms and a large kitchen-diner, Slipways piece de resistance is a large sunny sitting room complete with its own private balcony overlooking Porthmeor Beach. A private car parking space in our onsite garage is also included.

Available Friday 25th September £2159

a guide to Cornwall's Best Beaches...

St Ives is a pretty special place, and many of the guests at our luxury accommodation come back time and time again. If you caught up with our Guide to St Ives Beaches you’ll know we have plenty of beautiful beaches right here in St Ives. However, if you’re returning for a second visit there’s a few further afield that we think are worth the trip... 

Porthcurno

Porthcurno is one of the most breathtaking beaches in all of Cornwall. Just an hours drive from our holiday cottages it’s the perfect opportunity to pack a picnic and your bucket and spades and soak in the sun all day long. The water is so incredibly clear and bright turquoise that it looks more like the Caribbean than Cornwall. The beach is a family friendly but it’s a bit of a walk from the car park so it’s not the best for prams or wheelchairs.

Awards: Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence

Lifeguard Service: 10am-6pm between 19th May and 30th September.

Parking: Yes but it fills up quick in summer.

Dogs: Seasonal dog ban from Easter day to 1st October.

Toilets: Yes, near the car park.

Kynance Cove

What makes Kynance Cove so unique is that it only really exists at low tide. As the tide goes out it reveals all sorts of caves, coves and hidden treasures which changes slightly every time you go, ideal for those with a more adventurous spirit. It’s is an hour drive from the apartments and a lengthy walk from the car park to the beach, so it’s not the easiest to get to but worth it for it’s unique beauty. Don’t forget to check the tide times before you go!

Awards: Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence

Lifeguard Service: No.

Parking: Yes.

Dogs: Seasonal dog ban from Easter day to 1st October.

Toilets: Yes.

Sennen Cove

Sennen sits right on the Atlantic Ocean making it a surfers paradise. There’s a surf school right on the beach with board hire and lessons available to all and with almost a mile of golden white sand there’s plenty of room for sunbathing and games. It’s only a 45 minute drive from The Sail Loft's luxury holiday apartments so it’s definitely worth a visit.

Awards: Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence

Lifeguard Service: 10am-6pm from 5th May to 30^th. September as well as Easter bank holiday.

Parking: Yes.

Dogs: Seasonal dog ban from Easter day to 1st October.

Toilets: Yes.

These are just a few of the many special beaches in Cornwall, and each time you come back to stay in our luxury self catering apartments you can explore something new. Don’t forget we’re always happy to advise on directions, tide times or things to do!

Onna x 

St Ives Sails Competition…

We love St Ives’s local luxury boutique shops and when offered the prospect of teaming up with the wonderful team at Poppy Treffry we jumped at the chance.  So for one lucky family we are offering the chance to win a fabulous four-night stay for up to six people at the award-winning St Ives luxury self catering apartments the Sail Lofts, and a Poppy Treffry original embroidered picture of sailboats. 

  

Poppy Treffry is our first stop when it comes to office birthdays, or family parties, as we know that not one of us can resist a washing bag with a dachshund or a tea towel with illustrative St Ives boats and Cornish pasties.

Poppy Treffry's company was founded by designer maker Poppy Treffry in 2004. They hand make in Cornwall a range of quirky gifts and accessories featuring Poppy’s illustrative designs. A lot of work goes into Poppy’s products, they use quality materials, local suppliers, simple, low impact production techniques and old Singer sewing machines which we are very much in support of.

Poppy still designs the range, taking inspiration from her many sketchbooks, packed with sketches from museum trips, harbour sides, tea parties and more. Poppy creates the products initially, spending hours agonising over shapes and templates in the sampling stage. Once a finished product is created Sarah (or Pixie as they call her) gets to work cutting out pieces, with Freya cutting out smaller applique pieces where required. The pieces are all then assembled into stitching boxes which head off to our various stitchers, Liz, Lucy, Nancy, Jo and Briony, who then bring them back, around one month later, packed with finished products.

 

Poppy Treffry’s shop is always worth a visit when on holiday in St Ives, so by offering one lucky family an original embroidary by Poppy along with a stay in our luxury 5 star accommodation in Cornwall, they will always have a lasting momento of their St Ives vacation.

For more details on the competition, or to shop for Poppy Treffry products online please see the links below…

St Ives Sails Competition

Poppy Treffry Shop

Best of luck!

Katy x 

Find out more about staying at the Sail Lofts 

*Competition closes Monday 31st August