Step outside and you’re already on the coast path. No build-up, no planning. Just the soft give of the worn sandy path underfoot, the scent of salt in the air and the Atlantic stretched wide and restless ahead.

We’ve share a collection of our favourite hideaways with direct access to the South West Coast Path. Where a gate or a quiet path leads you out onto clifftop walks, hidden coves and picturesque bays.

Rock

Wheel Cottage

In the heart of Rock, Wheel Cottage brings the coastline right to your doorstep. Set down by the waterfront, with views across the Camel Estuary, it offers a gentler take on coast path living. Hop across the road to the private garden above the beach, or wander along Rock Road towards Porthilly Cove.

Greenaway

Seagull

Seagull sits quietly between Daymer Bay and Polzeath, where the coastline stretches out in both directions. At the bottom of the garden, a simple gate opens and you’re straight onto the path. Turn one way and you’ll find the steps down to Greenaway Beach. The other leads you along the headland towards Daymer or Polzeath.

Greenaway Reach

Set within generous grounds, Greenaway Reach feels quietly removed, yet deeply connected to the coastline. The gardens roll gently towards the coastal path below, blending into the natural landscape. From here, it’s simply a case of heading out and letting the path lead.

Spindrift on The Greenaway

At Spindrift on the Greenaway, the garden meets a Cornish stone wall, with a gate that opens quietly onto the path beyond. Step through and the landscape takes over. Miles of coastline stretching ahead, hidden coves tucked below, and wide skies that shift throughout the day. 

Polzeath

Treviles

Set high above the coastline, Treviles feels completely immersed in its surroundings. The lawn falls away towards the sea, and a private gate leads you straight onto the path below. Polzeath lies just minutes in one direction, Greenaway in the other.

The Atlantic apartments

At The Atlantic apartments, the connection feels immediate. Step out onto the terrace and the path runs right along the seafront, tracing the edge of Polzeath Beach. From here, everything opens up. A wander to Baby Bay, a longer stretch towards Pentire, or simply following the shoreline as far as the light will take you.

Carn Mar

At Carn Mar, the connection couldn’t be easier. A gate at the bottom of the garden opens onto the path, with steps leading down to the sand. It’s simple, immediate, and perfectly placed for days spent moving between house, path and sea.

Troy

Nestled above one of the most beautiful stretches of the North Cornwall coast, Troy feels wonderfully removed. The garden looks out towards the sea, with Lundy Bay in one direction and New Polzeath in the other. From the driveway, a pretty lane leads to the footpath through National Trust countryside, winding down towards Lundy Bay.

Port Isaac

Shrimps

Set above its distinctive archway, Shrimps connects you to the coastline in a different way. Here, the path opens out along the cliffs; Port Isaac lies just below, while Port Gaverne waits in the other direction. Both within easy reach.

The Port Hole

At The Port Hole, the path runs just beyond the front door, following the line of the cliffs above the harbour. From here, it’s easy to move between the village and the open coastline, with the sea always in view.