As an island, our coast is a magnet for holidays and weekends away, and it is Cornwall that we tend to get the most excited about, inspired by its unique tropical flora, ancient fishing communities and long sandy beaches.
Head to the south of Cornwall to Falmouth – all boho chic with its artists and craftsmen – and you’ll find a creative spirit running through its soul complemented by its age-old maritime history, rugged beauty and famous Cornish light. Home to Gyllyngvase Beach, here white sand and clear water beckons sunbathers and families over the summer months, however as one of Britain’s best places to live, Falmouth is a town that attracts visitors all year round.
For us, what is most intriguing is what lies just 10 minutes’ drive down the road.
Possibly one of Britain’s best kept secrets, stepping through the doors of the stylish, recently refurbished Hotel Meudon is an invitation to slow down and enjoy a naturally luxurious escape. Whether you’ve arrived to recharge your batteries, learn a new skill or admire the incredible coast and gardens of this wonderful property, you’ll leave as a friend and an RSVP to come back soon.
Photo: Lee Searle
At the heart of Hotel Meudon’s nine acres of sprawling subtropical gardens is the hotel’s 19th century manor house. The hotel and grounds are steeped in history but this, its latest chapter, is the most exciting yet!
The original owners and curators behind the hotel’s incredible gardens championed unusual, exotic plants from across the world, which they brought to life in the temperate Cornish climate. Look out for rare Rhododendrons, huge ferns, blue Agapanthus, Camellias and Mimosa plants, the fragrance of which will join you on your way to the sea. Follow the natural stream as it meanders down through the garden and the vista will open to the hotel’s secluded beach waiting for wild swimming, paddle boarding and kayaking.
Recently renovated, Hotel Meudon feels more like a beautiful home, the new bedrooms face either the sea or gardens, light filled and sumptuously designed, it’s all about bringing the outside world into yours.
Photo: Lee Searle
Dining is a fresh, local and sea-inspired experience, the hotel’s Head Chef takes the homegrown produce from the Meudon kitchen garden and matches it with whatever comes straight from the sea or nearby farms that day – capturing the essence of Cornwall on each and every plate. For a pre or post-dinner cocktail, Freddie’s Bar serves up traditional and exotic drinks, perfect with a side of local mussels or native oysters.
Photo: Adj Brown
Photo: Lee Searle
For those looking to unknot tired feet or backs after a day exploring, head to Hotel Meudon’s Sanctuary Suite where a range of treatments are on offer. We particularly like the idea of the Hiker’s Healing Foot Journey treatment, and for some super pampering, we can’t wait to try the Revitalising Body and Mind treatment – where a skin-tingling body brush is followed by a scrub and a full body massage using essential oils of ginger, lemongrass and lime.
When you base yourself at Hotel Meudon you are in the deep south of Cornwall, a nirvana for a coastal adventure. Summer and autumn are perfect for taking your time to truly explore this unique part of the country. Ditch the car, pick up a paddle, an E-bike or your hiking boots and discover why this secret corner of Cornwall holds a special place in the hearts of all who visit.
Paddle your way
Hotel guests can hire stand up paddleboards and if, like us, this may all be new to you, there are experts to offer balancing tips and guided tours of the coastline and Helford River. Look out for seals and dolphins along the way and take in the beauty of the coast from the water.
Picnics are included on the two and a half-hour private tours and cost from £60 per adult or £30 per child.
Eco wheeling
Electric bikes are literally a breeze to ride, and much appreciated on the rolling Cornish hills. And with up to 70 kilometres range there are plenty of villages and coves to discover by E-bike from Hotel Meudon.
Pre-planned routes, helmets, locks and more are offered to guests from £45 per day.
Just you and nature
For walkers (or slow strollers like us), the South West Coast Path runs directly from the hotel gardens out to Rosemullion Head and the Helford Estuary. Watch the seasons unfurl their flora and fauna before you on this four-mile circular walk, spectacular at any time of the year or join expert local historian, Paul Miller on a guided walk, his local insights will keep your dinner conversation flowing for years.
Fit to relax
With the fresh air of the sea and the coast as your backdrop, Hotel Meudon is the place to get fit and flexible with weekly fitness and yoga sessions held in the sprawling grounds or on the beach.
Photo: Adj Brown
Photo: Lee Searle
An invitation to chill
Venture down to the beach and enjoy tea, coffee and light bites at the Bream Box. Back at the hotel the new outdoor bar on the terrace is the perfect garden setting for cool drinks and chilled cocktails.
Rooms at Hotel Meudon start from £129 per night including daily breakfast for two people sharing.
The hotel’s ‘Summer Dreaming’ offer is available until 6th September 2022 and includes a three-course dinner each evening and full Cornish breakfast each morning, starting from £558 for two nights (for two adults sharing).
Advance bookings required. Well behaved dogs are welcome.
