As the days get longer and the nights shorter, it's almost time to dust off your suitcase and get packing for a well-deserved Spring break to Cornwall. Here at Sands Resort Hotel & Spa, we've been counting down the days for when we can invite you to sink into the coastal life that you all know, love and have really missed. But, in the meantime, we catch up with Lowenna Pascoe aka Cornwall Lover to find out what’s on the agenda this year and which must-dos you need to get adding to your Cornwall bucket list.
Head into the surf
Is a trip to Cornwall complete without giving surfing a go?
You’ll be surprised how many benefits there are to getting in the water, many of which lead to a happier, healthier and more fulfilling life. And with Cornwall boasting hundreds of beaches perfect for taking the plunge with a surfboard, it really is a must during your stay. If you’re a beginner there are heaps of local surf schools waiting to take you out on the water and get you standing up on your first, try. Check out this guide from Women + Waves beforehand with plenty of tips on how to prepare yourself before diving in. From packing snacks to warming down post surf, it’s all in there.
Spa day
If there was a time to truly spoil yourself, I think it’s now! We’ve all had a whirlwind of a year (I won’t mention the C word), but now is your time to forget about the hustle and bustle of home life and enjoy a little time for yourself. The Ocean Breeze Spa has a sumptuous array of ELEMIS health and beauty treatments from relaxing facials to aromatherapy massage. After a treatment I recommend you take your chilled time to the hot tub area and Moroccan lounge where you’ll find beautifully bright coloured furnishings and pretty lanterns hanging from the ceiling; the detail in the room is exceptional. See the full treatment list.
Wild Swimming
If surfing isn’t for you, I highly recommend taking a dip in some more secluded and calmer waters around the coast. I tried this myself last year on New Year's Day at Newquay Harbour and haven’t looked back since. The experience of a cold-water shock improves the body’s stress response, increases the levels of dopamine in the body and is a way for us to build our confidence, resilience, and bravery. You’ll feel amazing for the rest of the day and ready to conquer the world. There are plenty of places around Newquay and Falmouth for this, try Gyllyngvase beach and a spot along the Helford River. Alternatively check out my Instagram for some more inspiration https://www.instagram.com/cornwall_lover/
Breakfast in bed
With many of the hotel’s rooms offering superb sea views, it would be rude not to enjoy a cheeky lie in or two. Enjoy a morning wrapped up in your fluffy robe, watch the paddle boarders and sunrise dippers take to the ocean, and let the Sands team prep your hearty Cornish breakfast, pot of tea and bring it directly to you. Sounds perfect to me? Check out the menu in your room and just pick up the phone. It’s as easy as that.
See carpets of flowers on the coast path
If you’re visiting Cornwall in April/May/June then you’re in for a real colourful treat. Strike out along the coast path just outside Sands Resort Hotel & Spa and you’ll be amazed by the carpets of sea pinks (also known as sea thrift). This really is my favourite time of year, and also my favourite wildflower. With a backdrop of turquoise shimmering sea and Porth Island in the distance, this is a fantastic spot to see and watch the ebb and flow of coastal life. Queue the hundred posts of sea pinks on my Instagram.
Tuck into some street food
After a short 25-minute walk from the doors of Sands Resort Hotel & Spa to neighbouring Watergate Bay, you might find you’ve worked up an appetite. Well, you’re in luck because from May you’ll be able to dig into the bays brand new foodie pop up. Follow the smell of food and fill up on seasonal takeaway dishes – From gourmet hot dogs and Napoletana-style pizzas to artisan ice cream, cold beers and cocktails for sunset.
Find out more here.
Mor Grazing
If you’re wanting to venture out for food, but don’t want to fight for a spot in busy restaurants I highly recommend a Mor Grazing box. The two lovely ladies behind this new business deliver breakfast boxes, cheese and grazing boxes, as well as sweet treats and other freshly picked foodie delights. Strike out along the coast path, find a perfect spot to watch the sun go down, roll out your picnic blanket, pop the cork on your favourite tipple and feast on the finest foods while enjoying the scenery. Find out more
I hope you have enjoyed my round up of things to do this Spring in Cornwall. For more inspiration check out my Instagram pag