If you've never taken a holiday in Cornwall before, it can be difficult to know where to start. There are so many beautiful villages and holiday locations to choose from and that's before you've even started to begin narrowing down your search to find the perfect holiday cottage. We suggest you head to a travel expert with in depth knowledge of the area and this is where Aspects Holidays rises to the occasion, with a portfolio brimming with beautiful properties, ready to take your booking.

Charlestown, Sennen and Praa Sands


Aspects Holidays recommends these three locations, each has a very different style, catering for all types of holiday makers. Here we break down what each area has to offer.

Location Best For Beach Atmosphere Nearby Attractions
Charlestown Harbour walks, history, restaurants Small beaches/coves Picturesque historic village Eden Project, Mevagissey, Lost Gardens of Heligan
Sennen Dramatic scenery, surfing, coastal walks Spectacular sandy bay Remote, wild, rugged Land's End, Minack Theatre, St Ives
Praa Sands Relaxed beach holidays, families, surfing Large sandy beach Quiet, residential, beach-focused St Michael's Mount, Penzance, Marazion


Charlestown


Step back in time when you visit historic Charlestown on the south coast of Cornwall. This picturesque village is located on the outskirts of the town of St Austell: it's a fishing port with a Grade II listed harbour, so much so that you half expect Poldark to tear round a corner. There are stunning beaches close by, plenty of choice when you want to eat out and still, the village and surroundings remain remarkably unspoilt. And to top it all, there are some marvellous self-catering holidays in Charlestown to book.

What it's like



  • A gorgeous Georgian harbour village famous for its historic tall ships

  • Often used as a filming location (including scenes for the TV series Poldark)

  • More about atmosphere, dining, and sightseeing than beach life.



Pros



  • One of Cornwall's prettiest harbours

  • Great pubs, restaurants, and cafés

  • Close to major attractions like the Eden Project

  • Easy for day trips around mid-Cornwall



Cons



  • Beaches are small rather than expansive

  • Can feel busy during peak summer



Cottages to book in Charlestown


Cooper's Rest, Charlestown


Holiday In Cornwall Coopers Rest - Aspects Holidays Copy

Cooper's Rest is a beautiful retreat that captures the rich maritime chapters of Charlestown, located where barrels were once crafted for the tall ships that sailed from this historic harbour. Sleeping 8 guests across four spacious bedrooms, it's perfect for family gatherings or special celebrations with friends. There are two modern shower rooms, a generous sitting room for relaxed evenings together, and a large kitchen/diner designed for long, sociable meals filled with laughter. Charlestown, a home to tall ships and the filming of Poldark, it is a perfect location for those wanting to explore Cornwall. The walkers amongst you will relish the coast path, that runs from Charlestown to either Porthpean or Carlyon Bay, both boast fantastic beaches with golden sand. Find out more about Cooper's Rest here

Mor Dianc, Carlyon Bay


Holiday In Cornwall Mor Dianc - Aspects Holidays Copy

Perched on the clifftops, along the South West Coast Path that runs from Carlyon Bay to Charlestown, Mor Dianc is a stunning two bedroom penthouse. Expansive windows frame the ocean beyond. Two generously proportioned bedrooms provide a peaceful sanctuary while the balcony offers you a front row seat to the beauty of Cornwall's coastline. See what Mor Dianc has to offer.

Sennen


Rugged coastal scenery, surfing, hiking and a get away from it all feel are on the map in Sennen. It's one of the most beautiful, unspoilt areas of Cornwall, famous for its unique location and beauty making it the perfect place to explore on a self catering holiday. To boot, it's the most westerly parish in the UK, nestled between Cape Cornwall and Land's End.

What it's like



  • Cornwall at its most dramatic

  • Located near Land's End on the Atlantic coast

  • Huge sandy beach, powerful waves, and stunning sunsets

  • Feels remote and wild compared with Praa Sands and Sennen


Pros



  • Some of Cornwall's most spectacular scenery

  • Excellent surfing

  • Access to the South West Coast Path

  • Amazing sunsets and sea views


Cons



  • Further from many Cornwall attractions

  • Atlantic weather can be windier and rougher

  • More remote, with fewer services.



Cottages to book in Sennen


Far West, Sennen


Holiday In Cornwall Far West - Aspects Holidays Copy

Set in a commanding elevated position on the cliff above Sennen Cove. There is ample accommodation, sleeping up to six guests in three en suite bedrooms, with a gorgeous open plan sitting room, complete with cosy woodburner, the perfect spot for storm watching on one of Cornwall's wilder days, Far West really is perfect for larger families or couples at any time of year. The patio area chases the sun from sunrise to sunset. Sennen Cove is a short walk down a steep hill, with a mile and a half of golden sands where nature sets the pace. In summer, turquoise seas and white sands tempt guests onto Sennen Beach. In winter, the woodburner crackles and the Atlantic Ocean roars. Find out about Far West here.

Rosevear, Sennen


Holiday In Cornwall Rosevear - Aspects Holidays Copy

Overlooking the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Rosevear is set over two floors and is decorated with a mix of relaxed coastal influences and hand painted antique furniture, with its focus being all about the views. The master bedroom features a superking-size bed, en suite bathroom and patio doors which lead to a terrace, commanding dramatic views of Sennen Cove. The first floor is home to a further two kingsize double bedrooms plus a twin room, all with stunning sea views. Find out more here.

Praa Sands


With a mile long beach with white golden sand, Praa Sands provides an idyllic setting for a Cornish holiday. If you long for beach days and family picnics, waves are great for surfers and bodyboarders, this location offers all this and more. There are stunning coastal walks, with breathtaking views of Penzance, Mount’s Bay and The Lizard Peninsula. Self-catering holiday rentals get snapped up fast so be sure to book early to avoid disappointment.

What it's like



  • A long, beautiful sandy beach on Cornwall's south coast

  • Much quieter than St Ives or Newquay

  • Popular with surfers, paddleboarders, and families

  • Not really a village with lots of shops or nightlife, it's all about the beach



Pros



  • Easier access and parking

  • Excellent beach for children

  • Good base for exploring west Cornwall

  • Usually less crowded than Cornwall's famous north-coast resorts



Cons



  • Limited evening entertainment

  • You'll probably need to drive most places

  • There is a small charge to use the public loos



Cottages to book in Praa Sands


Seadrift, Praa Sands


Holiday In Cornwall Sea Drift - Aspects Holidays Copy

A coastal retreat offers breathtaking sea views and a true sense of ultimate luxury and tranquillity. Sleeping up to six guests, this duplex first floor apartment combines stylish decor with thoughtfully designed interiors. The open-plan sitting, kitchen and dining space is ideal for precious family catch ups, delicious dinners, and unwinding, with bi-fold doors opening out to a spacious balcony where you can soak up uninterrupted views across the beach. Each of the three bedrooms are furnished with relaxation in mind, providing a restful haven after days spent exploring the local area. With Praa Sands beach just moments away, you can spend all day on the beach, swimming in the sea or exploring the coastline along the South West Coast Path. Browse what Seadrift has to offer here.

The Gables, Praa Sands


Holiday In Cornwall The Gables - Aspects Holidays Copy

A Scandi style holiday home perfectly blends comfort, style, and serenity. Nestled in a peaceful setting just a short stroll from the golden shores of Praa Sands beach, it sleeps up to eight guests in four beautifully appointed bedrooms and features three modern bathrooms, ensuring ample space for families and groups alike. Step outside, and you’ll find plenty of surrounding outdoor space. The Gables boasts superb amenities designed to enhance your getaway. Spacious and inviting, the thoughtfully furnished interiors create a relaxing atmosphere, including a cosy cinema room! Find out more about The Gables here.

Recommendation by holiday style



  • Young family with children: Praa Sands

  • Couple wanting restaurants, harbour views, and sightseeing: Charlestown

  • Walkers, surfers, and lovers of dramatic landscapes: Sennen

  • First-ever Cornwall trip: Charlestown (best central base)

  • Classic beach holiday: Praa Sands

  • Most memorable scenery: Sennen



FAQs: Choosing the best destination for your Cornwall holiday

Which part of Cornwall is best for culture, history and tradition?
Charlestown is an excellent choice for travellers looking for a classic Cornish seaside experience. The historic harbour, tall ships, waterfront restaurants and easy access to nearby attractions make it ideal for couples, families and anyone wanting to explore Cornwall's maritime heritage.
Why should I book a holiday in Sennen?
Sennen is one of Cornwall's most spectacular coastal destinations, known for its wide sandy beach, excellent surfing conditions and dramatic scenery near Land's End. It's perfect for visitors seeking outdoor adventures, coastal walks and unforgettable sea views.
Is Praa Sands a good destination for family holidays?
Yes. Praa Sands is particularly popular with families thanks to its mile-long sandy beach, seasonal lifeguard cover, shallow waters and plenty of space for sandcastle building and beach games. The sheltered location also makes it a great choice for relaxing seaside breaks.
Which Cornwall destination is best for surfing?
Both Sennen and Praa Sands are renowned surfing destinations. Praa Sands is often considered one of the south coast's premier surfing beaches, while Sennen attracts surfers of all abilities with its consistent waves and surf schools.
What attractions are close to Charlestown, Sennen and Praa Sands?
Charlestown offers easy access to Cornwall's south coast attractions, while Sennen is close to Land's End and the South West Coast Path. Visitors staying in Praa Sands can explore nearby locations such as Mount's Bay, Penzance, Pengersick Castle and the Lizard Peninsula.
When is the best time to book a holiday in Cornwall?
Cornwall is a year-round destination, but accommodation in popular locations such as Charlestown, Sennen and Praa Sands can book up quickly during school holidays and summer months. Booking early gives you the best choice of holiday cottages, coastal apartments and family-friendly accommodation. Coastal walks, beaches and local attractions can also be enjoyed during spring and autumn when the area is often quieter.