In the heart of Cornwall's rising celebrity hotspot, Mawgan Porth, lies Bedruthan, a hotel that seamlessly blends family-friendly charm with a dramatic cliffside setting. With its unique location and growing popularity among the stars, this hotel offers an intriguing blend of experiences.
The Setting: A Dramatic Cliffside Escape
Perched on a cliff, Bedruthan boasts breathtaking views and easy access to the golden sands of Mawgan Porth beach. The town's transformation into 'Hollywood on Sea' adds a layer of intrigue, attracting visitors with its celebrity connections. However, the cliffside location comes with a trade-off: a steep walk to the beach, which may be challenging for families with young children and heavy luggage.
Dining: A Mix of Casual and Upscale
The hotel offers two dining options. Ogo, the fine dining restaurant, serves local, seasonal delights, but its exclusion of children under five seems at odds with the hotel's family-friendly reputation. The Wild Café provides a more relaxed atmosphere with a larger menu, including classics like moules mariniere. The friendly staff cater to families, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
Accommodations: Basic Yet Bright
Bedrooms are simple but well-designed, maximizing natural light. Upgrading to a sea view room is highly recommended for the stunning vistas. The hotel is gradually transitioning to a more neutral color scheme, especially in the sea view villas, which offer separate bunk bed rooms and small terraces overlooking the ocean.
Entertainment and Relaxation: Something for Everyone
Bedruthan excels in providing entertainment for all ages. The indoor heated pool, with its timed slots during peak periods, ensures a pleasant swimming experience. There's also an outdoor pool and an on-site soft play area, a hit with younger children. Evening entertainment during school holidays adds to the fun, and the spa area, though small, offers a relaxing escape with a hot tub, steam room, and sauna.
Value and Accessibility
Double rooms start at £149, including breakfast, and the hotel often runs family-friendly offers. Accessibility is somewhat limited due to the cliffside location, but the hotel provides accessible rooms and ramps to reach main areas.
Conclusion: A Celebrity-Approved Family Retreat
Bedruthan's appeal lies in its ability to cater to families while offering a unique, celebrity-adjacent experience. The combination of stunning natural surroundings, family-friendly amenities, and a touch of Hollywood glamour creates a memorable getaway. Personally, I think it's a fascinating blend of worlds, offering a glimpse into the lives of the rich and famous while providing a warm, welcoming environment for families to create their own special memories.