Three Mile Beach, Gwithian, Cornwall, UK - Explore & Book

"This bold and innovative beach hideaway, which spent four years in the making before opening to great acclaim in summer 2021, started out with a question: what is the best place in Britain for kitesurfing? Asking the question was Craig Burkinshaw, intrepid explorer, watersports fan, and founder of Audley Travel. And the answer – clearly – was here, on Gwithian’s 3 mile-long, west-facing beach in St Ives Bay. It's true. The waves roll in with a deliciously dependable surf, the west wind blows with beautiful predictability, the shore is endlessly sandy, with bobbing seals and secluded cliff-backed coves to shelter in. So, with his partner Jo, who has a handy eye for interior design, they bought a field above the bungalows of Gwithian's Towans ('sand dunes' in Cornish) and set about building 19 of the most cosseting, uplifting and stylish beach houses you can imagine. Think Bondi surf chic, with colourful touches from Mexico and Morocco, plus every conceivable creature comfort – from wine fridges to private sauna and hot tub on your sail-shaded deck. Naturally, surf lessons, boards and wetsuits are on hand, along with private chefs, boat trips and pretty much anything else you desire. With two, three or four bedrooms each, these houses are the ideal spot for some laid-back beachside luxury with your family (including four-legged friends), or for a very special get-together with mates. Highs The houses are supremely well equipped and easy on the eye: a lovely spot to hole up and chill out, any time of year An on-site food truck offers world cuisine from tacos to Thai; private chefs and DIY pizza ovens are available too That beach: huge and sandy, with rock pools, surf schools and life guards – and 3 miles long is no exaggeration Even if you’re not into surfing, there’s tons to do: coastal walks, St Ives’ boutiques, trips to St Michael’s Mount, Mousehole or Land’s End It’s open all year, with flexible arrival days and discounted off-season rates (great for a cosy winter escape) Lows The houses are quite close together, and only half of them have sea glimpses It's on an exposed hillside which catches the prevailing west wind There’s no pool or spa on site: this place is about getting back in touch with nature, wilderness – and each other Minimum stay of 1 week in summer holidays School holidays get booked up quickly: plan ahead – and go for it!" - Michael Cullen