Trevose Harbour House, St Ives, Cornwall - Explore & Book
"This is the story of a long-cherished dream by Angela and Olivier, who met at the Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne in Switzerland over a decade ago. As they studied the trade and worked in European hotels, they honed a vision of their perfect B&B and vowed to open it one day. Along the way, they got married, had kids, and recce-d in Brazil, where they thought their hotel would be. But then they saw a delapidated B&B in St Ives and decided they'd found their premises. Over 18 months, they completely gutted the building, painstakingly upcycled vintage furniture, then married it all with a bright white shell, contemporary blue fabrics and coastal artwork. Since then they've expanded their empire to include 2 romantic 1-bedroom apartments just down the road.Today, Trevose Harbour House is a joy to behold. First impressions are of freshness and light, and the longer you linger, the more you notice the extraordinary level of detail that makes this 6-roomed B&B so special. There are old Scandinavian sideboards, retro drawers with modern sinks plumbed atop, re-upholstered 60s chairs, classic lampshades and vintage mirrors, along with modern wallpapers, Neal's Yard toiletries and candle lanterns. Everything is squeaky clean, and there's a true commitment to the environment. If you're looking for a deeply stylish bolthole near the sea, you could do no better.
Highs
Exquisite design: every little detail is immaculate and we loved the spoiling touches - thick bathrobes, artisan biscuits, turndown serviceAdults only, so perfect for romance. Book a bedroom at the front for sweeping panoramic views of the sea and harbourAngela and Olivier are perfect hosts; you feel instantly welcome and thoroughly taken care of throughout your stay The 2 self-catering studio apartments are style havens, perfect for added privacy and longer staysAn excellent location - a short walk to golden Porthminster beach in one direction, the centre of town with great restaurants in the other
Lows
Communal areas are small and feel crowded once there are a few guests inThe Terrace Deluxe room looks onto a small communal terrace so lacks privacyParking is always tricky in St Ives and Trevose Harbour House only has a couple of spaces (extra cost); consider coming by train instead, as the station is yards awayA 2-night minimum stay" - Liz Simpson