Equally spectacular for a summer or winter vacation the North Cornwall coast provides interest and activities for all. The beach at Polzeath (Hayle Bay) is large and sandy. Lifeguards are on hand during the summer months and it is considered to be one of the safest beaches in Cornwall. It is wonderful for families and surfers alike with its sand and rockpools, Atlantic rollers and surf school. Within a short distance several other beaches can be found - Broadagogue, only accessible on a very low tide down a precipitous cliff, with its fantastic waves that make the climb down worthwhile, Greenaway, a haven for children with shrimping nets, and Daymer Bay, where families share the fun with windsurfers enjoying the relative calm of the Camel Estuary.

Further afield are Lundy Bay, with its caves and passages, best visited on a low tide with picnic in hand, magnificent Tregardock and Trebarwith Strand. There are other hidden coves and beaches off the beaten track just waiting to be explored.

Walkers will enjoy the extensive coastal paths owned by the National Trust which pass through areas of outstanding natural beauty, and right in front of the properties. Some of the most lovely stretches are to be found between Pentire Point and Port Isaac, much of this area being directly accessible on foot from the houses.

Rumps Point is magnificent and provides a haven for wildlife - seals are regularly seen here, and more occasionally basking sharks and dolphins. Bird-watchers will appreciate the large variety of sea birds including puffins which nest on The Mouls, a rocky outcrop just off Rumps Point. In spring and early summer the cliffs are a blaze of colour with carpets of wild flowers in bloom, and in high summer many lovely butterflies can be seen including rare visitors such as the Clouded Yellow. Local artists are often seen here taking advantage not only of the beauty, but also of the light for which Cornwall is renowned.