Fiona McKinlay, an architect, reviews the Little Resugga cottage in Cornwall. Sleeping four, she says it's ideal for a family getaway...
Stepping off the train in St Austell, I instantly noticed the clean air and absence of police sirens. It was late when our taxi driver led us into the tiny village of Rescorla. Guided only by head lamps, we turned right along a narrow country lane and through walls of greenery we saw the outline of our home for the next few days.
Little Resugga is a converted hay barn, one of four properties arranged around a pebbled courtyard, lovingly restored by the owners Kim and Gary Turton. Our key unlocks a large, double-height kitchen. It feels instantly welcoming with wonderful paintings adorning the walls; a real family home. In the daytime the sun pours in through the sky lights and illuminates the corn blue walls. Quirky signs requesting ‘Please No Smoking’, children’s toys, teapots and framed embroideries are just some of the knick-knacks which line the shelves. It’s this attention to every detail which adds to the magical charm. A kitchen this special gives you the sudden urge to bake. So that’s what I did. The rich aroma of an apple and cinnamon cake soon drifted through the cottage.
Grey flagstone tiles with under-floor heating lead to the two bedrooms (one master and one twin) and bathroom with a glorious claw-foot bath. Double doors from the main bedroom and dining area open out onto the private garden, a sun trap with far-reaching views to endless pastures.
Upstairs in the sitting room an oil-burning stove ensures a constant cosy glow. The deep sofas are the perfect place to snuggle in and watch a DVD (library provided) on the plasma TV (with an Xbox for children or partners).
After a sound night’s sleep we planned our day over a breakfast of eggs and bacon. Hiring a car is essential if you want to see the surrounding area or, with the nearest supermarket four miles away, stock up on local food.
The Eden Project was first on our list, just three miles away. Its iconic biomes are built into a disused clay mine housing the thriving global gardens. We continued our journey through the small nearby port towns of Charlestown and Fowey, passing Menabilly, the inspiration for Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca, on the way. At the end of meandering streets you can feast on seafood, sample the local ale and admire the old sailing ships.
With the village of Rescorla near the coast it is also an ideal location for the beaches of Carlyon Bay and Polkerris. All of this combined with the magic of the old hay barn, make Little Resugga a real home from home.
From £107pp (£429 total) for seven nights or £150pp (£300 total) for three. To book, visit classic.co.uk
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