Atmosphere: If you’re looking to enjoy the Cornish countryside and escape from civilisation as most urbanites know it, then Libertine Cottage – a little stone cottage tucked deep within verdant farmlands near the village of Goonhavern, is a dream come true. Behind the cottage is a lovely little forest, and in front are rolling meadows that make for a mystical scene when shrouded in morning mist. If you love fairytales, nature and peace and quiet, this place is pure magic.
Space: The property was formerly an 18th century pig sty before it was converted into a cosy, one-bedroom steampunk cottage by owners Caroline, a former London fashion buyer, and her husband Miles who is an engineer. White stone walls, unvarnished wood slate finishings, a wood burning stove, rocking chair, a bronze Victorian bed and pops of pink, playful pastels, and colourful animal and folk prints come together wonderfully to create a space that is rustic yet fashionable.
Amenities: A science fiction inspired bathroom with a large bathtub, walls of bright turquoise and tin, a ceiling painted magenta, concrete sink and copper pipes makes it hard to resist a long leisurely soak. The cottage is equipped with a fridge, oven, stove, washing machine, hot water and heater. Logs and kindling are provided for the fireplace. There is also a hammock available if you want to relax in the woods at the back of the property.
Location: The cottage is part of of an old farmhouse located at the end of a very remote country road, a few miles from the village of Goonhavern in Wheals Frances, near Perranporth. The owners live in a house down the hill from the cottage. There is a driveway separating their house from the cottage, so you’ll have plenty of privacy, but can always give them a call if you need help with anything.
Service: Caroline and Miles were very friendly and helpful, but not at all intrusive, and they were happy to help me get the fire going for the wood burning stove. Except for when I texted them for initial assistance with the heat, I hardly saw them for most of my stay. There are fresh flowers in the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom, a basket with prosecco and snacks, and scones, clotted cream, jam, milk, eggs, bread and Cornish butter waiting for you when you arrive. Salt and pepper, olive oil and all utensils and cutlery are included.
Things to do while here: The 30-minute walk along bridal paths and country roads to the village of Goonhavern is well paved and extremely serene, and there’s a good chance you won’t see a single soul on these meditative strolls. There is also forest a path with some undergrowth that can be access through the meadows. This path passes a little brook and you can follow it to get to Healys Cornish Cider Farm, or Callestick Farm where you can sample some of Cornwall’s best ice creams.
Room rate at time of review: £790 for a one-week stay; £695 for a 3-night weekend stay.
Address: Libertine Cottage, Carnkeif Farmhouse, Wheals Frances, Cornwall, United Kingdom.