Ginny Weeks visits Lower Barns in South Cornwall

WHAT’S THE BUZZ?
Just a short drive from the fabulous Lost Gardens of Heligan and pretty harbour town of Mevagissey, Lower Barns sits in a romantic spot in the depths of the South Cornish countryside. Less than two miles from beautiful sandy beaches, it’s a luxurious, charming base for exploring the area.

WHAT ARE THE ROOMS LIKE?
There are six individually styled suites, including two newly built cottages called Nook and Cranny. Owners Janie and Mike used their travels as design inspiration – think vibrant South American colours, stripped wooden floors, four-poster beds and crisp white linen. One suite features an upstairs room (perfect for families) and another, the Hideaway (a beach shack cottage with private garden), is popular with newly-weds. All rooms have great views over the garden and valley below. The whole place is also dog-friendly.

ANY LUXURIOUS TOUCHES?
Our cottage (Cranny) had a quirky kitchenette with an orange Smeg fridge and a woodburner. A four-poster bed in the bedroom overlooks French doors that lead to a private walled garden. The large, chic bathroom is filled with locally produced toiletries and has a luxurious free-standing bath and drench shower.

BEST SEA VIEW?
You can’t see the sea from Lower Barns, but the sunsets over the valley are spectacular, particularly from the hot tub!

HOW ABOUT THE FOOD?
Evening meals are served in The Shack, a gorgeous purpose-built stone house with an open fire and fairy lights. Bring your own booze and enjoy locally sourced food cooked by Janie and Mike. We had a three-course meal of cheese souflé, sea bass with roasted vegetables, and sticky toffee pudding with pecan ice cream.

WHAT WILL IT COST?
Double B&B from £95. Visit lowerbarns.co.uk to book.

Click here for more hotel reviews