Idyllic countryside with abundant wildflowers, close proximity to dramatic Cornish coastline and a historic estate full of intrigue, and that’s barely scratching the surface. Since being abandoned in the 1940’s, the Fir Hill estate in Colan near Newquay, has recently been transformed into a stunning glamping site, providing stylish traditional Mongolian yurt accommodation.
The Fir Hill yurts are completely off-grid and set within 62 acres of woodland, just 5km from Newquay and a short walk away from Porth Reservoir. There are currently 9 yurts on site, providing comfortable and spacious accommodation, ideal for family holidays.
The Yurt Accommodation
The construction of these traditional Mongolian yurts is perfection. With not a gap in sight and generous use of material layers including thick 100% sheep wool felt insulation, the result is a truly cosy interior, snug during chilly summer nights and yet surprisingly cool during the day.
After a long but pleasant drive and a warm welcome, I settle into my own Tardis-like yurt. Inside I find a kingsize and two double beds, each equally comfortable, along with bedside tables and lanterns. There’s also two large armchairs, and unlike most glamping accommodation I’ve stayed in, there’s also somewhere to hang clothes up and a set of drawers allowing me to tidy away the contents of my bags and make myself at home.
Each yurt is set within its own landscaped grounds, dominated with a spacious decked area which includes a picnic bench. Beyond that, each yurt has its own kitchen shelter containing cutlery, crockery, cookware, a kettle and gas burner.
The camper in me dictates I must be over-prepared for every situation, and I bring my own cool box, crockery and cookware with me. I needn’t have bothered though, everything I need, including a good quality igloo cool box and even kindling for my personal fire pit, is right here.
My usually invaluable solar power hub proves unnecessary too, as the barn, a funky communal space that guests are encouraged to use, is not only a great space to relax in, but a convenient place to recharge any essential devices.
Despite it being the August Bank holiday weekend, good weather is of course never a given in the UK, but for 5 days straight I awoke to blue skies and blazing sunshine, the ideal weather to enjoy glamping to it’s fullest, and perfect for exploring the grounds of the estate and this part of Cornwall.
The Fir Hill Estate
The estate is a historic treasure trove, rich in archaeological features that provide glimpses into the ancient use of the woodland, including what’s thought to be the remains of a rare Ochre mine, as well as clear evidence of the John Edyvean canal, an ambitious scheme to create a lockless canal sytem, running from Mawgan Porth to St Columb Porth, that was never completed.
I enjoy a lazy afternoon walk through the estate grounds in the company of charming owner, Charlie Hoblyn. As we walk he talks animatedly, revealing future plans, pointing out archaeological features and sharing his seemingly endless knowledge of the trees and plants that we pass.
Charlies words demonstrate a clear love for this place, and his commitment to the land is evident in meticulous woodland management and the planting of hundreds of new trees, ensuring that for every area of ground cleared to accommodate yurts, at least as much has been replanted, and his enthusiasm and passion is infectious.
I can think of no better environment for a relaxing, back to nature family holiday, but don’t expect back to basics from this glamping site. The facilities here are excellent.
The barn is a stunning building with the most incredible countryside views that lead the eye down towards Porth Reservoir. Packed full of comfy sofas, stunning wooden tables and a cupboard full of boardgames, the first floor features enormous picture windows; the perfect vantage point from which to view the setting sun.
From the secluded woodland setting of the estate, it’s hard to believe the lively coastal town of Newquay is only a few kilometres away. Indeed, the only real clue as to the proximity of the coast are the many wetsuits slung over the small wooden fences that surround each occupied yurt. When I return after a day on the water exploring the dramatic St Agnes coastline, knowing my own wetsuit will soon be drying in the warm evening sunshine is curiously gratifying.
Out and About
Don’t be mistaken into believing that all this part of Cornwall has to offer revolves around the sea though. Whilst the powerful Atlantic is a huge draw to surfers and adrenaline junkies alike, within half an hour in either direction of the Fir Hill, there are an endless number of places to see and things to do.
From walking the superb South West Coast Path, ambling around delightful little fishing villages and sampling fresh Cornish crab, shopping or even trying your hand at local arts and crafts, through to the more obvious crowd pleasers like Newquay Zoo and The Eden Project; the area provides something for absolutely everyone.
I spend my evenings reading, either sitting outside on my deck, or laying on my ridiculously comfortable bed, yurt door flung open, allowing me to glance up every now and again to appreciate the stunning views. The closeness of such ancient woodland is truly calming. The quiet is punctuated by cattle lowing and the plaintive cries of Buzzards; all to the backing of delicate twittering birdsong and the distant carefree sound of children playing.
The final verdict
My own five days at the Fir Hill flew by, and a week or more could very easily and comfortably be spent here.
For those seeking an alternative family holiday or for couples wanting a romantic long weekend break at the luxury end of the glamping scale, the Fir Hill offers everything you could want from a glamping holiday, and at the end of your stay, you’ll be sad to leave this slice of idyllic Cornish countryside behind.
Why should you choose the Fir Hill yurts?
- The Fir Hill yurts are perfectly located for exploring the north Cornwall coastline. Half an hour south takes you to historic St. Agnes where I booked a superb sea kayaking trip with Koru Kayaking, whilst half an hour north will get you to Padstow and beyond.
- The estate is a short drive from Newquay and all of its attractions, I went on the Newquay Sea Safaris seal spotting boat tour and can throughly recommend it.
- The Fir Hill estate is stunning and packed full of the historic remnants of the old Manor house and it’s numerous outbuildings. Wild and enchanting, the woodland here is ripe for exploration.
- The quality of the yurts is exceptional. Whilst they don’t contain wood burning stoves, their construction is such that even in the colder months, I suspect they would remain comfortably habitable.
- The rustic wooden bedframes house ridiculously comfy beds with warm duvets, woolen throws and plump pillows – I promise you will not sleep badly here.
- The facilities are excellent and over the coming years are set to get even better, with plans to develop further woodland walkways and to install wood-heated hot tubs.
- Generous light, airy and clean shower and toilet rooms (with off-grid power and water heating) are a pleasure to use. Just bring your toiletries, flip flops and a fluffy robe.
- A great team including owner Charlie, cousin Phillip and younger Charlie who are full of smiles and happy to chat or answer questions.
- Lilly, the adorably placid big grey labradoodle who rolls over for a tummy rub and often pads over to the yurts at breakfast time in hope of a sausage.
Find out more or book your holiday at the Fir Hill Glamping here.
See more photographs of Fir Hill Glamping.
Thank you to Charlie at the Fir Hill for inviting me to stay.
The post Unforgettable Luxury Glamping Holidays at Fir Hill Yurts, Cornwall appeared first on Camping with Style Camping Blog | Activities • Glamping • Travel • Adventure.
from
http://www.campingwithstyle.co.uk/unforgettable-luxury-glamping-holidays-at-fir-hill-yurts-cornwall/
No comments:
Post a Comment