Cornwall: The Residence at Gwel an Mor
The first thing you notice when you reach Gwel an Mor in Cornwall is the views. They stretch above high above Portreath and go deep into the wild blue Atlantic. The resort has been charming visitors for years, but this is our first time here and we’re guests to check out their newest venture.
The Residence is Gwel an Mor’s foray into luxury retreat accommodation. A barrier reveals a sea of silver birch homes that artfully blend into the environment. Each has a large plantation-style verandah with a private jacuzzi, patio furniture and comfy cushioned lounge chairs to laze in the Cornish sunshine.
The Residences are built to sustainable principles, including air to water heat pumps which provide all heating and hot water – and wonderfully warm underfloor heating for those days when the sun is to shy to make an appearance.
Inside is contemporary and finished to a high spec, with bright colours, comfortable sofas and shiny formica surfaces. The kitchen has just about everything – including instant hot water and a milk frother to make your own cappuccinos. There are televisions in every room – even the bathroom!
The bedrooms are bright and cheery albeit a bit cozy, and I wasn’t a huge fan of the mirrored closets at the end of the bed (though I am thoroughly aware this may appeal to some people).
There are lots of luxurious little touches – a log burning fire, plush bath robes, Sonos stereo, high-speed broadband, board games and Cornish themed literature, such as Virginia Wolf’s The Lighthouse which was inspired by childhood visits to nearby Godfrey beach.
The girls loved Feadon Farm Wildlife and Education Centre, which is on site and really sets Gwel an Mor apart from other holiday destinations. Gary and Aly Zammit lead activities for visitors such as a nighttime badger watch, rock pooling, falconry, and a “meet the animals” experience which is perfect for little ones.
I of course loved the Wellbeing Spa, which offers a wide range of treatments including a fabulous hot stone massage, which can relax just about anything.
There’s an indoor swimming pool at the Club House, as well as fully fitted gym, sauna and steam room and the Terrace Restaurant serves authentic Mediterranean cuisine for lunch and dinner.
But what else is there to do?
It’s about a 10-minute walk down to Portreath Beach, the real deal when it comes to Cornish beaches, complete with surf shops, ice cream vendors and “the best” fish and chips (according to Trip Advisor).
If you have tweens or teens, they probably want to lean how to surf! EBO Adventure will meet you at the resort and mini van you to the beach for lessons. It really completes the whole Cornwall experience.
If you want to go further afield, the subtropical oasis of St Ives and the picturesque village St Agnes are about 30 minutes away (in opposite directions). And for a woodland experience, Tehidy Country Park is only a few minutes away.
And when you come back from a day out exploring Cornwall, you have the lovely view to enjoy. The resort is aptly named, as Gwel an Mor means sea view in Cornish.
IF YOU GO:
Gwel an Mor Luxury Resort, Feadon Lane, Portreath, Cornwall TR16 4PE 01209 842354 gwelanmor.com
Feadon Farm Wildlife & Education Centre Feadon Ln, Portreath TR16 4PE +44 01209 844136 feadonfarmwildlife.co.uk
The Terrace Restaurant Gwel an Mor Resort, Feadon Ln, Portreath TR16 4PE +44 01209 842354 gwelanmor.com/eat
Wellbeing Spa Gwel an Mor Resort, Feadon Ln, Portreath TR16 4PE +44 01209 842354 gwelanmor.com/spa
EBO Adventure Surf lessons and more! eboadventure.co.uk
Tehidy Country Park, Camborne, Cornwall TR14 website
The Atlantic Cafe Bar Sea Front, Portreath, Redruth TR16 4NN +44 01209 843490 theatlantictr16.co.uk
We were guests of Gwel an Mor for the purpose of this review. All opinions are firmly of myself and my family.
Kara | 3rd Aug 16
I was sold at the hot tub but it looks clean, modern and really comfortable and I love the bright colours……got an idea for home now. We love Cornwall and will bear this in mind for when we return
Trish @ Mum's Gone To | 2nd Aug 16
This is definitely my kind of accommodation: it ticks all the boxes.
We seem to be visiting Devon a lot lately but not crossing the border to Cornwall – will have to put that right.
Cass Bailey | 26th Jul 16
That looks amazing and I love the principals behind it too with the sustainability side of things x
Erica Price | 25th Jul 16
Looks like an amazing place to relax and seek out a few waves.
Steven Ponder | 25th Jul 16
Whoa.. Who wouldn’t want to live in a place like that. I need to go there, pronto!
Michelle Twin Mum | 24th Jul 16
Gorgeous, it does look really wonderful, very luxurious and modern too. Mich x
nessjibberjabberuk | 24th Jul 16
What a place! I think I would find it difficult to leave with such luxury set in such a beautiful location.
Cathy (MummyTravels) | 23rd Jul 16
We stayed earlier this year and it’s so lovely – my daughter still talks about the ‘licky’ goats at the farm (and less approvingly of the pecky chickens). Such a beautiful spot, I’d love to go back.