Author bio: Anna Reid is an outdoor and lifestyle PR, and is a thrilled to be supporting TOG partner Whitsand Bay Fort luxury lodges.

I’ve visited Whitsand Bay, Cornwall, countless times, but as I stood on the beach on a balmy June day, it took my breath away …

… and that wasn’t just because I’d meandered down the steep cliff in the 24 degree heat, stopping at every carefully built step to look out to sea. This beach is vast. I’m talking 3 miles of soft sand, stretching out in front of you when the tide is out, to shallows, soft waves, and rocks jolting out atmospherically.

I’ve driven the Pacific Coast Highway in California, and this coastline is every bit as dramatic, wild and beautiful. Thank you, Whitsand Bay, you made me ecstatic to be alive!

Lets move east, for a walk that feels nothing short of epic …

Coastal dreams

I retraced my well-trodden footsteps in the name of a TOG walk, mapping a route that takes in vistas at every corner, with plenty of refreshment stops, and a sea swim at Cawsand for those brave enough.

Guarding Plymouth Sound from the westerly winds, Rame Head, a haunt of the rare Dartford Warbler, is a dramatic headland surmounted by a medieval chapel which once doubled as a hermitage and lighthouse. You can climb to the top of the hill, and enjoy 360 degree views.

Many have seen Rame Head in the film The Salt Path, but it’s even better in ‘real life’ – though it turns out it’s a little blustery on top of the world.

At the nape of the hill, on my way towards Cawsand, I met a couple who were walking the 640 miles of the South West Coast Path. They’d be walking for weeks and looked nothing short of excited at the thought of another 20 miles ahead of them that day. I hope they are still going and their boots haven’t rubbed.

Coastal dreams

So this is the location of Whitsand Bay Fort, the luxury holiday lodges for sale, and I think they are simply the best idea!

It is said that many visitors who come through from Plymouth into Cornwall miss the Rame Peninsula, otherwise known as Cornwall’s ‘Forgotten Corner’. On top of the beaches and coastline, this section of Cornwall’s National Landscape contains the 800 acre Mount Edgcumbe Park, one of the most beautiful in England, as well as Maker Heights, and the picturesque villages of Kingsand and Cawsand.

It’s stylish and cozy self-catering lodges blend seamlessly into the tranquil landscape, while the secluded touring and camping areas allow you to connect with nature.

In the evenings, you can dine at the historic on-site restaurant, The Fort Inn, or enjoy the stunning nighttime views from your exclusive lodge. Complemented by the indoor heated swimming pool and stylish restaurant, the lodges have been a popular destination for years.

Coastal dreams

Whitsand Bay Fort offers a slice of history, too …

Whitsand Bay Fort takes you on a journey back in time to when Whitsand Bay Fort served as a vital coastal defence, protecting Plymouth’s principal Naval Bases.

You will discover the unforgettable architecture of the fort, where original cannons still stand proudly along the cliffs. Carefully explore the time-worn tunnels and uncover hand-carved messages etched into the walls by soldiers long ago. Since 1955, Whitsand Bay Fort has dedicated itself to the meticulous restoration of the historic artefacts and architecture throughout the resort.

It’s rather surprising, as you walk around the resort, as the coastal views and familiar holiday feel are peppered with surprising historic quirks.

Find out more about Whitsand Bay Fort here.

Author: Anna Reid