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Thinking of booking your next trip? GARETH COTTER-STONE explains why Cornwall under canvas is a holiday must
IF you’re looking to take some time away from the chaotic digital world and reconnect with nature, there’s one standout option: a back-to-the-wild glamping getaway. Thwarted by travel restrictions and encouraged by good weather, a surge of holidaymakers have opted for a holiday under canvas this summer. Demand has resulted in more campsites popping up and seasons being extended; after months of uncertainty, domestic travel businesses are finally finding their feet.
One of the latest sites to open is Fir Hill Estate, just a 10-minute drive outside Newquay, on the edge of Porth Reservoir in Cornwall. Spread across the 62-acre historical family estate, Mongolian Gers (a type of yurt) come equipped with a traditional firepit, barbecue stove and cooking facilities.
YURTS AT FIR HILL ESTATE: WHAT’S THE STORY?
THE estate was bought by Charlie Hoblyn in 2012, and since then, he’s worked hard to restore it from ruin. With astonishing ambition and dogged determination, he’s completely transformed the far-reaching grounds, which now comprise majestic woodlands, a renovated barn with cosy leisure areas, and even a beautifullyrestored orchard with more than 200 fruit trees.
What’s even more special is Charlie’s approach to sustainability. The site isn’t connected to mains services; it relies solely on solar thermal panels and a biomass generator for all its power, plus a borehole and spring water supply .
There’s plenty to explore on foot or by bicycle, and a variety of activities – such as fishing, birdwatching and stargazing around the campfire – can be enjoyed without even venturing off the grounds.
A seasonal highlight includes picking the estate’s cherries, apples, plums and damsons
■ A five-night self-catering break in a yurt (sleeping up to six people) at the Fir Hill Estate (thefirhill.co.uk; 07831 800 701) costs from £600.
■ A two-hour taster surf lesson with Newquay Activity Centre (newquayactivitycentre.co.uk; throughout May to September.
WHAT CAN YOU DO IN THE AREA? ALSO known as the surfing capital of the UK, Newquay offers some of the best wave-catching opportunities all year round. 01637 877722) costs from £35 per person, or book a private family surf lesson from £169 for four.
■ FOR more information on Newquay, visit newquaybid.co.uk
If you’re new to surfing, you might want to settle for either Towan, Great Western or Newquay beach, but if you’re up for more of a challenge, head for the impressive waves at Fistral.
There are plenty of spots to rent out wetsuits nearby, if you haven’t got one to hand. I’d highly recommend Slide & Glide, where you can hire a wetsuit for a daily rate of £5. The friendly staff have excellent local knowledge, and also offer a range of customised surfboards, designed specifically for the surf around the area.
NEED TO BRUSH UP ON YOUR SURF SKILLS WITH THE HELP OF A FRIENDLY INSTRUCTOR? NEWQUAY Activity Centre (newquayactivitycentre.co.uk) on Towan beach, offers a range of other outdoor activities, including stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and coasteering. (Taster surf lessons from £35pp.)
If lying flat against the waves is more your thing, try the incredible selection of wooden bodyboards at Dick Pearce & Friends (dickpearce. com). Dick and co. have been handcrafting their ‘bellyboards’ for decades, using sustainable materials, and their slick design means you’re guaranteed a thrilling ride in the tide.
WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK CORNISH pasties are delicious at any time of year. The distinctive D-shaped delights come with an interesting past.
Many years ago, miners in the region needed something