Q&A with...

Caron Walywn, owner of Barataria, St Austell, Cornwall

Barataria, St Austell

Q. How do you feel about winning the ROSE Award?

A. Winning the ROSE Award came as a big surprise and we were shocked when we received the initial letter. We feel proud that the cottages.com team have nominated our property and to be given this prestigious award. We’re hoping that this accolade will open up Barataria to a wider audience, so that even more holidaymakers can come to enjoy this wonderful part of the South West and make some great memories.

Q. What has the response been from guests to your property?

A. The guests have been very positive about the property and we have been privileged to have met some lovely families and couples through running the holiday let. Visitors said that they have felt completely at home and compliment the cleanliness and facilities at the property. They love the location, which is only a stone’s throw away from some of the most popular attractions in the area, including the Eden Project.

Q. How do you provide such excellent customer service?

A. It’s important to us that we provide the best customer service possible to make our guests feel welcome. I meet the guests when they arrive at the property - usually with a cup of tea! It’s always nice to have a chat with them and give them some recommendations about what to see and do in the area. One of my personal favourites is the train down to St Ives. We also have a welcome pack for guests for when they arrive which I fill with wine, bread, scones and beer, which seems to be well received by visitors.

Barataria, St Austell