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Christmas at Crantock
A bracing walk along the beach before breakfast, freshly ground Olfactory coffee whilst admiring the view and a dip in a warm indoor pool to build up an appetite for a festive feast. Does this sound like your perfect Christmas break?
Here are our 5 favourite things about celebrating Christmas at Crantock Bay:
1. The location
Perched above Crantock beach, with a view that you can sit and watch for hours, the apartments are in an enviable position. The journey to the beach is by foot here. During the winter months there’s plenty of space for children, grown-ups, and dogs to blow off steam. Then it’s a short walk back to hunker down with a hot drink.
2. Food & drink
Serving food and drinks every day except for Christmas Day and Boxing Day, C-Bay Bar & Bistro offers everything from great coffee to locally caught sustainable fish, home-baked cakes, and delicious cocktails. Our apartments have fully equipped kitchens – but there’s every excuse not to cook!
3. The spa
From manicures and pedicures to spa rituals and spa days, the experienced team offer a wonderful range of treatments from the tranquil therapy rooms. There’s also a relaxation area, indoor heated pool and spa bath – with floor to ceiling windows overlooking the gardens and out to sea. Not forgetting the tennis court, with probably the best sea view in the country.
4. Dog friendly
We wouldn’t want to spend Christmas without our canine companions, they’re part of the family. Many of the apartments are dog friendly and C-Bay Bar & Bistro is too. Add in the beach and a huge selection of local walks and you’re in doggy heaven.
5. The apartments
Light, bright and with incredible views. The apartments are all unique but share the same outlook. They’re practical yet luxurious and are perfect for hunkering down when the sun goes down, or when bad weather rolls in – storm watching can be quite spectacular. On blue sky days the balconies are perfect for sitting on and staring out to sea.
Don’t miss our Christmas shopping evening on Wednesday 24th November, 5 – 8pm. Enjoy a glass of complimentary bubbles whilst browsing local craft stalls, offering stocking fillers to jewellery and photography. The lovely spa ladies will be on hand doing mini manicures and advising on Made for Life Organics.
Find our Christmas availability here. There is currently some availability in apartments sleeping 4-6 people (some of which are dog friendly). For further information, please call us on 01637 830229.
Our favourite family things to do this summer
With the school summer holidays just around the corner (I know, we can’t believe it either), we’ve put together a list of some of our favourite things to do with the family within a short drive of Crantock Bay.
Learn to surf
We’re surrounded by fabulous beaches which are great for surfing, but there’s no better than the one right on our doorstep – Crantock Bay. If you’re yet to try surfing, we’d highly recommend a lesson with the Big Green Surf School. They’re family friendly, provide all the equipment you’ll need and have amazing coaches.
If you prefer to stick to calmer water, they also do SUP tours and lessons in the nearby Gannel estuary too!
Try your hand at golf
Challenge the kids to a round of mini golf, or if you’re looking for more of a challenge, pitch and putt (watch out for the cliff-hanging 18th hole!) Both can be found close by at Holywell Bay Golf. With coastal views and well-kept greens, it’s a great way to spend an afternoon outdoors.
Head off on a sea safari
Take a 2-hour trip out to Seal Cove with Newquay Sea Safaris, stopping to see birds and marine wildlife on the way. You’ll learn about Newquay’s maritime history and the marine habitat as you cruise along too. After speeding out to deeper water there’s an opportunity to look for dolphins, basking sharks and sunfish – an experience which the whole family will enjoy.
There’s also shark cage diving for the slightly braver…
(2018) Colin Antrobus
Visit Blue Hills Tin Streams
Learn about tin production on a self-guided tour at Blue Hills in St Agnes. Tin has been produced in the valley for the past 40 years and is worked under a special licence from the Duchy of Cornwall. Hand tools are used to collect the tin carefully – an ancient type of mining which has taken place for thousands of years.
On a walk around the site, learn about how the ore is extracted and meet the craftsmen who dress it, smelt it, refine it and make it into the end product – such as jewellery and giftware.
Walk the Newquay Discovery Trail
Explore secrets of the past on the Newquay Discovery Trail. You’ll find slate disks in the ground at key places of interest around the town. Each slate is numbered and links to a map – so you can learn facts about your location whilst admiring the view. A brilliant way to explore Newquay without a car!
There are two walks which make up the trail, one which takes a coastal route and the other which takes in some of the coast before moving inland – passing through the gardens and boating lake, as well as other attractions.
Pick up a copy of the Discovery Trail Map from the Visit Newquay Tourist Information Centre.
Cornwall for dog lovers
A family holiday needs to cater for the whole family – and for many of our visitors that includes a four-legged friend. The good news is that Cornwall is full of great dog-friendly things to see and do. Here are some of our favourites.
Sand between your paws
There are so many incredible beaches to choose from in Cornwall, but always check if dogs are welcome, as some beaches have dog bans during the busier months.
We’re lucky to have Crantock Beach right on our doorstep. It’s cared for by the National Trust and was voted the Best British Beach by BBC Coast in 2013. Dogs are welcome on the beach all year round. The huge stretch of sand and dunes are a perfect place for dogs to play.
Holywell Beach is also dog-friendly all year round and is very close to Crantock Bay. This stunning beach was used as a location for filming of the BBC’s Poldark series.
Mawgan Porth beach is halfway between Newquay and Padstow. Surrounded by stunning cliffs, dogs are welcome all year round.
Days out with doggies
Cornwall’s iconic Eden Project was voted the world’s best location for walking dogs in 2018. Dogs are welcome in all outdoor areas, so you will have miles of beautiful gardens to explore. However, please bear in mind that dogs are not allowed into the biomes. You can find out more about Eden’s dog-friendly facilities here.
Lappa Valley is a big hit with families, thanks to its steam trains, paddle boats and play parks. And the good news is that dogs are welcome too. Located in the countryside just outside Newquay, Lappa Valley is just a short drive from Crantock Bay.
Dogs are also welcome on boat trips run by Newquay Sea Safari and Fishing and the captain even keeps dog biscuits onboard. Explore the North Cornwall coast and see Newquay from the sea. The boat trips include cruises to hidden coves and secret beaches to meet wildlife up close in their natural environment.
Paws for a pint – dog friendly pubs and restaurants
Our very own C-Bay Bar and Bistro welcomes dogs and their owners for coffee, food and drinks throughout the day. With comfy seating and an unsurpassed view of the coastline, it’s the perfect place to relax after a run on the beach below.
Beach bars don’t come much better than the Watering Hole, which is right in the middle of Perranporth Beach – a nine-mile drive from Crantock Bay. Walk your dog on the miles of golden sands of Perranporth then pop into the Watering Hole for a tasty lunch.
The Hawkins Arms in Probus, near Truro, has been voted Cornwall’s best pub on TripAdvisor. Visitors praise its great food and warm welcome – which extends to dogs too!
Dogs are welcome at the courtyard tables at Rick Stein’s Café in Padstow. A great place for coffee, lunch, or an evening meal, where freshly caught fish is sure to be on the menu.
Woodland walks
Cardinham Woods has miles of paths to explore with your dog – and after you’ve stretched your legs, you can enjoy a delicious Cornish cream tea at the Woods café (jam first of course!)
Idless Woods near Truro is another great place to walk. There are a variety of different paths to explore, including a circular path, or you can head straight up the hill from the car park to walk along the peak of the woodland.
Our favourite things to do during half term
February is a great time to visit Cornwall. The days are getting longer and no matter what the weather has in store, there’s lots to see and do within a short drive of Crantock Bay.
Here are 10 of our favourite activities to enjoy with the family:
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Visit the beach
The only difficulty with visiting a beach is choosing which one – you will be spoiled for choice! Crantock beach is just minutes away from us and is perfect for surfing, walking, or just stopping to watch the waves.
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Newquay Discovery Trail
Pop into Newquay Information Centre to pick up a copy of the Newquay Discovery Trail for £2 and discover the secrets of Newquay’s past. There are two walks to follow, which take in the town’s main attractions. Along the trail you’ll find numbered slate discs embedded in the ground. Find the number on your map to discover fascinating facts about your location.
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Blue Reef Aquarium
There’s lots going on at Newquay’s Blue Reef Aquarium this half term. On 15 February you can meet a real life mermaid and across half term week the Aquarium is running ocean explorers to give you an insight into the fascinating creatures at the aquarium.
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Pirate’s Quest
Taking inspiration from the Mayflower voyage, Newquay’s Pirate’s Quest is a walk-through attraction that will take you on an adventure discovering ‘Pirates of the New World’. Calico Jack’s crew of live pirate performers will guide wannabe Jack Sparrow’s through authentic sets and scenes and introduce visitors to the real 17th century buccaneers. Pre-booking online is recommended.
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Cardinham Woods
Pack your wellies for a day outside in the stunning surroundings of Cardinham Woods. Just 35 minutes by car from Crantock Bay, the woods have four different walks and three cycling routes. Over February half term they also have a Shaun the Sheep Farmaggedon Glow Trail. Mobile signal is patchy at the woods, so download the App before you arrive. You can then buy an activity pack for £3.50 when you get there and follow the Trail and solve puzzles with Shaun the Sheep around the woods.
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Lanhydrock
You can find Lanhydrock half an hour away from us. Join the Lanhydrock National Trust Rangers on 16 February for a day packed with 50 Things To Do Before You’re 11 ¾. Make your own mud creation, cook on a campfire, find mini beasts in the Victorian swimming pool and much more around the estate. You can also grab a copy of the half term birds trail and follow it around the formal garden.
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National Lobster Hatchery
Become a mini marine biologist at the National Lobster Hatchery in Padstow. Just 35 minutes by car, the National Lobster Hatchery is running drop-in sessions from 16-22 February between 11am and 3pm where you can meet the baby lobsters and get involved in some hands-on activities.
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Eden Project
The Eden Project is a must for any trip to Cornwall. Just 40 minutes away by car, this half term the Eden Project will be awash with colour, for “Colour Uncovered” – a week of creative activities exploring how art meets science in the incredible world of colour. Activities include mask making, marble painting and paper weaving. Follow the colour trail around the biomes, learn about how fabric dyes are made and investigate the natural world of colour in the Eden Project Lab.
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Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum in Falmouth is a great place to visit if the weather forces you indoors and it’s just a 40 minute drive from Crantock Bay. From 17 to 21 February, the Maritime Museum is running Science of the Sea, a live science show with everything from magical fog to exploding water. Also, on 16 February from 11am to 4pm, illustrator Becky Thorns will be celebrating the wonderful World of Whales to celebrate the launch of her new book.
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Snowdrop Sunday at Pencarrow House
Witness the first signs of spring with the beautiful snowdrops at Pencarrow House on 16 February from 10am to 4pm. This is a charity event with a suggested donation of £5 (cash only) going to CLEAR and Parkinson’s Research. Pencarrow House is a 40-minute drive from us.
Why visit Cornwall during the winter?
Winter in Cornwall is dramatic, beautiful and romantic – and it’s often the time of year that you’ll hear about in old Cornish tales of smuggling, novels and sea shanties. It could be said that it’s the real, raw side of the county, that many visitors never get to experience.
Although rarely cold, Cornwall’s position on the coast means it can be wet and it’s often wild. Huge Atlantic swells create perfect conditions for avid storm watchers – a pastime that has grown in popularity in recent years. As long as it’s done safely, there’s little that can beat the sheer power and spectacle of a winter storm –especially if viewed from the warmth of an apartment or C-Bay Bar & Bistro.
The beaches are considerably quieter during the winter and with the rules relaxed in many places that aren’t dog accessible all year round, your four-legged friend can enjoy a good run on the sand. There may even be a surfer or two to watch in the water (from the comfort of a warm coat and hat from dry land!)
During the summer, popular tourist hotspots such as St Ives, Padstow and Newquay can get very busy. Parking can be tricky at the height of the season, with shops, restaurants and the surrounding beaches packed with visitors. Fast forward to the winter months and there’s space to explore, tables to choose from and every chance you’ll have the coast path to yourself. Should the weather turn damp, there’s plenty to do indoors too.
If the dramatic landscapes, Atlantic swell and quieter towns aren’t enough to tempt you to visit during the winter, perhaps the lure of cosy pubs with roaring fires and delicious comfort food will. Fish and chips, freshly baked Cornish pasties and cream teas somehow taste even better when devoured after a blustery walk on the beach…
What to see and do around Cornwall this Christmas
Cornwall is a great place to visit during the festive season. Packed full of things to do and see, from twinkling light displays to Christmas markets, there’s sure to be something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of our favourites that we think you’ll love.
Festive light displays
Our favourite light display is of course the one you’ll find in Crantock village – just moments away from us. However, if you’re looking to make an evening of it, there are some fantastic ones a little further away.
Mousehole’s famous display, which lights up the streets, harbour walls and even the water is truly magical. The switch on takes place at 6.30pm on Saturday 14th December and the lights will be on every evening (except Thursday 19th) until the 5th January. We recommend also visiting Angarrack’s stunning display – which you’ll find on the way to (or back from) Mousehole. There you’ll find the twelve days of Christmas and even some sneaky crocodiles!
There are many other towns and villages which put a huge amount of effort into their Christmas lights. Just a few of the ones we’d suggest visiting include Carnon Downs, Truro, Falmouth and Leedstown.
Christmas markets
You won’t be short of choice when it comes to Christmas shopping in Cornwall.
Head to one of the many events taking place, including the Padstow Christmas Festival, Healeys Christmas Market, Country House Christmas at Trevince, Truro Christmas Market and many more. Bursting with amazing food, drink, gifts and more, there’s no better way to get into the festive spirit.
Festival of Christmas
Head to the Eden Project this Christmas and be entertained by a joyful chorus of some of Cornwall’s finest musicians. A cast of 21 will be playing festive songs in the Mediterranean Biome on the evenings that they’re open late. On your way there, walk through the spectacular Avenue of Lights to the Biomes, where giant willow lanterns, modelled on our planet’s most precious creatures, light up the night. Then take a spin on the ice rink or enjoy a glass of mulled wine.
Santa by steam
All aboard! Take a trip with the railway elves to visit Santa’s grotto. Arrive at Bodmin General Station for mince pies, festive drinks and carols on the platform, before enjoying an hour-long return journey on a steam train. There’s plenty of time to visit Santa, with gifts for each child.
Watch a Christmas panto
You won’t want to miss Aladdin at the Lane Theatre in Newquay! The story may be familiar but expect a modern twist. Running between 12th – 14th December, early booking is advised to avoid disappointment.
Enjoy Christmas & New Year at Crantock Bay
With Christmas just around the corner, we’re looking forward to the festive season and welcoming guests and customers to our apartments, spa and café. With plenty going on over the next couple of months, there’s lots to look forward to here at Crantock Bay.
Wake up to this view on Christmas Day
If you’re thinking about escaping somewhere beautiful this Christmas, why not enjoy a fantastic break in a luxurious property overlooking the stunning Crantock Bay? Book in for Christmas lunch at C-Bay Café, Bar & Bistro and take away the hassle of preparing the meal yourself, instead enjoying the extra time with your friends and loved ones.
Alternatively, book for New Year and kick start 2020 in style. C-Bay will be open every day including New Year’s Eve ensuring you have everything you need for the perfect break.
For those feeling particularly brave, the New Year’s Day open swim on Crantock Beach is a must! Treat yourself to one of our delicious all-day breakfasts in C-Bay afterwards whilst you kick back, relax and enjoy the view.
Don’t miss our Christmas shopping event
The Christmas fun isn’t just reserved for our guests! Head over and join us on Wednesday 27th November between 5-8pm for an evening of Christmas shopping.
A great opportunity to pick up the perfect gifts for friends and family, you’ll find everything from stocking fillers to locally made silver jewellery available from the craft stalls. With a complimentary glass of fizz on arrival as well as the chance to be treated to a quick ‘shape and paint’ by the spa girls, you’ll leave feeling pampered as well as festive!
Make the most of our festive spa offers
For those in need of a little time out this winter, we have three new packages that are perfect for a pre-Christmas pamper.
Whether you opt for the Silver option which includes a mince pie, glass of prosecco and 30 minute treatment, the Gold option with its two course lunch, glass of prosecco or mulled wine and 30 minute treatment or Platinum offering which boasts a two course lunch or dinner from the Christmas menu, glass of prosecco or mulled wine and 30 minute treatment, you can be sure you’ll leave feeling relaxed and ready for the festivities ahead. Free use of our indoor heated pool and spa bath as well as use of a towel and robe are also included with each package.
Treat yourself to breakfast, lunch or dinner with a view
Open for breakfast and lunch each day, as well as dinner on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, C-Bay boasts unsurpassed views over Crantock Beach making it the perfect place to enjoy the Cornish coast whilst staying warm, comfortable and enjoying some delicious dishes.
Dogs are welcome too so if you’re enjoying a brisk walk along the beach, you can retreat to the warmth afterwards for some coffee, cake or something more substantial!
From Thursday 12th December we will be offering our Christmas menu for lunch and dinner – you can book your table here. There are even a few spaces left for Christmas day but hurry, we’re almost full!
