Review: Three Mile Beach - Luxury Beach Houses in Cornwall
Modern Comfort Meets Coastal Calm At Three Mile Beach — A Review
For an escape that soothes the soul and lets you get back to the essence of living, Three Mile Beach beckons. Immerse yourself in the elemental beauty of Cornwall’s rugged coast.
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Surf-Inspired Beach Houses on Cornwall's Rugged Coast
Tucked along the windswept shores of Cornwall's dramatic northern coastline lies Three Mile Beach, a stunning stretch of golden sand and crashing waves that serves as the backdrop for a one-of-a-kind surf-inspired retreat.
Three Mile Beach is the brainchild of luxury travel maven Craig Burkinshaw and his partner Joanne Le Bon. As the founder of bespoke tour operator Audley Travel, Craig has cultivated an unmatched expertise in crafting extraordinary travel experiences worldwide. This passion and discernment is evident in every detail at Three Mile Beach, where Craig and Joanne have woven together world-class amenities with a deep appreciation for the natural surroundings. Their exquisite eye for design is reflected in the beautifully-appointed beach houses encouraging relaxation and rejuvenation. With Three Mile Beach, the globally-renowned travel experts have created more than just stylish accommodations - they have created a one-of-a-kind coastal escape that allows guests to disconnect, unwind, and reconnect with the sea and each other. This magical destination is the realisation of Craig and Joanne's inspired vision.
I found myself taking deep breaths of the fresh ocean air from the moment I arrived back here at Three Mile Beach. Let’s take a look at what makes this place so magical. While the main draw is the pristine beach itself, the atmosphere and vibe are what truly set this place apart. Three Mile Beach has a come-as-you-are vibe that leaves formalities behind. Barefoot beach strolls, salty hair, wet suits, sand-dusted toes – it’s all part of the laid-back lifestyle. Here’s our review of Three Mile Beach.
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Escape to Three Mile Beach — The Location
The first thing that strikes you about Three Mile Beach is the location. Nestled amongst the rolling dunes along Gwithian Towans Beach (Towans = Cornish for ‘dunes’), one of Cornwall's most breathtaking stretches of coastline, the Three Mile Beach houses enjoy an enviable location. Comprised of a collection of 15 luxury self-catering 2, 3, and 4 bedroom beach houses (with additional smaller houses being built as we speak and available to book in 2024), Three Mile Beach offers a unique way to experience this beautiful section of coastline. The beach houses seem designed not just to admire the surrounding landscape but become one with it.
Three Mile Beach gets its name from its length, an incredible expanse of golden sand perfect for long walks, swimming, surfing and simply sitting back and enjoying the soothing sights and sounds. The retreat offers the ultimate way to experience the rugged beauty characteristic of northern Cornwall. From secluded coves to crashing waves against craggy cliffs, the surrounding scenery captivates.
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Laid-Back Beach House Style
Each of the beach houses is brimming with character and exudes breezy, coastal style with an eclectic global twist. The beach houses fuse together California-inspired beach house comfort with Nomad and Bohemian interior influences.
The beach houses embody a gorgeous yet understated coastal aesthetic. Sophisticated while still exuding seaside charm, the homes blend upscale amenities with casual comfort for a relaxed vibe. Spacious and airy open floor plans allow the natural light to stream in uninterrupted, creating a bright and breezy atmosphere. The overall look and feel is elevated but not pretentious - the perfect balance of coastal chic that makes you feel right at home in this coastal paradise. The designers have crafted an interior style that speaks to the laid-back luxury of its prime coastal location.
Joyful seafoam and turquoise and vibrant spots of pink, crisp white shiplap walls, natural materials and intricate patterns drawn from Moroccan and Indian motifs create a visual feast. Reclaimed woods, woven textiles and artwork collected from travels abroad add layers of texture and charm. Every corner reveals a new detail that captures the spirit of coastal living. Pops of colour come from Turkish rugs, vibrant textiles, and exotic tapestries reminiscent of far-flung locales. I love the unique touches such as the handcrafted ceramic chandeliers and woven light pendants that really speak to the coastal setting.
The open living spaces transition seamlessly to expansive decks, inviting the outdoors in. Thoughtfully curated to feel welcoming without pretence, Three Mile Beach's interiors provide a tranquil, modern take on breezy coastal style. You get the ultimate beach house experience, elevated by global accents collected from across continents.
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The Guest Experience at Three Mile Beach
A stay at one of Three Mile Beach's luxury beach houses isn't just a vacation - it's an experience. From the moment you arrive, every detail has been thoughtfully curated to create an atmosphere of seaside relaxation and indulgence.
The outdoor areas invite you to bask in the sea breeze with BBQ facilities, hammocks for lounging, and plenty of space to just hang out and decompress. Active endeavours are made easy with on-site wetsuit and surfboard hire along with convenient outdoor racks to store equipment. In the evenings, you can get cosy in front of the wood-burning fireplace for that quintessential hygge experience. The sunken cedar hot tub and relaxing barrel sauna provide places to unwind outdoor (may I recommend watching the stars from the hot tub…) and you may even catch a stunning sunset while soaking.
Indoors, the beach houses feel like a home away from home with upscale amenities and thoughtful touches. Sink into the soft Egyptian cotton-dressed super king beds after an exciting day of coastal adventures. The spacious, modern kitchen (designed by a Bulthaup designer) comes fully-equipped with top-of-the-line cookware to craft culinary masterpieces (did I mention that there is a wine fridge too… enough said!). And why not treat your tastebuds to bespoke culinary delights courtesy of a talented private chef who can cater to your every craving during your stay at Three Mile Beach; or even enjoy a fun pizza party, or head over to Chomp where head chef Olly serves up small and large colourful plates of locally sourced ‘deliciousness’.
For nights in, enjoy the entertainment options including a 50-inch smart TV to stream shows and movies, an assortment of board games, and a hand-picked book collection to please any literary taste; or simply sink into the comfy sofas and watch the grasses sway in the wind through the large round windows (I found this very soothing for the soul).
Perhaps the best part of the Three Mile Beach experience is the attention to detail. Three Mile Beach has teamed up with Land&Water to offer guests a unique experience steeped in the philosophy of 'active relaxation' — embodied in their mood-boosting care products. I personally use their products in my own home and can truly speak to their nourishing and uplifting qualities. Furthermore, a customised welcome hamper overflows with local goodies such as scones and clotted cream, teas and Cornish coffees, a selection of spices for that BBQ experience, and not to forget the pre-stocked fridge with a bottle of bubbly, beers and cool drinks. A handwritten welcome note adds a personal touch. Well, and dogs are treated like VIPs. Dog-friendly amenities like beds, bowls, teats and towels make four-legged guests feel right at home. The properties truly cater to the whole family.
“The interiors satisfy on all levels, seamlessly blending comfort, character and coastal cool. The truly laidback ambiance keeps the design from feeling overdone. For a one-of-a-kind beach retreat that stimulates the senses, Three Mile Beach’s eclectic yet thoughtful fusion of nomad style and coastal comfort is a magnificent find.”
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Activities at Three Mile Beach and Nearby
With its spectacular beachside location, Three Mile Beach offers the perfect home base for enjoying an array of exhilarating water sports and coastal activities. Here are some top things to experience during your stay:
Hit the Waves - With its prime position on the northern Cornish coast, Three Mile Beach is a surfer's paradise. Rent a board and wetsuit right on the premises to catch the consistent swells and waves offshore. You can book a surf lesson with Global Boarders right on your doorstep! The beach houses make it easy with designated outdoor racks to store your gear. Paddle-boarding and kite surfing are also fantastic ways to pass an afternoon.
Practice Beach Yoga - The beach is a sanctuary for mental relaxation and tranquility. Alicia Ray Wellbeing offers an enchanting and rejuvenating experience for yoga enthusiasts right at Gwithian beach. If you're seeking a transformative wellness practice that aligns with nature's rhythm, beach yoga is the perfect choice.
Stroll Godrevy Beach - Just south of Three Mile Beach lies the expansive golden sands of Godrevy Beach. Stretch your legs on a walk along this National Trust site, stopping to admire the lighthouse standing tall offshore on Godrevy Island. Spot seals sunning themselves on the rocks along the way.
Follow the Coastal Path - Some of Cornwall's most dramatic coastal scenery awaits discovery on the Southwest Coast Path. Follow this trail along towering cliffs covered in heather and gorse to secluded coves only accessible on foot. Don't miss the Cuckoo Rock just north of Three Mile Beach for panoramic cliff views.
Marvel at Godrevy Point - Situated between Three Mile Beach and Godrevy Beach, Godrevy Point deserves special mention for its breathtaking natural beauty. Vivid blue waters swirl around the jagged granite point. At low tide, explore the rock pools and caves revealed along the golden shore. Grab a coffee at the chic beach cafe onsite.
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Top Spots for Seaside Bites near Three Mile Beach
From laidback cafes to restaurants dishing up the region's freshest fare, here are some must-try eateries near Three Mile Beach:
The Hungry Horsebox - This quirky converted horsebox-turned-food-truck, located right on Godrevy Beach's golden sands, churns out piping hot pasties, melts, fish tacos and more. Outdoor picnic tables make it easy to enjoy the views. I love their chai lattes and if you feel peckish, I can recommend their brisket chilli nachos.
The Jam Pot – This beloved local spot serves up hearty full English breakfasts, baked goods fresh from the oven, and Cornish ice cream. The Jam Pot Cafe is a charming taste of authentic Cornwall.
Sunset Surf - Situated along the dunes at Gwithian Towans Beach, mere steps from Three Mile Beach, this super casual beachside hangout is the perfect spot to grab a cuppa. Watch the waves while noshing on tapas, wood-fired pizzas, or enjoy a beer.
Godrevy Café - Adjacent to the picturesque Godrevy Point along the coastal path, this cafe's expansive patio offers front-row ocean views. Locally-roasted coffee, all-day breakfasts and classic lunch fare satisfy.
The Rockpool - For a relaxed dining experience after a surf, check out The Rockpool, a good 15-minute walk from Three Mile Beach. Feast on fresh-caught seafood alongside unparalleled sunset views.
Chomp - For delicious food without leaving the Three Mile Beach retreat, visit Chomp - the on-site cafe serving up meals, snacks, and Cornish treats in their alfresco dining area, and you don’t have to worry about the weather as they have heaters, soft blankets, and cozy beach huts to huddle up in. Enjoy!
“With the Atlantic crashing against rocky cliffs and headlands to the north and the sweeping expanse of St Ives Bay, Three Mile Beach becomes the focal point of this truly breathtaking landscape. The immediate coastline of vestigial dunes, cavernous blowholes, and offshore reefs epitomises the wild beauty of northern Cornwall. Three Mile Beach offers front row access to experience this stunning coastal setting in its raw, natural form.”
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Three Mile Beach - The Final Verdict
Three Mile Beach, in its essence, is an embodiment of pure escapism and a sense of freedom. It’s a place that has character and creativity flowing through their veins. This is coastal living in an unpretentious way, and I absolutely adore it! For a coastal retreat abundant in global charm, coastal vibes and bohemian spirit, Three Mile Beach hits the sweet spot. The location is spectacular, but the style makes it truly special. At Three Mile Beach, time really does slow down and is only measured by the tides…
Its unique charm lies in its ability to offer a space where the frenzy of daily life ebbs away, and the tranquillity of nature takes centre stage. The beach houses, nestled amidst the golden dunes of Cornwall, offer a down-to-earth luxury that is both comforting and lavish. The fluid blend of coastal style and contemporary design captures the essence of laid-back luxury, inviting guests to unwind and reconnect in an environment that's as invigorating as it is serene. The freedom that Three Mile Beach offers is not only physical - the vast outdoor spaces, the invigorating activities - but also mental, a freedom that comes with the quiet understanding that here, you can truly let go and be present in the moment.
Our stay at Three Mile Beach was an unforgettable experience that we can't wait to repeat. The pristine shoreline, stylish beach houses, and wealth of activities made this the ideal coastal retreat. Each day we awoke to the soothing sound of waves outside our door, eager to make the most of this coastal paradise. Sun-filled days were spent surfing, beachcombing, and exploring coastal trails along the craggy cliffs and dunes. Now back home, we're already dreaming of returning to our Three Mile Beach haven and doing it all again. I highly recommend this incredible destination to anyone looking for a laidback escape surrounded by ocean, nature, and good company. Just book one of these magical beach houses and let the seaside memories begin.
5/5 stars!
>> Three Mile Beach Website
>> Where To Find Three Mile Beach
(This is not a sponsored review. This review is based on two visits, year-on-year, Sep ‘22 and Oct ‘23)
“The effortlessly stylish beach houses of Three Mile Beach mirror their idyllic seaside setting in northern Cornwall. Whitewashed walls and weathered cedar shingles blend harmoniously with the surrounding dunes. The architecture embraces its coastal location, with homes nestled into the landscape to be one with the raw beauty of this special stretch of shoreline.”
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