Salterton
Trelights, Port Isaac, Cornwall, UK
There was a time when folk were drawn to the coast for its restorative powers. When the practice of "sea bathing" became synonymous with wellbeing, the mineral-rich waters and bracing air promising renewal for body and spirit. Coastal villages like Port Isaac and Polzeath became havens for those seeking nature's remedy, and luxury Victorian manors like Salterton—now with a pool and fine interiors—were built as their hubs of recreation.
Introduction
A period home with a modern edit, this Victorian manor is the triumph of an intentional restoration. There’s still all the blueprints of the era in the form of functional floorplans and tall ceilings that allow for the circulation of Cornwall's curative ocean air; but nods to the nouvelle, like the addition of a pool, mean that the luxury manse of today is a far cry from the times of etiquette manuals, gothic revivals, and Brontë sisters. With an interest in the creative arts, its new custodians might've been captivated by those brickwork piers and kaleidoscopes of glass, but they had a nostalgic agenda for the former hotel: it should become a family home, full of life, contextual in its seaside setting. And so emerged Salterton.
Inside
It has all the hallmarks of bourgeois: bay windows, ornamental coving, and fabrics that show a soft spot for brocade and velvet. Eclectic accents, too, mean gilded frames still hang above the mantelpiece, and a rich colour palette of burgundies and peacock blues reflect the prevailing tastes of the romantic era. But within these finely proportioned rooms, there’s just enough newness to anchor the manor in a century of design and innovation: a movie projector, maybe the most Upper East Side bathroom suite in the county, and a Bauhaus kitchen comprised of clean lines and hulking ingots of wood. Think of it as a holistic overhaul, a glimpse into the past that manages to be practically perfect for a modern-day seaside retreat.
Outside
It's a life of picnicking and beachcombing, of sailing and naturalist discoveries. Near the fishing village of Port Isaac, Salterton sits within one of Cornwall's most sought-after stretches of coastline, where hidden swimming coves and powder-soft beaches await. This familiar morsel of the north coast served as backdrop for the fictional town of Portwenn in Doc Martin. An enlivening creative scene unfolds around the working harbour and it's not uncommon to hear the folk shanties of Fisherman's Friends, or stumble upon artists at work. The area is renowned for its sublime surf breaks and Michelin-starred restaurants; within touching distance are some of the best seafood plates in the land.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 14 guests
From £4,750 per week, £3,595 per short break - Bedrooms and bathroomsThere are seven en suite bedrooms at this luxury Victorian manor, split between the first and second floor. There is an extra shower and WC in the pool house.
View bedrooms - FeaturesOutdoor heated swimming pool available May – September, games room with pool table, gym, firepit
- PetsTwo well-behaved dogs are welcome
Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 5pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyBabies and children are very welcome. One cot and one highchair are available.
- PracticalitiesThere is off-road parking for seven cars. The kitchen has an oven, induction hob, dishwasher, microwave, fridge, wine fridge, and freezer. The utility room contains a washing machine and tumble dryer. There is underfloor heating throughout. Please note that the pool is not enclosed, so do exercise due diligence if you are travelling with children or dogs. There are CCTV cameras at the entrance points to the property for security purposes. There is a sheltered pool area with a pool house, and an out-building containing the gym, office, and games room. The outdoor space has been planted with a myriad of bulbs, but has not yet matured. The house manager resides in a separate property within the grounds; while they have use of the private driveway, they will be discreet and not disturb your stay.
- Homestay includesA luxury welcome hamper, iPad, Wi-Fi internet, Smart TVs and movie projector, Linn sound system, Nespresso coffee machine, Big Green Egg charcoal barbecue, fire pit, pool table, gym equipment (free weights, bench, exercise bike, yoga equipment, and cable machine), books and board games, luxury bed linens, towels, and bathrobes, and logs and kindling to get you started.House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more
- Private cateringSeeking a celebratory dinner or fully catered escape? Our recommended caterers will work with you to create personalised menus for your stay. Details are shared through our house book on confirming your booking.
- RetreatsFrom surf lessons to dawn yoga and adrenalin-fuelled adventures, we work with the most inspirational of experts to ensure a truly tailored stay. On confirmation of booking, these details will be shared within your house book.
- Eco-friendlyElectric car charging point, solar panels, sedum roof, ground source heating, air source heating
- RestrictionsPlease note the property best lends itself to multi-generational family groups, parties are not permitted.
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questionsView floor plan
Prices & Availability
Port Isaac
You might recognise it from Doc Martin, but Port Isaac is something of a hub in the Cornish north, attracting foodies and culture-fiends in their droves; think sea-to-spoon menus, and a world-renowned folk band who might be sipping ale within its smattering of pubs.
Getting there
- On the Map This luxury Victorian manor is located in the hamlet of Trelights, near the famous working harbour of Port Isaac on the North Cornwall coast.
- By Car Salterton is less than ten minutes from Port Isaac, one hour from Dartmoor, one-and-a-half hours from Exeter, and five hours from London.
- By Train Bodmin Parkway station is thirty minutes away by car. There are regular trains from London Paddington with Great Western Railways, with a journey time of four-and-a-half hours.
- By Air Cornwall Airport is thirty minutes away, Exeter Airport is one-and-a-half hours away, and London Heathrow Airport is four hours away by car.
From the owner
“For us, the location is the jewel in Salterton´s crown; its position overlooking Port Isaac is idyllic. On a Sunday, there´s no better way to round off the weekend than a visit to the village, and a supper of Cornish crab and crisp white wine.”
We love how much character Port Isaac has, with its old cottages, fresh catch, and the chance of spotting our local folk band, Fisherman's Friends. The village is known for its excellent seafood, with fish caught daily and apportioned among the little restaurants and whitewashed pubs.
The house itself is a spacious Victorian build, and enjoys the unspoilt beauty of this part of the coast. It offers the ultimate in quiet and seclusion, set away from the busy beaches, and safely tucked behind closed gates. Its all en suite bedrooms and pool house mean there's plenty of places to relax, read, or play in peace; plus desks and a study for anyone who might choose to work remotely here.
Outside, bulbs were planted in their hundreds, and we are so excited to see what a few more springs and summers will do to the garden; its sheltered aspect means that we should have a flourishing array of pinks and greens. There's coastal walks from the door, and the best swimming spot on the north coast can be found in Port Quinn.
We think our house is truly special and hope that you see it as we do.
Bertrand & Sarah
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Port Isaac with an insider’s perspective.
To Eat
Nathan Outlaw
We recommend both of the outstanding Michelin-starred "elevated seafood" restaurants run by Nathan Outlaw: New Road and Fish Kitchen. We walk to the latter across the fields.
To Eat
St Kew Inn
In the pretty village of St Kew, good food and local ales can be enjoyed beside the log fire in our favourite dog-friendly inn. Its owners have even won awards for making space for nature.
To See
Days out in North Cornwall
There are so many wonderful days out, from the Padstow to Rock ferry across the River Camel, to paddle boarding from Daymer to Hawker’s Cove, to strawberry picking at Trevathan Farm.
To Do
Saunas by the Sea
Nestled between the headlands above Polzeath Beach, this woodfired sauna encourages good health, balance, and tranquillity. The brave can even combine it with a dip in the sea.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
complete an image bank request
25 of the best autumn getaways
The Times
November 2024Good manors
Condé Nast Traveller
November 2024Ways to improve your life—from our experts
The Times
October 2024The UK´s most relaxing riverside stays
The Times
October 2024At one with nature
25 Beautiful Homes
September 2024Healing waters
Condé Nast Traveller
September 202425 of the UK´s best lakeside stays
The Times
September 2024Highland fling
25 Beautiful Homes
September 2024
Collections > Coastal Retreats > UK > Cornwall > Port Isaac > Salterton
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Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.
