Raffia
Polperro, Cornwall, UK
Cocooned by Monterey pines and overlooking the open sea, Raffia enjoys a sheltered cliffside position above the quaint fishing cove of Polperro. Surrounded by the beauty of the South East Cornwall coast, this self-catering beach house has scrumptious sea views and is accessed via quad bike or footpath, making it all the more an adventure. Come here to escape the everyday and experience the luxury life in a blissfully remote way.
Introduction
Approached via a steep, zigzagging path which cuts down the cliff at Polperro, this coastal self-catering retreat is the epitome of escapism. Starting life as an army hut, years later the plot was cleared and on it, Raffia transformed into the unique luxury dwelling it is today. Playfully exhibiting a beachy, Scandinavian style, there are floor-to-ceiling glass leading onto a wooden deck where guests can spend hours overlooking the glistening ocean. Enjoy a distraction-free existence at Raffia and refocus on the most important things in life.
Inside
With no television (though there is a projector screen for family film nights), guests are encouraged to while away time reading, painting or reclining on the sofa listening to the radio whilst the ocean glistens away alongside. Huge windows make the most of the stunning views come rain or shine, whilst the woodburner takes care of winter nights hurling out scrumptious warmth. A year-round haven, the lack of buzzing technologies and clever merging of indoor-outdoor space gives an authentic 'retreat' vibe, where relaxation reigns.
Outside
The indelible Raffia is set high above Polperro harbour; a quaint fishing village with a lost-in-time appeal one can't help but fall in love with. Walk from the house along the coast path to discover the warren of narrow alleyways, fishermen's cottages and boat houses that combine to make this old smuggler's hideout so quintessentially Cornish. Whether swimming in the crystal-clear shallows of the harbour or exploring the popular towns of Looe and Fowey nearby, there's myth and magic hidden around every corner.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 6 guests
From £2,250 per week, £1,650 per short break - Alternative group optionUp to 2 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsOn the first floor is one double bedroom with king-size bed and en suite, one twin bedroom and a family bathroom with overhead shower. On the ground floor is a double bedroom with king-size bed and en suite shower room.
View bedrooms - PetsOne well-behaved dog is welcome
Pets are charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyBabes-in-arms and children over four are very welcome. One cot and one highchair are available.
- PracticalitiesThere are three parking spaces at the top of the cliff and a steep zigzag path leads down to the property, so please note that the access may not be convenient for those with limited mobility. Backpacks and trainers will be more suitable than cases and heels! The path can become slippery when wet, please take care if it is raining or has recently been raining. Guests can contact the quad bike taxis in Polperro, who offer a complimentary service ferrying luggage and passengers up the cliff directly to the house. The kitchen has an electric oven with gas hob, a large fridge-freezer, microwave and dishwasher.
- Homestay includesLuxury welcome hamper, bottle of bubbly, Cornish scones, clotted cream and jam, projector screen for DVDs, iPad, WiFi internet, board games, children´s books, charcoal barbecue, linen, towels, laid fire with logs and kindling to get you startedHouse 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-friendlyUnderfloor heating throughout, powered by an air source heat pump and a solar panel, electric car charging point available
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questions
Prices & Availability
Polperro
An authentic little fishing village tucked away on the south east coast of Cornwall, Polperro has a strong maritime history and oozes Cornish coastal charm, set just down the coast from the busier harbour town of Fowey.
Getting there
- On the Map This unique coastal hideaway nestles into the cliff overlooking the fishing village of Polperro, near Fowey and Looe in South East Cornwall.
- By Air Newquay Airport is an hour from the house whilst Exeter Airport is approximately 90 minutes away.
- By Car From London, take the M4 towards Bath, the M5 South and the A30 to Cornwall, then follow the directions provided to the property.
- By Train The nearest train station is Bodmin, 30 minutes drive away, with regular services to London Paddington.
From the owner
“Raffia is located on a steep cliff and set within large Monterey pines and numerous ever-changing flowers that give the property a secluded feel, though only a short walk from the village. We think the views are mesmerising and made sure that every room had floor-to-ceiling French doors or windows to take advantage of the beautiful scenery.”
We became the very proud custodians of Raffia in 2014. Originally it was an ex-Army hut from the cliffs at Whitsand Bay, from where it was dismantled and taken to Polperro to be lowered down over the cliff.
At the time we purchased Raffia, it was dilapidated but had an interesting history and great potential. I was looking for a new ‘life challenge’, and rebuilding a derelict wood cabin down a steep cliff with no vehicular access appeared to be a great opportunity to do just that!
The first eight months were spent clearing and planning (it was a completely overgrown jungle). The path was re-established and a zip-wire lift, that spanned the 80 meters from the top of the land to the plot, was installed. Every last joist, rafter and panel was hoisted down that lift.
A total of two years later and with the help of a fantastic builder (who happened to be an ex ice climber of the Himalayas), we are very proud to have managed to complete our dream; it’s a very close resemblance to the initial sketch we drew out on the back of an envelope!
The Blum-Nitta family
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Polperro with an insider’s perspective.
To Eat
The Old Sail Loft, Looe
A surefire sign of a good restaurant, The Old Sail Loft on Quay Street is recommended by all people you ask locally. It is also located in one of the oldest buildings in Looe, still largely preserved, dating back at least 450 years.
To Do
Explore Polperro
Home to a large fishing village and harbour, Polperro has long attracted visitors for its quintessentially Cornish scenes. Explore its streets, visit the Polperro Museum and Model Village and reward yourself with an ice cream on the beach.
To Do
Bodmin and Wenford Railway
Experience a bygone era when you climb aboard the Bodmin and Wenford Steam Locomotive and take the 13-mile round trip through breathtaking countryside. An untamed wilderness, Bodmin Moor sprawls 208 square kilometres.
To See
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Real life secret gardens near Mevagissey, the Lost Gardens of Heligan were nearly lost to time. Discovered, saved and opened to the public, they now provide a truly magical day out, brimming with history, romance and intrigue.
Guest Testimonials
Read reviews on TrustPilot and Google
We have absolutely loved our week here! Arrived in darkness on a Friday evening and felt like adventurers descending the path with torches. The arrival was so exciting, and we then discovered just how comfortable and stylish the interiors are. We all slept so well and waking up to the views is something we will never forget. Thank you for the welcome hamper and beautiful fresh flowers.
What a magical and beautiful place Raffia is. I celebrated turning 60 and could not have been a more spectacular spot. We absolutely loved being here. Hope to return very soon.
Celebrating our 16 year wedding anniversary and my 50th birthday, my husband booked Raffia as a wonderful surprise. Thinking it would be another lockdown celebration he was absolutely thrilled that we were able to celebrate in luxury! The house is beyond expectations in every way: spotlessly clean, beautiful furnishings, and as for the location, what can I say? Stunning! Polperro has a lovely, friendly atmosphere - it is very a special and unique place. Thank you, we know our stay will be one we won´t forget, as there is nowhere else we would rather be than on the deck with those wonderful views.
Raffia is one of those oh-so-special places where you feel immediately at home. Perhaps, it is the Scandinavian hygge vibe or the three Monterey Cypress trees. We spent dreamy hours spent gazing over the sea to the horizon in this beautifully cared for space; the housekeeper is incredible. So many lovely touches: scented candles, hand-cut flowers from the garden, and cashmere blankets. We were here for a week of 45mph winds and rain, listening to the radio and relaxing. Hats off to the owners for their inspiration and pioneering spirit. Bliss, bliss, bliss.
The excitement of the zig-zagging cliff path through the bracken and foxgloves to see the mesmerising view over the harbour was amazing. Then there it was; perched proudly on the cliff top! The scandi inspired interiors and the wall to wall glass frontage are just perfect for relaxing as was the large outdoor deck – alfresco lunches and suppers were certainly the order of the day watching the ever changing seascape. We loved being able to walk into Polperro for fresh bread and local fish and the coast path to Fowey or Talland was just at the end of the garden.
I feel very privileged that you shared the house you built with us. There is magic and love in every piece of this house, and for me as a flower lover, the clematis and hydrangea is the vases when we arrived made my heart leap. I have even harvested some clematis seeds so maybe I will be able to grow them in my home in Germany. Today I am sad because it is our last day and I will miss this place which has all my soul needs, the sea from the view of a bird, quietness, wood, beautiful light and it´s family friendly. Thank you so much, and I hope to return very soon.
Five came to Polperro, gasped and slid down the hill helped by storm Callum. We opened the door to a dream home, took turns in the hanging chair, read all the interior books and wished our homes were as classy. We couldn´t take our eyes off the view, walked miles and even BBQ´d in winter! Sitting, mesmerised by the sea, we wished for a lottery win so we could buy Raffia. We gulped in the fresh air, ate our own body weight in cream teas, recycled lots of bottles, did we really drink that much!? A truly memorable, happy, and inspirational holiday!
We´ve had the most wonderful and restful week here in Cornwall. Staying in such a beautiful home has been the cherry on the top. Snuggled under blankets watching a DVD with the rain lashing down and the fire roaring has been idyllic! Those views, just amazing. Thank you for having us to stay in your patch of paradise.
Wow! Thank you for sharing your dream with us. What a stunning property and an amazing achievement. We have had a wonderful week. We were lucky to see a pod of dolphins and had a great boat trip. The pubs and eateries offer extremely good food and friendly service.
I don’t have the right words to say how much we loved staying at Raffia. The House itself made us speechless and we didn’t really explore Cornwall, as the house was too beautiful to leave but further more, the way the house was prepared for us, made me so happy. The Ferns, Clematis and Hydrangea out of the garden were so beautiful in their pureness. These details and the generous welcome basket made us directly feel at home and never want to leave again. I dream of coming back. Thank you so much!
Raffia was blissful! We just loved every minute of our stay. The quality of the building and furnishings are fantastic. The housekeeper was amazing and so helpful. Thank you so much Martin for sharing your lovely home. We have booked again for next year!
We had a really wonderful stay. The house was utterly beautiful and we could barely tear ourselves away from the views! The housekeeper was really helpful and we felt very well looked after. We’ll certainly be getting in touch about another stay next year. Thank you.
What a brilliant property. We immediately felt at home and the level of cleanliness was second to none. This is exactly what we would imagine our own beach house to look like, to an almost weird degree! Even the DVD´s available were in our ´ Top 10´ list. We all had a wonderful stay.
Raffia was amazing! This coastal property is exactly what we were looking for. The closeness from the bottom of the steps of the property into Polperro was incredible, we were constantly popping in and out of the village. The location is fabulous.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Raffia and 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
Scaling New Heights
Self Build & Design
July 201925 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 2024
Collections > Eco-Friendly Escapes > UK > Cornwall > Polperro > Raffia
Related Collections
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.
