Villa Boden
Porthleven, Cornwall, UK
Reflecting the nuanced realm of Scandinavian design, Villa Boden has two sides. On one is its warm, open, light-filled demeanour and, on the other, its moodier counterpart: sleek, sophisticated, and timeless in its connection to the dramatic harbour setting in which it resides. If you see beauty in simplicity, or are looking for Cornwall's best uncrowded foodie destination, then this luxury beach house in Porthleven has your name written all over it.
Introduction
Lovingly owned for twenty years, two sisters worked with an award-winning design house, embracing Nordic design concepts to create a modern take on luxury hygge living at their holiday home on the south-west Cornwall coast. Today, a monochromatic aesthetic lends a relaxed tone where nature sets the pace. In summer, turquoise seas and white sands tempt guests onto Porthleven beach. In winter, the log burner crackles and the Atlantic Ocean roars, setting the scene for dramatic storm-watching sessions over ice-cold G&Ts. Whether looking for a luxury self-catering escape by the sea, or a writer’s retreat in which to hole-up for the entire winter, slip into beach house living and let all your troubles dissolve into the ether.
Inside
Taking inspiration from the Scandinavian design philosophy, Villa Boden puts a focus on pared-back style. Reverse level living brings those inside close to the elements, with panoramic sea views and plenty of space to unfurl. The top floor boasts high apex ceilings and a balcony overlooking the bay, while the ground floor features a television room, bathroom and two double bedrooms; the master with a balcony leading to the barbecue area. Down on the lower ground floor sits a shower and twin room, where the one-way mirrored glass offers privacy and perfect sea views at the same time. Matt black fittings nod to the serpentine granite rocks, while underfloor heating and seagrass rugs are reminiscent of barefoot walks along warm sandy beaches.
Outside
There is a magical sense of remoteness on Cornwall’s Lizard Peninsula. Rare heathers and colourful wildflowers add drama to the spectacular coastal views, such as the yellow flowering Hottentot Fig which pours over the rocky black cliffs like cream. Making the most of the coastal location, two ocean-facing terraces offer mesmerising scenery for al fresco dining: balmy in summer and salt-sprayed during stormier seasons. If you fancy dining out, Porthleven may be tiny but is mighty in its offering of foodie gems; from fresh Cornish seafood to high-end Asian dining and, of course, the perfect pint of Tribute. In April, Porthleven comes into its own during the annual food festival - a vibrant celebration of street food and live music not to be missed.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 6 guests
From £2,450 per week, £1,850 per short break - Alternative group optionUp to 2 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsThere are two king-size bedrooms (the master has an en suite shower room) and one family bathroom on the ground floor. Down on the lower ground floor sits a twin bedroom and shower room with WC. For sandy dogs, wetsuits and toes, there is also an outside shower.
View bedrooms - PetsTwo well-behaved dogs are welcome
Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyYes, children are very welcome, a cot and highchair are available.
- PracticalitiesThere is driveway parking for one medium sized car and a free carpark a short walk away. The contemporary kitchen includes two ovens (one with a combination microwave), a hob, two refrigerators and a freezer. In the laundry room downstairs is a washing machine and tumble dryer, plus an iron and ironing board. The house benefits from underfloor heating as well as a woodburner. Please note that the ground floor al fresco dining area is accessed via bedroom one.
- Homestay includesLuxury welcome hamper sourced from Porthleven Deli, board games, dressing gowns, luxury bed linen and towels, locally-made soaps, Wi-Fi internet, firewood 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.
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questions
Prices & Availability
Porthleven
Porthleven is home to the most southerly port in Britain, with a sandy beach reaching three miles long at low tide. Once famous for its tin and china clay, the pretty harbour town is tipped to be Cornwall’s next food hotspot.
Getting there
- On the Map Porthleven is a small harbour town location on The Lizard in south-west Cornwall
- By Car From London, take the M4 towards Bath, the M5 south and then the A30 to Cornwall, and follow the directions provided to reach the property
- By Train The nearest train station is in Penzance, with regular routes to London Paddington including a sleeper train (quite an experience)
- By Air Fly to Newquay Airport - just over an hour's drive away - and hire a car or taxi for your journey onward
From the owner
“The moment you enter you experience the incredible view of the sea; there´s a wonderful sense of home. Throughout the house you can hear the waves crashing onto the beach below which creates a soothing sound through all the seasons.”
The house was originally built in the 1930s but has been rebuilt and completed in July 2020. We wanted to make the most of the amazing sea vistas and so created an upside-down house with an open plan living area to incorporate panoramic views of the ocean, which are on show from the moment you step through the front door.
We frequently see seals in the sea below, but even when there is no wildlife you can see the fishing boats and the other side of the harbour, where there are always surfers waiting for the right wave. Our favourite time is getting up early and sitting by the window with a coffee, knowing most of the town are still fast asleep and you have the view to yourself.
Be sure to look for the lighthouses flashing after dark - on a clear night you can see Bishop Lighthouse on the Scilly Isles, and Wolf Rock lighthouse at Land's End is normally visible too.
The May Family
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Porthleven with an insider’s perspective.
To Do
Vertical Blue Adventures
Specialising in personalised adventures around this extraordinary part of the Cornish coast, the experienced team from Vertical Blue will take you out on kayaks, paddleboards or canoes from the harbour. The brave can give coasteering a go, incorporating climbing and rock jumping without the aid of any craft.
To Eat
The Square, Porthleven
This Michelin-listed restaurant is in the heart of the fishing village, overlooking the picturesque harbour. The Square at Porthleven serves quality brasserie-style dishes, homemade cakes for elevenses and freshly-churned ice cream from the deli. On a sunny day, sit back and enjoy the view from the al fresco terrace, glass of wine in hand.
To See
Loe Pool
The Loe (meaning pool in Cornish) is Cornwall’s largest natural lake. Local farmers work alongside The National Trust, Natural England and others to protect this special site and the abundance of wildlife within. Take the circular walk through Coronation Park around the River Cober, following a coastal trail past ancient woodland.
To Do
Porthleven Food Festival
This community-led event has been a firm favourite on Cornwall´s foodie calendar over the last decade, taking place in late-spring. A vibrant celebration of culinary talent and Cornish creativity, the week-long festival combines local and international chef´s theatre, street food and music stretching from dawn until dusk.
Guest Testimonials
Read reviews on TrustPilot and Google
The property had clearly been recently refurbished and everything was done to a really high standard. We loved that there was no TV in the main room upstairs - we watched the sea instead! We loved the local books and the binoculars were a great hit with the kids. The outside shower was a godsend too.
We thought that the house was stunning and in a great location. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the property, Porthleven or Unique Homestays! Thank you for a wonderful stay.
We loved the property and would have no hesitation in booking the same property again. We are only sorry it is fully booked for Christmas. The property exceeded all our expectations - we had a fantastic holiday!
We had a really lovely week in a beautiful home in a fantastic area that we have never visited before. Villa Boden is right by the sea and within walking distance to the town. The property allows dogs which meant we could walk everywhere with them!
A remarkable job on this house. It felt both private and luxurious. We loved the Scandinavian styling and everything was really so simple and straightforward to enjoy and use. The views from the kitchen/family room were just outstanding, I could have stood and enjoyed that view for day after day. The furnishings were all extremely comfortable as well. Particularly in the den, after a good day surfing - I felt like falling into a hammock on that sofa. The fireplace worked brilliantly as did all of the sea-facing doors and windows, which can sometimes become a headache with sea-facing properties.
We loved the crashing waves under the balcony and the woodburner which gave a cosy atmosphere. The whole house is open and airy and the snug is special for late-night films. Everything is fantastic here, the technology, the house layout and the heating; very important when you have a baby with you! A big thank you to the owners who were incredibly helpful during our stay. We hope to be back in the summer to enjoy Villa Boden in the heat! We absolutely adore Villa Boden and so enjoyed our New Year in this house.
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 > Luxury Homes with a Private Chef > UK > Cornwall > Porthleven > Villa Boden
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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.
