Nautilus
St Mawes, The Roseland Peninsula, Cornwall, UK
The epitome of a contemporary Cornish beach house, Nautilus affords families a feel for authentic coastal living on the romantic Roseland Peninsula. This wood-clad luxury self-catering retreat near St Mawes is just a short walk from Pendower beach, where endless adventures await. From the expansive deck to the glass-fronted sitting room, the imaginatively designed indoor and outdoor living spaces see all guests leave with inspired minds, glowing skin and pockets full of chinking shells.
Introduction
Sandy hues and granite tones combine with vintage beachcomber finds at this lofty self-catering beach house near St Mawes, where furnishings have been thoughtfully reclaimed and repurposed. From 1960s' body boards to framed nautical charts and knotted rope installations, maritime elements emerge throughout the space with quiet intention. With views over Pendower beach from every room, the city feels like a distant memory. The house stands as a testament to considered renovation, where contemporary coastal living meets practical family design, its wooden-clad exterior settling naturally into the rugged Cornish landscape.
Inside
This modern-rustic coastal abode is designed for those who gravitate to shoreline living. With panoramic views across the water, Nautilus adapts effortlessly to each season. Open the double doors and merge interior with exterior on summer days, while in winter, gather the family to observe wild weather by the roaring fire, or retreat to the cosy studio cinema room. Lazy mornings unfold in the loft suite's king-size bed, where windows frame the ever-changing seascape. The Scandinavian-influenced interiors balance washed woods with maritime blues, creating spaces that are both sophisticated and inherently practical for beach life.
Outside
When not exploring Pendower beach or making the most of water adventures from nearby St Mawes, the enclosed level garden serves as a safe haven for children of all ages. The spacious deck and hot tub position you perfectly for observing the tidal rhythms, while summer evenings extend naturally into fireside gatherings that continue until stars emerge. The garden blends into the coastal landscape, where inquisitive cattle peer over time-worn stone walls and maritime breezes carry notes of salt from the shore below. A private pathway winds through native coastal plantings, offering a sheltered spot for morning coffee or sunset drinks.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 8 guests
From £2,650 per week, £1,995 per short break - Alternative group optionsUp to 4 or up to 6 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsThe master bedroom sits on the first floor with a king-size bed and en suite shower room. On the ground floor there is one zip-and-link bedroom (which can be set up as either a super king-size double or a twin) with an en suite shower room, a twin bedroom and a family bathroom with bath and overhead shower in the main house. In the studio, there´s a king-size bed with en suite shower room.
View bedrooms - FeaturesHot tub and cinema room
- PetsSorry, no pets
- Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyYes, children are very welcome. One cot and one highchair are available.
- PracticalitiesThere is gated off-road parking for two cars. The kitchen is well-equipped with an electric cooker, fridge, dishwasher and microwave. The utility room has a washing machine, tumble dryer and additional fridge-freezer. Due to the characterful nature and unique shape of this property, the master bedroom features angular, low vaulted ceilings. The gardeners visit on Mondays or Tuesdays, but are very discreet and should not disturb your stay.
- Homestay includesLuxury welcome hamper including a homemade cake and local produce, TV, DVD player, iPad, WiFi internet, gas barbecue, bodyboards, beach toys, linen, towels, 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 adrenaline-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
St Mawes
Perfectly perched overlooking Pendower Beach on the tip of the Roseland Penisula, St Mawes is a beautiful little Cornish village full of coastal heritage and charm. Unspoilt, quiet beaches, stunning views of the coast and traditional cottages; this little village has it all for the perfect coastal escape.
Getting there
- On the Map This coastal home overlooks Pendower beach on Cornwall's Roseland Peninsula near Truro, Portscatho and St Mawes.
- 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 Truro, with regular services.
- By Air The nearest airport is Newquay Airport (about 45 minutes drive away with regular routes to London).
From the owner
“From the awe-inspiring views to the eclectic decor, we think Nautilus is as perfect a house for a summer´s break with the children as it is a cosy couples´ retreat come winter. The location is perfect for sailing at Pendower Beach or simply embracing the tranquillity by doing nothing at all!”
Built in 1890, Nautilus was run as a car workshop until 2005, after which it was lovingly converted into the beautiful beachside property it is today. It has overwhelming character with its vaulted beamed ceilings, exposed stone walls, Cornish slate floors and, of course, incredible panoramic sea views - all of which we adore.
Nautilus is surrounded by open countryside and is close to many stunning beaches (including Porthcurnick which is just beyond the fields), traditional fishing villages and the cathedral city of Truro- brimming with shops, restaurants and laid-back culture. The nearest village is Portscatho, which lies in a sheltered cove in the corner of Gerrans Bay. St Mawes is also nearby, from where you can catch a ferry over to Falmouth if you like.
The Roseland Peninsula is popular with water-sports enthusiasts of all types, as well as those who wish to enjoy a peaceful coastal walk, a bit of bird-watching or a spot of fishing. Whether by boat, car or foot, Cornwall is bursting with treasures for you to discover.
The Bligh Family
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in St Mawes with an insider’s perspective.
To Eat
The Idle Rocks, St Mawes
Pay a visit to St Mawes and look forward to fantastic food with a view overlooking the harbour at the popular Idle Rocks restaurant; perfect for lunches, candlelit dinners or just a drink while watching boats bob and gulls soar.
To Do
Trelissick Gardens
Trelissick Gardens lend themselves as much to a Swallows and Amazons day out with the family, to a tranquil leg stretch with the dog. Settle down for a spot of nature-watching before enjoying home-made delicacies in the garden cafe (a favourite with the locals!).
To Do
On the Beach
Pendower Beach is a 10 minute walk from Nautilus and is the perfect haven for a sand-between-toes adventure. Throw down a towel and feel the sun touch your skin, a gentle sea breeze washing all worries away.
To See
Sea Scenes
The Cornish fishing villages of Portloe, St Mawes and Portscatho are all but a short drive away. Take to the water by sailing on the River Fal, or simply grab a pasty in a paper bag and watch the boats come and go along the water.
Guest Testimonials
Read reviews on TrustPilot and Google
Nautilus gave us everything we were looking for. Great walks and good local pub food whilst staying in such a lovely place with a gorgeous view! We couldn´t have asked for more! This gave us some lovely family time together and the bedroom configuration worked brilliantly, giving each couple space and privacy. We had some glorious weather, apart from the last day when it was wild, windy and wet. Staying in this lovely barn made it no hardship to have a day relaxing and watching the elements outside whilst feeling warm and cosy! Thank you, for happy family memories.
Everything was perfect and just what we wanted for our coastal retreat. Lots of walking a spending time in this incredible property - we already want to return!
Both the property and the service provided by Unique Homestays were brilliant. We are already looking at booking again for next year. Sincere thanks from us both to all concerned.
We´ve had the most wonderful stay in this beautiful barn enjoying the amazing views. We particularly liked St Mawes and enjoyed lots of scenic walks around the local area. We will always remember Nautilus!
Thank you very much for the lovely stay. Nautilus is well-furnished and excellent for both families with children or couples. The view is breathtaking. We drove around Cornwall and enjoyed the fantastic landscape- we didn´t want to leave!
What a well furnished and comfortable cottage with great views. We loved Portloe and the fantastic walk around St Anthony Head. Nautilus is in a great location.
This is our first visit to Cornwall and we really enjoyed staying in this beautiful Hayloft. You have thought of everything, Nautilus is so comfortable and cosy. What a gem! We fell in love with the stunning view from anywhere in the house and the nearby Nautilus. The children enjoyed playing ping pong and table football. Also the barn is very well situated for exploring all parts of Cornwall. We can really recommend your characterful holiday house and we look forward to another stay.
Thank you very much for the lovely stay. The cottage is well furnished and excellent for both families with children or couples. The views were breathtaking, we drove around Cornwall and enjoyed the fascinating landscape!
Very thorough and efficient service from Unique Homestays and well presented property. Would happily book again. It was good to have the option of paying for just 2 people using one room. It was a nice touch to provide bread, butter, milk and eggs on arrival.
We spent the most beautiful days here. The house is everything you need to relax, share family moments and enjoy. Our first time in Cornwall and for sure not the last. Congratulations for your house!
One of the most wonderful places that we have stayed in! Very family friendly - the children didn´t want to leave and stop playing with all the wonderful toys and games room. Fantastic sea views from all around Nautilus. Complete tranquility. We will miss watching the sea from the comfort of the sofa.
What an amazing little gem of a place you have created here. We loved it; the view, the walks to the beach and the beautiful cottage you have created is fantastic. You have thought of everything to cater for adults and children alike. Who would thought that for November its been like July. A small piece of paradise that will stay with us forever. Really hope to see this little secret again!
We had a lovely stay despite the weather and this was in no small part due to the excellent accommodation and facilities. The location was perfect and the barn itself was extremely comfortable and tastefully decorated. The welcome hamper was an added bonus. Thank you for a lovely holiday
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Nautilus 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
The Transformation of a Cornish Hayloft
Country Living
October 2018Escaping to the Cornish Coast
Country Living
August 2018Snow white
Country Homes & Interiors
December 2024The UK´s cosiest boltholes for Christmas
The Times
December 2024Natural beauty
25 Beautiful Homes
December 202425 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 2024
Collections > Luxury Homes with a Private Chef > UK > Cornwall > The Roseland Peninsula > Nautilus
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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.
