Trebetherick, The Jewell of North Cornwall, UK
August 25th, 2010
It was with the bright optimism of early summer that a small delegation of my family decided to decamp down to Trebetherick on the North Cornish coast. The small lane that leads the way down to Daymer bay is dense with greenery and hedgerows but conceals quite a number of sturdy houses built over the last century offering easy access to the beach and walks across the cliff and the famous St Enodoc golf course.
Daymer bay sits comfortably just inside the Camel estuary between Rock (more ostentatious in character) and Polzeath, a large sandy bay with regular surf and big tides.The beach at Daymer is mostly calm because of the protection offered by the Estaury. The bay is completely nested by greenery that leads from the car park on the low cliff round the sand dunes that buffer the golf course to Brae Hill, a distinctive grassy mound, breast shaped with panoramic views from the top looking directly over Padstow and Rock, towards Wadebridge and outwards towards Pentire Point.
A walk along the clifftop between Daymer and Polzeath is rewarding for it winding pathway that looks out over rocky crags and hidden tidal coves. The sound of the sea is perfect company.Take one of the little pathways down to one of the concealed mini-coves that appear like a natures atlantis at lowtide.Alternatively, take one of the numerous pathways passed Brae Hill and enjoy the sandscape walk to Rock where a drink at the Mariner’s is always a welcome refreshment.
Following the path across the golf course, St Enodoc church peers out of the ground, its spire like a comedic witches hat curving at the top.Have an amble about the tombstones where the first one that you see is that of national treasure and Poet Laureat, John Betjeman. At the top of the ancient graveyard is a little bench that has some of the most tranquil views over Daymer bay and the estuary.
Other activities are mackerel fishing from Rock.There are a few fishing boats that take visitors out to the deeper water to catch mackerel.. Fillets of fresh Cornish mackerel, grilled with lemon, parsley and garlic, in the evening with a glass of Camel Valley Bacchus 2009 wine is to die for!
We stayed at Bars House, Daymer Lane, which has a sturdy old-school feel with excellent facilities for about 8 people.Such a short stroll to Daymer beach and the relaxing garden really make Bars House a winner.
If you like to forget about cooking whilst on your holidays then head oer to Padstow where you can dine on fresh fish at Rick Stein’s multiple eateries or perhaps one of the other independent that are also excellent. The ferry from Rock runs quite late but always check with the driver.
Check out a day time visit to the Camel Valley Vineyard. They do tours and tastings which will really change your view on English wine making. It’s worth contacting them to book.
