St. Ives hotels

Lining St Ives’ winding maze of narrow lanes are brightly-painted rows of old fishermen’s’ cottages. Today, many of these simple terraces have been converted into chic art galleries, handicraft shops, restaurants and delis. Browsing shoppers could pick up a hand-knitted sweater, an original artwork or graze on fine Cornish produce from ever-popular pasties to cheeses, organic cider and locally-grown fruit and vegetables.

You could also join a guided walk around the town led by local experts. Art and history-themed tours give fascinating insights into the rich local history, and visit galleries and workshops of artists who have settled here since the 1960s including Barbara Hepworth, Bernard Leach, Naum Gabo, Patrick Heron and Roger Hilton.

From the craggy coastline to the rolling green countryside, there are opportunities for challenging outdoor adventures all around St Ives. You could go on a seal-watching safari, go ‘coasteering,’ – clambering over rocky headlands and splashing through rock pools – kayak to hidden coves, cycle the country backroads, walk the coastal path or go pony riding along ancient drovers’ trails in the tranquil hillsides.

Those with more sedate tastes also have plenty of options such as art courses run by Newlyn School of Art, food foraging workshops and birdwatching in nearby nature reserves and sanctuaries.

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in the unspoilt countryside around St Ives, you’ll be spoilt for choice: there are family-friendly and cheap campsites and caravan parks, luxury boutique hotels and holiday cottages, and several opulent grand hotels complete with all the expected amenities.