12 Valley Lodge

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about 12 Valley Lodge? It’s tucked away in this little pocket between Callington and Gunnislake that most people just drive through on their way to somewhere else. I mean, if you’re not looking for it, you’ll miss the turn-off completely – which is honestly part of its charm. The moment you pull up the drive, you get why this place scores a 9.4 rating.

The lodge sits in what locals call the Tamar Valley, and I’m telling you, the setting is properly gorgeous. You’re technically in Cornwall here (though Devon’s literally a stone’s throw away), and the whole area has this rolling, pastoral vibe that feels worlds away from the tourist chaos down in St. Ives or Newquay. The building itself has character – not the fake-rustic kind you see everywhere, but genuine country lodge warmth with those thick stone walls that keep things cool in summer and cozy when it’s blowing a gale outside. Parking’s easy, which… well, if you’ve stayed anywhere in Cornwall during peak season, you know that’s not a given.

What really sets this place apart is how the owners actually seem to care about the details. The rooms are thoughtfully done – proper blackout curtains (thank god), decent WiFi that doesn’t cut out every five minutes, and bathrooms that don’t make you feel like you’re showering in a cupboard. But honestly, it’s the little things that got me. Fresh flowers that aren’t half-dead, a tea selection that goes beyond generic breakfast blend, and they actually know the area well enough to point you toward the good walks along the Tamar rather than just handing you a generic leaflet. Speaking of walks – if you’re into that sort of thing, you’re perfectly positioned here. Cotehele House and gardens are maybe ten minutes away, and the river walks are stunning, especially in early morning when the mist’s still hanging over the water.

The location works brilliantly if you want to explore both Cornwall and Devon without the hassle of switching hotels. Tavistock’s about twenty minutes if you fancy a proper market town with decent pubs, and you can actually get to Dartmoor’s edge in half an hour. But here’s the thing – you might not want to leave much. The lodge has this peaceful quality that’s hard to find these days. No traffic noise (the road’s quiet enough that you forget it’s there), just countryside sounds and the occasional bleating from neighboring fields. Evenings are particularly lovely – they’ve got outdoor seating where you can sit with a drink and watch the light change over the valley. It’s the kind of place where you find yourself sleeping better than you have in months, probably because there’s zero light pollution and the air actually smells like grass instead of exhaust fumes. If you’re looking for a proper break from city life without sacrificing comfort, this is your spot.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $106. Three-Bedroom House with 2 × 1 double bed, 1 single bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 7

Reviews

• Julie from United Kingdom – 26 May 2025 (10/10)

  Excellent lodge with everything we needed
  Great little extra touches like a bottle of wine and biscuits
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Caroline from United Kingdom – 10 December 2024 (10/10)

  It was clean, warm and comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Avtar from United Kingdom – 29 July 2024 (9/10)

  It was very nice clean and spacious.
  
  What could be improved: The hot water use to go off

• Fiona from United Kingdom – 13 June 2024 (8/10)

  The Lodge itself is in a great location within the park and the balcony the perfect place to sit outside in the evenings, although sadly for us the weather wasn’t brillant.

• Mandy from United Kingdom – 20 April 2024 (10/10)

  Beautiful property. Spacious, comfortable, and clean. Good location. Easy parking. Wine and biscuits were a lovely touch
  
  What could be improved: The mattress in main bedroom was far too soft for me. But obviously, that's a personal preference

• Julie from United Kingdom – 4 March 2024 (10/10)

  We were 6 adults on a weekend break. Spotlessly clean property
  and well presented, lovely location with lovely views, all very calm and peaceful.. Everything thought of that you could possibly need for an enjoyable, comfortable stay at this property….you can tell that the owners have gone to great lengths to maintain this property to a very high standard. The bottle of wine, milk, biscuits and sweets on arrival were a very thoughtful touch, thank you so much, we can't wait to go back!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing not to lik

• Douglas from United Kingdom – 14 November 2023 (8/10)

  Comfortable and tidy,everything required for cooking etc was provided
  
  What could be improved: Was a bit cold upstairs but perhaps we didn’t set the heating correctly

• Joy from United Kingdom – 10 October 2023 (10/10)

  The lodge was a wonderful place it was relaxing. There was enough space for all the family to enjoy the holiday planned for my husband's birthday. We didn't need to cook as there was a restaurant on site but there was plenty of equipment in the kitchen. The bedrooms were spacious and comfy beds. Two bathrooms was great. There is a breakfast bar in the kitchen where I sat and prepared lunches. On the balcony was table and chairs you could sit there in the sun and listen to the stream. We are hoping to go again.
  
  What could be improved: Just one thing the smell from the kitchen sink it wasn't there all the time just a few times. When we left the gentleman who we met was going to do something about it.

• Anne from Ireland – 16 June 2025 (9/10)

  The Lodge had a space for all 4 of us in comfort ✨️
  
  What could be improved: The road around the property itself was very narrow and steep.

• Anne from United Kingdom – 30 June 2022 (8/10)

  What could be improved: The stream at the side of the property was relaxing to listen to it is a shame it's not a visual asset, using the area as a compost heap

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities