Finest Retreats – Chy Merthen East

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Chy Merthen East? The fact that it’s tucked away on Gwallon Lane where you’d almost miss it if you weren’t looking – which, honestly, is part of its charm. I mean, you’re literally a stone’s throw from St. Michael’s Mount (you can actually see it from some of the windows), but it feels like you’ve discovered this quiet corner that most tourists rush right past on their way to the main drag in Marazion.

The place has that properly restored Cornish cottage vibe without feeling like someone’s trying too hard to be rustic. The stone walls are thick enough that you don’t hear much from neighboring rooms, and the interiors strike this nice balance between character features – think exposed beams and slate floors – and actually functional modern stuff. What I really appreciated was the attention to details that matter when you’re staying somewhere: decent water pressure, blackout curtains that actually work, and WiFi that doesn’t cut out every five minutes. The breakfast setup is more continental than full English, but they source locally and the coffee’s actually good, which – let’s be honest – isn’t always a given in smaller places like this.

Here’s the thing about the location that makes it work so well: you’re close enough to walk into Marazion proper (maybe ten minutes along the coastal path), but far enough out that you miss the summer crowds and the tour bus chaos. If you’re driving, there’s dedicated parking which is honestly a godsend because finding a spot in central Marazion during peak season is basically impossible. The staff seem to genuinely know the area too – they pointed me toward this little section of beach that’s perfect for early morning walks before the day-trippers arrive, and gave me the heads up about when the causeway to St. Michael’s Mount gets busy (spoiler: avoid midday in July and August). It’s not luxury-level service, but it’s that kind of helpful local knowledge that actually makes a difference to how your trip goes. The 8/10 rating feels about right – it’s well-run, comfortable, and the location really delivers, though don’t expect spa treatments or room service. It’s more about having a genuinely nice base for exploring this bit of Cornwall without the tourist-trap markup or the crowds.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $120. One-Bedroom House with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Hugh from United States – 18 June 2025 (8/10)

  Lovely central location in quiet Lower Slaughter. Walk to two restaurants in the manor home and country inn. Nice paths to walk to Bourton-on-the-Water and Upper Slaughter. Cottage had a nice private garden and was really well stocked and comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: No parking spot for our car. It was cold when we were there so the cottage was a little cold.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities