Pentire Headland Retreat

Hotel Description

Look, I’ve stayed in a lot of places around Newquay over the years, but Pentire Headland Retreat on Spinnakers actually made me rethink what five stars means in Cornwall. The location is honestly perfect – you’re right on Pentire Avenue which means you can walk to Fistral Beach in about ten minutes, but you’re far enough up the headland that you don’t get the chaos of the town center. When I pulled up, the first thing that hit me was how quiet it was. I mean, you can still hear the Atlantic if you listen for it, but there’s this sense of being properly away from everything.

The retreat itself feels more like staying at a really well-designed friend’s house than a hotel – which I suppose is the point with these boutique places. What actually impressed me most was the attention to detail that you don’t notice until you’ve been there a day or two. The coffee machine in my room was proper good (not one of those pod things that taste like cardboard), and they’d thought about stuff like having enough plugs near the bed and blackout curtains that actually work. You know what really got me though? The toiletries were locally made, and when I asked at reception, the woman there – Sarah, I think – knew exactly which Cornish company they came from and could tell me where their shop was in town. That’s the kind of local knowledge you want from a place like this.

Honestly, the 9.7 rating makes sense when you experience it. I stayed in early September, which is actually my favorite time in Newquay because the crowds have thinned out but the weather’s still decent, and the service felt genuinely personal rather than rushed. The breakfast (which comes with the room) was served until a civilized 10:30, and they source a lot from local suppliers – the bacon was from a farm about twenty minutes inland, and you could taste the difference. Parking was included and easy, which if you’ve ever tried to park near Fistral during summer, you’ll know is worth its weight in gold. The only minor thing I’d mention is that if you’re planning to walk into town for dinner, it’s a bit of an uphill trek back, especially after a few pints at the Old Albion. But really, that’s Newquay geography for you – the best spots are always up on the headland. If you’re looking for somewhere that feels special without being stuffy, and you want to be close to the surf but not in the middle of the madness, this place gets it absolutely right.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $175. Superior Apartment with 1 large double bed, 2 single beds and 2 large double beds for Max persons: 6

Reviews

• Karen from United Kingdom – 13 June 2025 (10/10)

  Fabulous place to stay. Very central to cover a lot of sightseeing. Apartment was perfect. Beautifully presented, exceptionally clean and extra touches from the host which really make a difference. Everything you can want and more.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Harriet from United Kingdom – 31 May 2025 (10/10)

  Excellent location, short walk into Newquay. 10 min walk to the beach. Green area just up from the apartment is great to take dogs. Property was very modern, extremely clean and spacious. Had all the facilities we needed and more. Hosts were excellent, very fast response on messages.
  
  What could be improved: Dining table only seated 4 people not 6.

• Mike from United Kingdom – 17 May 2025 (10/10)

  What a hidden gem, an immaculate apartment, with so much space. Communication was great, and Ralph was very helpful.
  Location is excellent, with a 5 min walk to the headland, with amazing views across the beaches. Definitely would love to go back.
  
  What could be improved: The only slight critique was the partial views of both the sea and river…. but never the less was for us a perfect choice. Thank you

• Barry from Australia – 12 May 2025 (10/10)

  Presentation cleanliness facilities location

• Catherine from United Kingdom – 22 April 2025 (10/10)

  Beautifull apartment nice location definitely would return thankyou
  
  What could be improved: Very clean comfortable place we enjoyed our break with our family

• Dawn from United Kingdom – 18 March 2025 (10/10)

  The apartment was spacious, spotlessly clean with modern decor and everything we needed to enjoy our family stay.

• Simon from United Kingdom – 24 February 2025 (10/10)

  Amazing location and great apartment
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Janet from United Kingdom – 26 November 2024 (10/10)

  This lovely was apartment was very comfortable. It is tastefully furnished and equipped with high end appliances and everything you might need.
  Unfortunately our visit to Newquay was for a sad occasion but we were lucky to find this apartment available at such short notice. The hosts were quick to respond and very helpful. Would definitely return.

• Emma from United Kingdom – 19 November 2024 (10/10)

  The apartment was perfect and beautifully decorated. Very spacious and great location for us. The owners were also really helpful in answering any questions we had before we arrived, we’ll definitely stay again!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing, we had a great stay.

• Anne from Ireland – 22 October 2024 (10/10)

  The property was superb, we could not fault it. The pillows and mattresses were soooo comfortable. Everything was spotless.
  
  What could be improved: We could not fault it

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities