

Hotel Description
Honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first pulled up to Sandcastles on Mount Brioni – the name sounds a bit whimsical for a four-star place, doesn’t it? But you know what, it actually fits perfectly once you see the location. This place sits right on Looe Hill overlooking Downderry, and I mean *right* there where you can practically feel the sea spray on clear days. The approach is through some genuinely narrow Cornish lanes (fair warning if you’re driving anything bigger than a standard car), but once you arrive, you get why they built here.
The building itself has that lovely weathered stone look that actually belongs to the landscape – none of that shiny resort feeling that can feel so out of place along this stretch of coast. What really struck me was how quiet it gets in the evenings, especially off-season. You’re close enough to hear the waves when the wind’s right, but far enough from the main Downderry road that you won’t get the occasional late-night traffic. The rooms I’ve seen have these massive windows that frame the coastline beautifully, and honestly, the view changes completely depending on the weather – moody and dramatic when it’s stormy, almost Mediterranean-blue on those perfect summer days we get maybe twice a year in Cornwall.
The staff actually know the area, which sounds basic but you’d be surprised how rare that is. They’ll tell you the real story about tide times if you’re planning to walk the coast path (crucial information, trust me), and they know which direction to send you for the best rock pooling spots that aren’t overrun with families. I mean, Downderry beach itself is lovely, but there are these little coves accessible at low tide that most tourists never find. The breakfast situation is solid – proper local sourcing without making a big show of it, and they’ll pack you something decent if you’re heading out early for a coastal walk. The whole place feels like someone put real thought into what travelers actually want rather than just checking boxes on a luxury hotel list. That 9.2 rating makes sense when you experience it – it’s not trying to be London fancy, but it absolutely nails what a proper seaside retreat should feel like. If you’re the type who appreciates waking up to actual countryside quiet and having easy access to some of Cornwall’s less trampled coastal paths, this place delivers exactly that.
Rooms
- Estimated price from: $190. Holiday Home with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2


Reviews
Lisa from United Kingdom – 15 June 2025 (10/10)
Exceptional location! The apartment had everything you need. And the wee garden was perfect for our little pooches. The sound of the ocean and the neighbourhood peacock was simply the best therapy ever.
What could be improved: Bathroom window could possibly benefit from a slatted blind as to maintain privacy whilst still allowing light.Tracy from United Kingdom – 18 August 2024 (10/10)
Location was excellent apartment lovely and well equipt
Kirsty from United Kingdom – 28 July 2024 (10/10)
Such an amazing view and lovely home away from home- couldn’t have asked for better hosts!
Stephen from United Kingdom – 7 May 2024 (8/10)
The view was amazing with just a short walk to the beach and a country park, ideal for walkers. Add to that there is the Smugglers Inn and The Beach House where you can get a drink and a bite to eat. Looe, Polperro and Fowey are just a short drive away with Downderry a short walk along the beach when the tide is out.
What could be improved: No control for the heating although a small electric radiator is provided. There was a day when both my wife and I got caught in a downpour in the morning and as the heating had turned off by this point, there was limited scope to dry our coats etc.Cartlidge from United Kingdom – 21 April 2024 (8/10)
Sea view
Christina from United Kingdom – 17 April 2024 (10/10)
All round amazing, beautiful view, hosts were fabulous. Stones throw from beach. pubs & cafe close by . Private parking & a lovely welcome pack 👍
What could be improved: Everything I want & moreDeborah from United Kingdom – 28 August 2023 (9/10)
Everything
What could be improved: NothingJosi from United Kingdom – 26 July 2023 (10/10)
Lovely apartment with everything you need in a fantastic location. The view is beautiful and it’s just a short walk to the beach or the nature reserve. Friendly and helpful hosts full of local knowledge and really nice quiet complex, we will definitely return.
Joyner from United Kingdom – 19 July 2023 (10/10)
location, cleanliness and decor
What could be improved: nothingAlison from United Kingdom – 7 July 2024 (9/10)
Fantastic setting overlooking the sea
Proximity to the beach
Two lovely pubs within 5 minute walk serving great food and good choice of drinks
Great coastal walks
Great for dog owners – a beach where dogs are allowed 24/7
What could be improved: Nothing
However, not sure it would be for us again if we didn't have a dog
SURROUNDINGS
What’s nearby:
- Thorn Park: 15 km
- Castle Park: 14 km
- Horson Field: 16 km
- Anthony House: 16 km
- Chapel Fields: 17 km
- Port Eliot Gardens: 7 km
- HMS Raleigh Sports Field: 16 km
- Wild Futures The Monkey Sanctuary: 2.6 km
Restaurants & cafes:
- Restaurant The Beach House: 400 m
- Restaurant Inn On The Shore: 1.5 km
- Restaurant Summink Different: 1.6 km
Beaches in the neighbourhood:
- Hannafore: 7 km
- Seaton Beach: 50 m
- Downderry Beach: 650 m
- Shag Rock Beach: 3.4 km
- Millendreath Beach: 3.5 km
Public transport:
- Train Looe: 5 km
- Train Sandplace Halt: 7 km
Closest airports:
- Plymouth City Airport: 29 km
- Newquay Cornwall Airport: 59 km
Facilities
Kitchen:
- Stovetop
- Oven
- Kitchen
- Dishwasher
- Microwave
Outdoors:
- Beachfront
Activities:
- Beach
Miscellaneous:
- Non-smoking throughout
Room Amenities:
- Private entrance
- Heating
- Ironing facilities
Languages spoken:
- English
Cleaning services:
- Laundry
Media & Technology:
- Flat-screen TV
Great for your stay:
- Parking
- Kitchen
- Free WiFi
- Flat-screen TV
- Pets allowed
- Bath
- Free parking
- Beachfront
- Beach
- Shower
Other for your stay:
- Hairdryer
- Bath
- Shower


Rules
Pets:
- Pets are allowed. Charges may be applicable.
Parties:
- Parties/events are not allowed
Smoking:
- Smoking is not allowed.
Check-in:
- From 15:00
- Guests are required to show a photo identification and credit card upon check-in
Check-out:
- Until 10:00
Cancellation/prepayment:
- Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodation type. Please check what conditions may apply to each option when making your selection.
Guest reviews
Staff:
Comfort:
Location:
Facilities:
Cleanliness:
Value for money:
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