The Carlyon Bay Hotel and Spa

The Carlyon Bay Hotel and Spa Overview

You know what surprised me most about The Carlyon Bay Hotel? It’s actually got this perfect perch right on the cliff edge that somehow feels both dramatic and completely relaxed at the same time. I mean, when you’re sitting in their restaurant looking out over St Austell Bay, you’re literally watching the waves crash below while tucking into what’s honestly some pretty decent Cornish seafood. The building itself is this sprawling white Victorian thing that’s been updated just enough to feel comfortable without losing that old-school seaside hotel charm – though I’ll be honest, some of the corridors still have that slightly creaky character that reminds you this place has been welcoming guests since the 1920s.

What really sold me on this place was how they’ve managed to nail that tricky balance between being a proper spa retreat and still feeling like a real Cornwall experience. The spa bit is genuinely impressive (their indoor pool overlooks the bay, which is pretty spectacular), but you’re also right in the heart of proper Cornwall here. St Austell’s just up the road if you need supplies or fancy exploring the Eden Project – and actually, being this close to the Eden Project without being right in the tourist chaos is brilliant. The hotel runs a shuttle service, but honestly, it’s an easy drive if you’ve got a car. Parking’s free here too, which is refreshing since so many coastal hotels try to sting you for that. The Heligan Gardens are practically next door as well, and the staff actually know the best times to visit when it’s not crawling with tour groups.

The rooms vary quite a bit – I had one of the sea-facing ones on the second floor and woke up every morning to this incredible view across the bay toward Fowey. You can actually see the china clay works in the distance, which sounds industrial but somehow adds to the authentic Cornwall feel rather than detracting from it. The bed was properly comfortable, and they’ve got those little touches sorted – decent shower pressure, enough plug sockets, blackout curtains that actually work. Breakfast is served in their main restaurant with those same stunning views, and while it’s not going to win any awards, it’s solid hotel breakfast fare with some nice local touches. The Cornish hog’s pudding is worth trying if you’re feeling adventurous. Service throughout is that friendly-but-not-intrusive style that feels genuinely Cornish rather than corporate. Sure, this isn’t the Ritz, but for exploring this gorgeous stretch of Cornwall while having a comfortable base with spa facilities and those incredible cliff-top views? It’s pretty hard to beat, especially at this price point.

Facilities