The Setting
Carne Haven sits above Gillan Cove, sheltered by the Herra headland and open to the sea just past it, near the Helford River in south Cornwall. The garden is sheltered and warm, full of palms and ferns, and the South West Coast Path runs right past the gate.
A calm, protected cove opening to the sea, sheltered enough to swim and paddle. Stay close to the cove or strike out into deeper water; the tide changes the view through the day, and the light with it.
Past the mouth of the cove, the sea opens out. Watch the boats come and go, or set out on the South West Coast Path for the full sweep of coastline.
Warm and well protected, the garden holds palms, ferns and mature trees, with generous decking and terraces laid out to catch the sun and the view.
Gillan Cove is a hidden spot. Only residents can park here, which keeps it calm and uncrowded, and most people arrive on foot. It's a relaxed, secret place that suits families, a stone's throw from the beach. Flushing Beach is just round the corner, and the South West Coast Path runs right past.
TR12 6HF. Near Manaccan and the Helford River, on the south Cornwall coast.
