Cornwall has long been a holiday favourite in the UK, with stunning countryside surroundings and one of the longest stretches of coastline in the world. There’s no end to holiday options here, but if you’re after a camping or caravan experience, Flavia Robles Lorente from Camplify, the UK’s campervan, motorhome and caravan-sharing community, shared two of her top campsite picks – both of which are nestled in beautiful Cornwall.
Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, Flavia said: “Taking to the open road and experiencing Van Life is an incredibly fulfilling experience, and finding a perfect spot to pitch is important to make it as great as possible.
“We know that campers love to explore and get close to nature, but campsites that balance functional facilities with fun ones will provide the best experience for every member of the family.”
Both campsites are surrounded by the rolling green hills and Cornwall’s postcard-worthy countryside vistas, and they are within easy reach of the beach. However, the two campsites sit at different ends of the county.
Flavia’s first recommendation is Hendra Holiday Park, located just outside of the main hub of Newquay. Hendra is a Cornish word that means “Home Farm”, and the campsite hopes to provide a home-away-from-home for guests. The site has been ran by the same family since 1972. Last year, Hendra Holiday Park won a VisitEngland Bronze Award in the Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year category.
“Hendra Holiday Park is set in the beautiful Cornish countryside just five minutes from Newquay’s sandy beaches,” said Flavia.
“Spread over 80 acres, the park is pet-friendly and offers a variety of spacious pitches, with excellent facilities including both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, play parks, eateries, live entertainment, and a shop. Recognised with numerous awards, Hendra provides a great base for exploring Cornwall while enjoying a range of on-site amenities and scenic views.”
Families will love the Oasis Fun Pools, one of the largest indoor fun pools in the South West, which features an indoor pool and three exciting water flumes.
There is also live entertainment, kids’ activities, and newly opened for 2024, a new mini golf course named Palm Beach Adventure Golf. Holidaymakers can stick to cooking for themselves but if you do want to treat yourself to breakfast, lunch, dinner or just a few drinks, there are four eateries on site.
These include Mario’s Pizzeria, Terrace Restaurant, a fish and chip shop and an ice cream shop.
Head further south, just outside the historic market town of Helston, and you’ll find Flavia’s second Cornish campsite pick. Elysian Fields is a family-run campsite which takes its name from Greek and Roman mythology, where Elysian Fields was thought to be the paradise awaiting those who’d led a particularly virtuous and/or heroic life.
Flavia continued: “A family-run campsite, it has loads of fun activities available to make the stay even better – from hireable mini 4x4s for the little ones, an adventure golf course and Segway experiences, to sea scooters in the pool, nature ranger activities and puzzles that help guests explore the whole park, it has everything you need for a great stay.”
The holiday park has beautiful places right on its doorstep, including Porthleven Fishing Harbour, Praa Sands and Gunwalloe Beaches and the famous St Michael’s Mount.
Visitors can also stroll along quiet footpaths to the local villages – both Breage and Ashton. The fishing port town of Porthleven. with its ancient harbour. is just a short distance away along with the golden sandy stretch of Praa Sands.
But, there is also plenty for families to do without leaving the site.
The campsite has a bar and restaurant, Tony’s Tavern, serving breakfast and evening meals, plus draught Cornish beers and cider. If you don’t fancy heading to the restaurant, the staff can even deliver straight to your pitch. There is also a playground on site for kids to enjoy.