Veryan Bay is actually fronted by Portloe, a charming harbour settlement that’s perfumed by the smell of salty sea-spray blowing across the rocks. The village of Veryan itself is a little further back inland and, as if to add a little more confusion to the matter, Veryan Campsite is in another place again. The three spots form a wonky triangle of back roads, though come to Cornwall and you realise that’s kind of the theme around here – little lanes and wiggly country roads all seem more easily navigated by scribbling on the back of your hand than following your Sat Nav. Fortunately the campsite (top of the triangle) is well signposted.
Caravanning is the name of the game here. Or so it seems when you first arrive, entering into a large field dotted with vehicles, encampments and smiling camping faces. But in a separate meadow, over the hedge line to the right, an open grassy space void of electrical hook-ups leaves acres for more traditional camping folk. It is the glamping options however, recently introduced by Ready Camp, that give the cool factor to this established Cornish getaway. Bringing a fresh touch of originality to the site, the newly erected safari tents offer that little extra flare and the chance to enjoy some holiday luxuries while still spending summer under canvas.
Inside the Ready Camp tents a lining separates the space into three individual rooms, though this can be rolled up to create one larger living area. While the two bedrooms feature a double bed, bunk beds and a further roll out trundle bed, the real comforts are in the family space, home to a deep, comfy sofa and a fully equipped kitchen, so you don’t need to load your car down with plates, pots and pans. When the suns out the tents also have a wide decking area, ideal for warmer evenings.
Beyond the tent flaps there’s no need to rush straight for the car. While the Eden Project, Falmouth and beautiful Carrick Roads are an easy journey away, some of the most immediate attractions are happily reached on foot. It’s a pleasant mile and a half walk down to whitewashed Portloe, where a pint of St Austell’s ale in The Ship is a must. The pub clutches to the edge of yet another tiny, narrow road with the quaint beer garden on the other side surrounded by thick, green foliage. Drain the drink and hit the turf though, from here it’s all about the South West Coast path which connects you too all the good beaches in Veryan Bay. Find your own secret sands amongst the finger-shaped, craggy rocks and relax in the south coast sun – seclusion’s not hard to find around Veryan.