Cornwall is a place that invites you to slow down. To breathe in the sea air, wander along cliff paths, linger over long lunches and return “home” with sandy feet and sun‑warmed skin. And when you’re planning a trip like that, where you stay matters just as much as what you do.

While hotels have their place, there’s something undeniably special about choosing a holiday cottage for your Cornwall escape - especially when it offers the comfort, privacy and thoughtful touches that make your stay feel effortless.

If you’re wondering whether a cottage is the right choice for your next visit, here’s why so many travellers are swapping hotel rooms for spaces that feel like a true home away from home.

Space to Truly Relax

Hotel rooms are designed for sleeping. Holiday cottages are designed for living.

At Stay A While, both The Cowshed and The Lodge give you room to stretch out, unwind and settle in. Think open‑plan living, cosy sofas, private outdoor spaces and interiors that feel warm, modern and inviting.

• The Cowshed offers a beautifully spacious layout, three large bedrooms and a generous living area perfect for slow mornings or relaxed evenings.

• The Lodge is our Grade II listed thatched cottage, with a cosy layout for four and a private garden for morning coffee or evening drinks.

Two beautiful retreats. One unforgettable stay.

Freedom to Eat When You Want

One of the joys of a holiday cottage is the flexibility to cook, snack, graze or feast whenever the mood strikes - no breakfast cut-off times, no queues, no set menus.

Both of our retreats come with fully equipped kitchens, meaning you can:

• Prepare a lazy brunch after a morning walk

• Enjoy fresh local produce from Cornish farm shops

• Share a home-cooked dinner with family or friends

• Pack picnics for beach days

And when you don’t feel like cooking, you’re just minutes from some of Cornwall’s best pubs, cafés and restaurants. See best places to grab coffee and our guide to the best Sunday lunches.

Privacy, Peace and Your Own Space

Hotels can be busy - shared corridors, crowded dining rooms, noise from neighbouring rooms. We can give you something hotels rarely can: complete privacy.

At The Lodge or The Cowshed, you’ll have your own secluded retreat, with:

• Private entrances

• Peaceful outdoor areas

• No shared facilities

• No interruptions

Whether you’re enjoying a romantic getaway, a family break or a solo escape, having your own space makes all the difference.

Perfect for Dog-Friendly Stays

Cornwall is a dream destination for your four-legged friends - miles of coastal paths, dog-friendly beaches and endless countryside to explore. Holiday cottages make travelling with pets so much easier.

Both The Cowshed and The Lodge welcome up to two well-behaved dogs, offering:

• Enclosed outdoor spaces

• Easy access to walks

• A peaceful, rural setting

It means your pups can enjoy the holiday just as much as you do.

A More Authentic Cornwall Experience

Hotels can feel the same wherever you go. Holiday cottages let you live like a local - waking up to birdsong, strolling to nearby trails, discovering hidden coves and returning to a place that feels like your own.

From Illogan, you’re perfectly placed to explore:

• Portreath and Porthtowan beaches

• Tehidy Woods

• The South West Coast Path

• Charming villages and local eateries

It’s Cornwall at its most genuine.

Thoughtful Touches That Make Your Stay Special

A great holiday cottage isn’t just about space - it’s about the details.

At Stay a while, we’ve designed The Cowshed and The Lodge with comfort and ease in mind:

• Luxurious king-size beds

• Stylish interiors with a modern Cornish feel

• Private gardens for outdoor dining

• Smart TVs and fast Wi-Fi

• High-quality linens and amenities

• And who doesn’t enjoy a relaxing soak in the hot tub?

It’s everything you need for a memorable stay.

Stay A While: Your Home in Cornwall

Choosing a holiday cottage over a hotel gives you freedom, comfort and the chance to experience Cornwall at your own pace. And at Stay a while, we’ve created spaces that feel personal, peaceful and perfectly placed for exploring the best of the north coast.

Whether you’re sipping wine in the magical garden at The Lodge or curling up by the log burner in The Cowshed, your stay is designed to feel effortless - the kind of place you’ll want to return to year after year.

Ready to plan your stay?

Explore The Cowshed
Discover The Lodge