My HomeExchange Story: Cornwall, United Kingdom

Paul and Christine's trip through the coastal towns of Cornwall.

How did you find your exchange?

A member from the HomeExchange community contacted me.

What attracted you to this exchange opportunity?

We had already planned a stay in Brittany, France and Cornwall, UK seemed like a natural extension...we put ourselves and our car on the ferry, and voila. The ferry took 6+ hours from Roscoff to Plymouth, but we watched the cricket on the big screen and it was a super-smooth crossing.

How was your arrival at the home?

Our host was on the way to stay in our house in France, so no chance to meet them. But they emailed clear instructions for parking and entry to the house. A dedicated parking spot was like gold in such a tiny village. There was a basket full of brochures, books and suggestions for the local area.

What did you see or do during your exchange?

We walked from Port Isaac to Port Quin along the coastal track, about 2 hours along the top of the cliffs, and 1 hour on the inland path on the way back. At the back of the carpark in Port Quin, under the shade of a tree - we found a food van, best latte so far and a piece of homemade fruit cake, lovely.

We then caught the foot-boat from Rock to Padstow, lunch was fish ‘n’ chips at one of the Rick Stein outlets and Cornish pasties from the Chough bakery to take home for later. Nice town.
Cotehele and Lanhydrock stately homes were each an elegant morning in homes of yesteryear and their gardens are made for walking.

Nathan Outlaw has 2 restaurants in the village, both with Michelin stars. We went to the Fish Kitchen on the harbour for a totally wonderful seafood lunch. And home for a nap in the afternoon!

What is your favorite memory from the exchange?

Port Isaac is in the village of Port Wenn in the Doc Marten TV series, and they were filming during our stay. It was fun to search the village for the homes and landmarks in the series.
Ou HomeExchange home was an upside-down house, with the kitchen/dining/living area on the top floor and what a view, across the rooftops to the harbour and the sea.

The old village houses are built of shale, narrow streets, crooked chimneys, geraniums in stone pots and seagulls crying the music of the seaside.

How would you describe home exchange to your family and friends?

HomExchange provides us with an opportunity to travel more than we could otherwise afford, and the accommodation comes with home comforts and local knowledge.