The Best Places to Stay Near the Eden Project

This is a welcoming B&B just outside St Austell with a well-kept garden that makes a perfect place to enjoy a takeaway. Traditional style (chintz curtains with valances and freestanding wardrobes) mixes with more modern touches (Banksy prints and contemporary lighting) – but the jewel in the crown is the deluxe suite. A copper roll-top bath, teal walls with a stylish mural and even a small kitchen (handily equipped with a washing machine) add up to give a top-end boutique feel to this small B&B.

Nespresso coffee machines and freshly cut flowers come as standard in most of the super-comfortable bedrooms at this luxury clifftop hotel, and all have fluffy white robes and slippers. Go for a superior room and they’ll throw in a decanter of sherry and evening canapés. The feel is of a private club with tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pools, spa, championship golf course and private beach. But it’s the incredible views of St Austell Bay that might tempt you further afield.

Its spot in the quiet clay village of Bugle may not be the most glamorous, but the welcome, service and immaculate rooms at this two-bedroom bungalow B&B more than make up for it. As the name suggests, it’s close to the Eden Project – just 6km (4mi) away – but also within easy reach of both coasts. Guests consistently rave about top-notch service where the owners go out of their way to help with the little things that make a stay special.

At the top of a steep hill with panoramic views of Mevagissey Harbour and the dramatic coastline beyond, this is a family-run B&B that punches above its weight. Bedrooms are clean, comfortable and contemporary (with blackout blinds) and if you’ve brought two wheels to enjoy the National Cycle Network that runs past the house, there’s secure storage for them. But it’s the 180-degree sea view from your breakfast table that’s guaranteed to get your day off to the best start.

This gorgeous Georgian manor house is surrounded by lush gardens of magnolias, camellias and hydrangeas, yet just a short walk from St Austell. The three bedrooms feel clean, airy and large and ceilings are high. Don’t miss the delicious homemade jams and marmalades made with seasonal fruits from the beautiful garden. Enjoy looking over that same garden from your breakfast table.

Nautical stripes and white walls, this is clean, contemporary, coastal décor at its best. Just a stroll from the historic harbour and tall ships of Charlestown (a star of many films and Cornish TV favourite Poldark), this 18-bedroom inn is family- and dog-friendly. The best rooms have harbour and sea views and the pub is laid-back and welcoming.

In a wooded valley beside a river, this lovely inn stands out for its beautiful setting. Although close to a road, it has a secluded and remote feel thanks to its fern-peppered gardens with ponds, waterfalls and an ancient well. The decked terrace and patio overlooks it all; the perfect spot to relax with a glass of wine come sundown.