Founded by three sisters on a mission, the Scarlet is a glass-walled adults-only eco-hotel built into the cliffs that form Cornwall’s north coast, at one with the sea, the sky and the rugged landscape. Sandy Mawgan Porth beach lies just below.
Every detail has been considered and follows the family’s commitment to sustainability. The paints are water-based, towels and robes are unbleached and organic. Even the bedroom slippers are made from recycled materials.
Yet there’s no compromise on modern style and comfort here. Light and spacious with original paintings and sculptures to catch the eye, the décor is drawn from nature, the colours of wildflowers, rock pools and sea mosses.
There’s a variety of rooms, 37 of them on five levels that vary in size to suit your need. Each is ocean facing, designed to be warmed by the sun and cooled by the breeze, and opens onto a balcony or terrace where guests can gaze out into the blue and be alone among the waves, winds and wheeling gulls.
The Scarlet Spa overlooks the clifftop and features a bromine-filtered indoor pool, outdoor reed pool, log-fired hot tubs, barrel sauna and steam room. Simply lie back and listen to sea, sink into the deep relaxation cocoon pods or visit lantern-lit tents for treatment inspired by the Ayurveda holistic health system. Wellbeing, yoga and Tai Chi classes are also available.
Scarlet’s restaurant offers stunning coastal views and lunch and dinner menus in tune with the hotel’s ethics. Slow food features ingredients that take a little more time to be ready, from seasonable vegetables to aged steaks and seafood caught with due care for the environment. And there are always vegan options.
Sunday lunch is a bit special. Take all the time you need and follow it with a leisurely stroll along the beach or take the clifftop paths for some spectacular views.
