Our most unusual places to stay in Cornwall

Washed up on the shores of a hidden lake, this shipping container has swapped its cargo for huge windows, a cosy double bed, kitchen and a wood burner. Accessed by half a mile of rough track, The Lake is completely off-grid with lighting powered by solar panels and water pumped directly from the lake itself.

In this secluded spot it’s just you, the fish and the resident wild ponies sharing the beautiful landscape. Hike in the huge expanses of moorland, drift around your private lake in a rowing boat or simply slide straight into the waters for a wild swim. When night falls, Bodmin’s Dark Sky status comes into its own, offering up a star-studded celestial display.

Guest Phil said “The location is simply stunning and so unique, with unexpected historical ruins giving a magical aura of times past”

A retired mobile library, Trebus is definitely non-fiction although it’s hard to believe the beauty of this wild spot on the North Cornish Coast. The books may have been rehomed but the sofa next to the large windows is still a tranquil spot to get lost in the pages of a seafaring adventure. Then at dusk, it’s just a few strides outside to the deckchairs and firepit to watch the sunset over the sliver of sea on the horizon. Once you’ve feasted on a hearty breakfast in the kitchen there’s a wealth of activities and days out in this neck of the woods.

Head to the nearest village is Tintagel to visit its famous castle of the same name, explore the tidal coves of Bossiney Haven and Benoath, discover witchcraft and magic in beautiful Boscastle or walk round the Trevillet valley. The mesmerising waterfalls at nearby St Nectan’s Glen are a must-visit and are said to have healing qualities.

Floating among the trees, the spherical pod at Lost Meadow is clad in wooden shingles and looks surprisingly at home in this magical woodland spot next to the river Bedalder. It’s a cosy little nest containing twin beds with warm duvets, a mini wood burner, books and board games. Down below at ground level you’ll find a spring fed off-grid hot shower, composting toilet and field kitchen.

Spend peaceful days splashing about in the river, exploring the forest and setting out on walks across the vast expanse of Bodmin moor, easily accessible from the Wildish site. If you want to venture further afield, canoeing on the Fowey, cycling on The Camel Trail and spooky tours of Bodmin Jail are all within easy reach

Step back in time and spend a few romantic nights sleeping in a spacious Iron Age Roundhouse in what guest Rhi described as “the comfiest bed ever”.

Your dwelling might be a careful reconstruction, but you’re up close and personal with the real deal on the surrounding moorland which is dotted with the remains of an Iron Age settlement. As well as the rustic handmade four-poster bed in the roundhouse, guests also have exclusive access to a luxurious Treehouse complete with kitchen, bathroom and living space.

Once you’ve explored the ancient grandeur, there are nature walks and wildlife to enjoy, glorious beaches at West Penwith and arty St Ives are a 15-minute drive away. Just make sure you’re back in front of the firebowl for the nighttime light display under unpolluted skies – you’re likely to spot shooting stars and The Milky Way.

A stunning, custom-built tiny house in open countryside, Woodstock Lookout is built from recycled wood, including a ship’s timber salvaged from the beach. This is quirky luxury at its finest, with a screened outdoor tub on the wraparound deck, a wood burner, upcycled honesty bar, beautifully equipped kitchen and king size bed on the mezzanine deck.

When you’re not barbequing on the terrace or exploring the bridleways, the Southwest Coast Path is close by and you can get to Prussia Cove, rich with smuggling history, in 30 minutes on foot. The spectacular outdoor Minack Theatre and St Michael’s Mount are a short drive away and you can hire bikes from Land’s End Cycle Hire who will deliver push bikes and e-bikes to the cabin and collect them when you leave.