Summer’s almost gone and with it, the hustle and bustle which defines a high season in Cornwall.

It gives way to the delights of early autumn, when the warm days and cool evenings provide the perfect platform for a relaxing break by the sea.

What better way to watch the peaceful ebb and flow of the tide from a clifftop vantage point in a five-star cottage?

The Headland is best known for its iconic Victorian hotel overlooking the world famous Fistral Beach, but it also has a fabulous range of cottages and apartments from which to choose.

Each boasts an en suite master bedroom with a 5ft four-poster bed. There is a selection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments and additional bedrooms are en suite twin rooms.

The Headland is a glamorously grown-up getaway, with the tranquillity of the cottages matched by the beauty of the beach below.

Guests enjoying a stay in one of the cottages also have access to the hotel’s Aqua Club, a stunning new swimming and wellbeing centre with six pools.

Besides the two indoor pools and the children’s pool, outside on the sun terrace there is a heated sunset spa encircled by an edge pool.

There is also a heated outdoor vitality pool which has a Cornish granite menhir at its centre – and will soon become your favourite spot to let go of the stresses and strains of everyday life.

Sample some fine dining in the hotel’s renowned double AA Rosette-awarded The Samphire; enjoy a sunset cocktail in The Terrace, or sample a new Mediterranean-inspired menu in The Deck.

Cottage stays from £250 per night, minimum three night stay. Prices correct at time of release.

Once you are fully relaxed and recharged,

1, Surfing/paddleboarding without the crowds

Newquay’s world famous Fistral Beach is just a stone’s throw away – enjoy the Atlantic Ocean under the watchful eye of an instructor. The Surf Sanctuary will teach you how to ride the waves, whilst paddleboarding expeditions are also available.

2, Eden Project, near St Austell

The stunning biomes located in a reclaimed China Clay pit near St Austell provide a once-seen-never-forgotten experience. Find out more.

3, Tintagel Castle

Immerse yourself in history, myths and stunning scenery at Tintagel Castle, further up the rugged north coast from Newquay. Inextricably linked with the legend of King Arthur, this dramatic castle and coastline has fired writers’ imaginations for centuries.

4, Tate St Ives

Head down the coast for a day trip to St Ives and take in the beautiful Tate gallery. Celebrated South Korean artist Haegue Yang;s work is currently on display until September 26.

5, Lost Gardens of Heligan, near St Austell

Around 200 acres of history, mystery and romance can be found here, after the magnificent gardens were unearthed and restored 30 years