Few places can compare with the Roseland Peninsula. Often described as the “jewel in the crown” St Mawes is bordered by National Trust land with its abundance of primrose, bluebell and foxglove.

The Roseland is one of the most picturesque and unspoilt parts of the British Isles. Here you will find a varied landscape of secluded coves, delightful creeks, wooded countryside, pretty fishing and rural villages, tranquil beaches, scenic cliffs and headlands.

The picturesque south facing harbour village of St. Mawes on the eastern side of the Fal Estuary has long River Fal has long been one of Cornwall's most desirable and exclusive destinations. St Mawes is centred around a small stone harbour and has its own beaches. There is a distinctive Mediterranean atmosphere, with the village centre providing an interesting selection of individual shops catering for day to day requirements which include two banks, hotels, restaurants, inns, and a genuine Tudor castle.

The village is also one of Cornwall's foremost waterside communities renowned for its mild climate and enchanting seafront providing access to some of the finest sailing waters in the British Isles. There are several local sailing clubs and during the season there is a constant succession of races culminating in the ever popular Falmouth Week in August.

In addition Falmouth Bay provides the starting or finishing line for many transatlantic races.

Far enough away from the main communications and larger towns to have retained its charm, St Mawes has a good road in and out across the Roseland Peninsula and is also linked to Falmouth and the cathedral city of Truro, via the world famous King Harry Ferry over the River Fal. There is a regular passenger ferry from the harbour to the town of Falmouth across the estuary, and also in the summer to the picture postcard Place House across the Percuil River; the start, for many, of exquisite coastal walks.

The Roseland Peninsula, which stretches some ten miles from the delightful village of Tregony in the north-east to St Mawes at its very tip, is an area of outstanding natural beauty with superb coastal scenery and walks, a number of beaches and a general feeling of peace and tranquillity.

Additionally there are many miles of wonderful walks along the shores of the estuary and creeks. Nearby to St Mawes and easily accessible is the acclaimed church at St Just in Roseland with its exquisite waterside location.

For those wanting to get away from the humdrum of city life and escape to the water, but still have access to good food and quiet enjoyment then St Mawes is clearly the first choice and is not to be missed.

In a wider context, Cornwall is enjoying a huge renaissance and offers a range of accessible attractions. The Eden Project is already world famous. In addition the county boasts the National Maritime Museum in Falmouth, the Lost Gardens of Heligan, the Tate Gallery in St Ives and Stein's Seafood Restaurant in Padstow. All this and the fascinating walks, excellent beaches and sheltered sailing waters that have long made the county a magnet for those seeking relaxation in a dramatic setting.