Self-catering specialist, Beach Retreats, reopened for guests this week, anticipating the busiest year in its 12-year history.
The company, which is about to welcome 200th property into its portfolio of beach-side holiday homes in Cornwall, is hailing a breakthrough in Cornwall’s appeal as a year-round destination.
It reports to being 87% booked through to the end of October, with occupancy for November and December already double that of previous years.
Steve Boucher joined the company earlier this year in a newly-created head of portfolio role following 14 years at cottages.com and is optimistic about what this means for Cornwall’s tourism industry.
“To the envy of destinations across the country, summer almost sells itself for Cornwall. Investment in marketing and product development has focused on the shoulder months and as a silver-lining to the challenges of the last year people are now receptive to our year-round offering. Pent up demand and lack of availability in the summer is driving people to consider the autumn and winter and discover the appeal of windswept walks, cold water swimming and cosy restaurants.
“At Beach Retreats we see this being a trend for years to come. Providing a world-class visitor experience this autumn and winter will kick start a ripple effect for the future. This is our opportunity to avoid over-tourism in the summer and make jobs in the industry sustainable year-round – something that is at the heart of Beach Retreats.”
