I’ll never forget the drive down to Carbis Bay last autumn – leaves turning that gorgeous coppery gold all along the A30, but wouldn’t you know it, I managed to take a wrong turn just past Redruth and ended up in a queue of caravans crawling along like they were on holiday already. By the time I pulled into the car park, the sun was dipping low, painting the sky in those dramatic oranges and purples that only Cornwall can pull off in October. I was knackered but buzzing with that proper anticipation you get when you’ve been dreaming of a coastal getaway for months.

Stepping into this luxury first-floor apartment, I was gobsmacked straight away. Looking at the stunning view from the bay windows of the living area, you understand why it’s called a proper lookout – set on the cliffs overlooking one of Cornwall’s most beautiful bays and beaches, Carbis Bay. The owners had even left binoculars, which I grabbed immediately to watch the waves crashing below and a few seals bobbing about. It sleeps four in two comfy bedrooms, perfect for me and my other half on a romantic escape, though it’d suit a young family no bother. Those panoramic views from the sitting area stretch from St Ives Bay one way to Godrevy Lighthouse the other, and with autumn’s misty light softening everything, it felt like we’d stumbled into a painting.

The season made it all, really. No summer crowds meant we had the beach almost to ourselves – just us, a scattering of dog walkers, and the crunch of leaves underfoot mixed with the salty tang in the air. We’d wander down to Carbis Bay beach in the mornings, boots on against the chill, collecting those twisty bits of driftwood while the sea mist rolled in like a soft blanket. One day, the low sun turned the water to molten gold, and we sat with flasks of tea watching fishing boats chug out from St Ives harbour, just a short stroll away along the coast path. It was magical, that crisp bite in the wind making every hot pasty from the Porthminster Beach Café taste even better – proper comfort food when the days are shortening.

Afternoons, we’d hike the short cliff paths to Porthkidney Sands, where the dunes glowed russet and the lighthouse stood sentinel against squally showers. Light humour in the rain, mind – I slipped on a wet rock once, ending up with a soggy bum and us both in stitches. Evenings were cosy heaven: wrapped in blankets by the windows, sipping mulled cider (we brought our own), spotting the first hints of winter stars popping out early. No need for telly when nature’s putting on a show.

Looking back, that autumn hush gave us space to breathe, to chat properly without the world rushing by. In peak summer, it’d be brilliant but hectic; this time of year, it was ours. Cornwall in autumn? It’s like the county’s best-kept secret, wrapping you in its moody beauty and leaving you refreshed. We’re already plotting a return.