I’ll never forget the drive down to that little corner of Cornwall near Looe – a proper faff from the motorway, with sat-nav taking us on a detour through some narrow lanes that had me gripping the wheel like my life depended on it. We’d stopped for pasties in Liskeard, but then came the mishap: a sudden downpour turned the road into a river, and we aquaplaned into a puddle the size of a small pond. Heart in mouth, but we laughed it off, emerging soaked but buzzing with that holiday anticipation. As we crested the hill, there it was – this utterly romantic abode tucked in a peaceful pocket, with spellbinding valley and woodland views that made my jaw drop. First impressions? Pure magic. Cosy vibes inside, wood-burning stove ready for action, and shared facilities like a hot tub and gym on site. Perfect for us and the dog.

We’d planned epic hikes from the off, lacing up boots the moment we unpacked. Day one was a belter – blue skies over the valley, so we headed out with pooch bounding ahead. The paths wound through lush woodlands, birdsong everywhere, popping out to glimpses of the coast near Looe. We did a cracking loop along the riverside, about five miles, clambering over stiles and dodging muddy patches. That fresh sea air hit you like a tonic; we stopped for a brew from the flask, feet dangling over a babbling stream. Back at the cottage, barbie fired up for alfresco nosh, all smug from our exertions.

But oh, British weather – it’s got a wicked sense of humour. Next morning, the heavens opened, turning our ambitious coastal clifftop hike into a non-starter. Plans scuppered, we pivoted to a gentler woodland ramble right from the door, hoods up, wellies splashing through puddles. It was grim at first – rain lashing sideways, wind whipping the trees – but there’s something oddly brilliant about a soggy stomp in Cornwall. We laughed at the dog, who looked like a drowned rat but loved every puddle. The valley views turned misty and mysterious, like stepping into a Brontë novel. A sneaky detour to a hidden clearing rewarded us with a rainbow arching over the hills. By the end, drenched but chuffed, we dashed back for hot showers and stove-side snuggles, mugs of tea in hand.

The weather flipped again mid-week – rare sunshine pulling us out for a proper adventure along the lower paths towards Kilminorth Woods. Steep at times, but the payoff was those dappled glades and fern-filled hollows, with the river chuckling below. We picnicked under a tree, cheese rolls vanishing in seconds. Reflecting on it now, I realise I needed this – too often I’m stuck in the grind, forgetting how a good hike, rain or shine, sorts the head. That mishap on the drive? Best thing that happened; set the tone for rolling with whatever Cornwall chucked at us.

Our last day brought drizzle, so a short valley loop sufficed – enough to stretch the legs before the hot tub dip. Hikes in all weathers made it unforgettable; that’s the Cornish way. If you fancy valley views, dog-friendly trails, and weather-proof fun, this spot’s a gem. Can’t wait to go back.