Fowey

Narrow medieval streets tumble down to one of Cornwall's most atmospheric harbours, where tall ships once loaded china clay bound for the world. Fowey feels properly Cornish - a working port town that hasn't sold its soul to tourism, though it welcomes visitors warmly enough. The Fowey River snakes inland through wooded valleys, creating some of the county's most beautiful estuary scenery.

This isn't a bucket-and-spade resort. Instead, you'll find literary connections - Daphne du Maurier lived here and set several novels in the area - and serious sailing culture. The annual Fowey Regatta in August brings the harbour alive with everything from dinghies to vintage yachts. Walking the South West Coast Path from here rewards you with spectacular views across St Austell Bay.

Getting here requires commitment. The town sits at the end of the A3082, about 20 minutes from the A30 near Bodmin. Par, the nearest railway station, lies four miles away with decent bus connections. Once you arrive, leave the car parked - Fowey's steep streets weren't designed for modern traffic.

Staying at one of the holiday parks scattered around the area makes perfect sense. You're within easy reach of both the atmospheric harbour town and Cornwall's broader attractions. The Eden Project lies just 15 minutes away near St Austell, while the fishing villages of Polruan and Polperro are both short coastal drives. Several parks offer different experiences, from traditional family sites to glamping options tucked into Cornish farmland.