The French word terroir doesn’t have a direct English translation, but it's often described as "sense of place" This concept reflects the deep connection between the food and drink we consume and the land they come from. In my experience, Cornwall is the closest I've come to truly feeling this connection, perhaps due to its geographical proximity to our French neighbours.
The North Cornish coast, particularly around the unspoiled cove of Crackington Haven, is frequently refreshed by the crisp North Atlantic air. While this can sometimes bring low cloud cover when the rest of the country basks in sunshine, the positives far outweigh this very occasional downside. The sea air keeps everything feeling fresh, and the light is extraordinary, illuminating the stunning landscape. The diversity of the landscape is amazing: Just a mile from Cornwall's highest cliffs at High Cliff near Trevigue, where dotted along the cliff edge you will find the twisted silhouettes of hawthorns that have struggled against the Atlantic winds for decades, you'll find ancient oak woodlands with freshwater streams originating only a few miles away. These streams meander down to the beach, providing a perfect place to wash off the sand after a refreshing early morning swim / surf in the Atlantic - wetsuit optional!
The lush pastures of this area allow Red Ruby cattle to graze contentedly, while the salty air and sheltered spots foster the growth of samphire and other wild herbs, ready for foraging. This landscape invites you to escape the indoors, whether you’re walking or running along the South West Coast Path, exploring the inland public footpaths that connect farms and parishes, or cycling the undulating Cornish lanes. These lanes create a literal rollercoaster of a route—breathtaking on the climbs and exhilarating on the descents.. All this activity naturally builds up an appetite.
Cornish food is, as you might expect, hearty fare. When sourced well, it boasts zero air miles. The local pasties are made with Red Ruby beef from the very cows you might have seen grazing, while fish from nearby Padstow and Port Isaac may have been landed that morning. Cornish new potatoes and green vegetables are all grown within a 20-mile radius. For those with a sweet tooth, a Cornish cream tea (Jam first!) or local ice cream are well-earned treats after a day in the fresh air. And let’s not forget the drinks—whether beer, cider, gin, or rum, local producers pour their passion into every sip.
Terroir might be a French term, but North Cornwall undeniably embodies it.
St Johns View, a holiday home just one mile from Crackington Haven, is available for bookings year-round. VeloAspire offers curated trips based at St Johns View, providing bespoke tours that include locally sourced food (which can be prepared by guests or local chefs), as well as walking, running, cycling, restaurant bookings, and other experiences for up to six people, for stays of three to seven nights.
Comments