When we think about sustainable tourism, it’s easy to focus on environmental initiatives. But sustainability is also about people, places and supporting local communities.
It’s about ensuring that the money visitors spend benefits local businesses, supports local jobs and helps preserve the character of the places they come to enjoy.
Reading through our guest reviews, one thing becomes clear: a stay at Kernock Cottages is about much more than accommodation. It’s about discovering local food, supporting independent businesses, exploring lesser-known destinations and building a deeper connection with Cornwall.
Discovering Cornwall Through Local Food
Food is often one of the most memorable parts of any holiday.
Many guests tell us how much they appreciate arriving to find locally sourced produce waiting for them.
“The welcome pack provided of local food was excellent and enjoyed by us all.”
“The bacon, egg and sausage, all very locally sourced, were particularly good.”
“Fresh ingredients for breakfast were put into the fridge for us.”
“The welcome pack is very generous, sourcing local produce.”
These welcome packs are more than a thoughtful touch. They’re an introduction to the wonderful producers, growers and suppliers who make Cornwall’s food scene so special.
Supporting Independent Businesses
One of the joys of South East Cornwall is the abundance of independent cafés, pubs, farm shops and restaurants.
Guests frequently mention how valuable local recommendations are in helping them discover places they might otherwise miss.
“The guidance provided on the wide choice of local pubs, cafes and farm shops to eat was fully comprehensive.”
“We visited Tre Pol Pen a few times for delicious breakfasts and lunches.”
“The local pub served good pub food.”
“The local pub is a ten-minute walk from your door.”
By choosing independent businesses, visitors help support local families, local employment and Cornwall’s rural economy.
Going Beyond the Tourist Hotspots
Some of the most memorable experiences happen away from the busiest destinations.
Many guests have told us they discovered a different side of Cornwall during their stay.
“We have been to Cornwall a few times but never to South East Cornwall.”
“It is beautiful and, apart from Looe, much less busy than elsewhere we’ve visited in Cornwall.”
Exploring quieter areas helps spread tourism benefits across the region while allowing visitors to enjoy Cornwall at a more relaxed pace.
The Value of Local Knowledge
The best recommendations rarely come from guidebooks.
They come from people who know and love the area.
Guests regularly comment on how local insights helped shape their holidays.
“Their local knowledge ensured we enjoyed the area.”
“Lots of great recommendations of things to do and visit.”
“Damian gave us lots of information on local attractions and walks which we would never have found by ourselves.”
“The hosts provide great hints and tips.”
These recommendations help visitors uncover hidden beaches, local walking routes, independent eateries and family attractions that often sit beyond the typical tourist trail.
Guest Favourite Local Destinations
Over the years, guests have shared some wonderful local discoveries.
Popular recommendations include:
Nature and Outdoor Attractions
- “Golitha Falls appealed to all ages within our group.”
- “Olive & Co Cafe at Siblyback Lake.”
- “Woods Café at Cardinham Woods.”
- “We would recommend Cawsand and Kingsand.”
- “Portwrinkle beach has stunning views.”
- “Looe is lovely.”
Historic and Cultural Attractions
- “Tavistock is a gorgeous little market town.”
- “NT Cotehele.”
Many of these locations benefit from visitor spending while offering a more authentic and less crowded Cornish experience.
Encouraging Longer and More Meaningful Stays
One hallmark of sustainable tourism is encouraging visitors to engage more deeply with destinations rather than rushing through them.
Many guests comment that there is simply too much to see and do during a single visit.
- “We stayed a week but could have spent much longer.”
- “There is so much to see and do in the area.”
- “We’d love to come back next year to visit all the places we didn’t get a chance to this time.”
These deeper connections often create a stronger appreciation for local communities and encourage return visits.
Returning Again and Again
Perhaps the strongest indicator of meaningful tourism is guest loyalty.
Many of our guests don’t just visit once.
They come back.
- “This was our second visit to Heather Barn.”
- “This was our third time at Kernock Cottages.”
- “This was our sixth visit to Kernock Cottages.”
- “We are already planning trip number three.”
- “We will definitely be returning.”
When guests return year after year, they revisit favourite cafés, support local businesses and continue strengthening their connection with the area.
Sustainable Tourism Starts With Connection
For us, sustainability isn’t just about reducing impact.
It’s about helping visitors connect with Cornwall in ways that benefit both guests and local communities.
It’s about locally sourced food.
It’s about independent businesses.
It’s about discovering hidden gems.
It’s about visiting quieter places.
And it’s about creating experiences that encourage people to return.
As one guest wrote:
“Their local knowledge ensured we enjoyed the area.”
That simple comment captures something important. The best holidays don’t just show us somewhere new. They help us become part of it, even if only for a little while.
FAQs
How does Kernock Cottages support local businesses?
We work with local suppliers where possible and provide guests with recommendations for independent cafés, pubs, farm shops, attractions and restaurants.
Do guests receive recommendations for places to eat?
Yes. Guests regularly mention our local recommendations and guides to pubs, cafés, farm shops and restaurants take a look at our information pages
Are there local food producers nearby?
Yes. South East Cornwall has a fantastic range of local producers, farm shops and independent food businesses.
What are some guest favourite destinations?
Guests frequently mention Golitha Falls, Cawsand, Kingsand, Looe, Tavistock, Cardinham Woods, Siblyback Lake and Cotehele.
Why is supporting local businesses important?
Choosing local businesses helps keep tourism income within local communities and supports jobs, services and rural economies.
Do many guests return to Kernock Cottages?
Yes. Many guests mention returning multiple times, with some now enjoying their fourth, fifth or even sixth visit.
