St Ives accommodation from AU$79

Let's face it, we all love beaches but how many of you would consider going to England for a beach holiday? St Ives is England's trump card and is genuinely home to some stunning world-class beaches and awesome surf. Porthmeor is the main beach surrounded by characterful houses and green hills. Porthmeor is excellent for a day of sun lounging and the surf is very consistent too. Keep a close eye on the horizon for any seals, dolphins and the occasional basking sharks which like to say hello every now and then. Just round the headland is Carbis Bay. Considered one of the most beautiful bays in the world, one look at this idyllic cove will make you understand why. Finally the harbour, although not a beach, is also an essential part of any St Ives experience. As the tide heads out the old wooden fishing boats rest against the yellow sand and wait for the sea to return so the fisherman can head out to make their living.

The seaside town also has a reputation for fine art. From our hotels in St Ives, we highly recommend visiting the Tate Art Gallery which overlooks Porthmeor beach. Also the Barbara Hepworth Museum contains some her best sculptures which are now part of the town's heritage. Hepworth's workshop and garden can also be toured.

A worthwhile day trip from your St Ives hotel is to the Eden Project which is a collection of futuristic dome-shaped greenhouses including the biggest in the world. Plants from across the planet thrive here and the importance of climate and environment is well illustrated.