The pretty fishing village of Mousehole is packed with traditional stone fishermen’s cottages, so when I first saw Fallen Angel, I must admit I was surprised to find an angular, black, rubber-clad structure spilling down among Zen gardens. Surprised, but utterly converted. Its distinctive wetsuit-like skin feels like a modern take on coastal architecture, reminding me of Suffolk’s classic black fisherman's huts. This romantic one-bedroom cottage occupies a steep plot overlooking the harbour. With the help of some clever architects and a lot of manual labour, owners Mark and Jane have created a cool, modern hideaway.
From the moment we stepped through the huge wooden gate (originally the door to a Moroccan village) we felt transported to the Med. Dotted with succulents, palms and lavender, the exquisitely landscaped garden led us up to the front door. Inside, traditional North African ornaments mingle with contemporary features: an egg-shaped wood-burner, a Sonos sound system, a freestanding steel bathtub, and stunning commissioned art work. Huge picture windows gaze over the picturesque rooftops of Mousehole; a charming corner of Cornwall, replete with tempting restaurants, shops and galleries. While you're here, venture a little further to explore St Ives, Penzance, Porthcurno Beach and Sennen Cove.
Highs
- A wonderfully spacious bolthole for 2 with spectacular views and a big garden – perfect for a honeymoon or special occasion
- Secluded and private, yet within a minutes’ walk of charming Mousehole’s pretty harbour
- A great kitchen with all the utensils you could possibly need, plus hampers and chef-made meals on request
- Extremely comfortable bed and a decadent freestanding tub with sea views
- The owners know Cornwall inside out, and can advise and book everything from foraging tours to surf lessons to luxury hampers
Lows
- It may look pricey for a 1-bedroom rental, but this is a truly luxurious and unique place to stay: worth every penny
- No designated parking area
- Though carefully designed to maximise privacy (and not closely overlooked), some may find the bathtub and shower a little exposed - electric blinds help
- No indoor dining table, although there are comfy seats around the kitchen island, plus outdoor tables and chairs
- A steep access lane and indoor staircases
Best time to go
We visited in June and were lucky enough to have lots of sunshine (and a little bit of rain), great for making the most of the garden and terrace. Equally, we could see ourselves getting cosy by the fire in the colder months, especially as there is underfloor heating.
Our top tips
Take a picnic hamper to one of the many local beaches - we liked Sennen Cove. Mark and Jane can organise a luxury hamper for you.
If you’re visiting at the weekend, book a table at one of Mousehole’s restaurants in advance, as they book up fast.
If you’re visiting at the weekend, book a table at one of Mousehole’s restaurants in advance, as they book up fast.
Location
Fallen Angel is in Mousehole, a small fishing village in the far west of Cornwall, 10 minutes' drive from Penzance and 25 from Land's End.
By Air:
There are some internal flights to Newquay Airport (74km). If you’re coming from further afield, fly into Exeter (200km), Bristol (300km) or London Heathrow (480km).
From the Airport
From Newquay, it's an hour's drive or taxi ride to the cottage. If you’re travelling from Bristol, Exeter or London, take the train to Penzance or hire a car.
By Train:
Penzance train station is a 10-minute drive or taxi ride from Mousehole. It's served by mainline services from London and other UK cities, including overnight sleeper trains.
By Car:
It’s a long drive to western Cornwall from pretty much anywhere, but the cottage is not far from the A30.
Detailed directions will be provided when you confirm a booking through i-escape. 
More on getting to the UK and getting around
Airports:
- Exeter 195.0 km EXT
- Newquay 74.0 km NQY
Other:
- Beach 1.0 km
- Shops 0.5 km
- Restaurant 0.5 km
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 2 independent reviews from i-escape guests
We really loved our stay, and off-season the value is not too bad. It's a beautiful part of Cornwall and we had everything we needed in the flat. It's hidden away and was clean and welcoming when we arrived. We felt that perhaps the description for arriving at Fallen Angel could be better, especially for people arriving in winter when it's already dark at check in time. The village is hard to find your way around when you first arrive and there is no sign on the alley that leads to the property. It has very steep access so not ideal for anyone with access needs. We found parking a pain, and the car parks are expensive and very strict. We got a fine for parking on the line, so watch out. It would be useful if they owner could warn of this as I can see someone else staying here had the same. You can actually park on the free street parking in the winter months in the village. Apart from that, it's great!
Entertainingly contemporary design; lovely view over Mousehole village, harbour and sea; very well equipped including an excellent kitchen; and the southwest coast path is on the doorstep for walkers. Overall a refreshing and delightful place to stay.
The only downside was the parking; the quay car park was a struggle as so few places available at any time.
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape