Guests say
Downlea is a well-equipped, spacious cottage with a beautiful garden, offering a comfortable stay and a convenient location for exploring Looe. The property has received praise for its cleanliness, new kitchen and bathroom, and comfortable beds, though some guests noted steep access and maintenance issues.
Most guests found the cottage to be clean and well-maintained, with a few noting areas for improvement such as under sofas and the presence of spider webs. The property was generally praised for its cleanliness, but the few negative comments slightly affect the score.
The location is highly regarded for its proximity to Looe's shops, pubs, and restaurants, with beautiful views and a convenient parking space. However, the steep access and steps were a concern for some guests, particularly those with mobility issues.
Guests have commented on the comfortable beds and spaciousness of the cottage, contributing to a pleasant stay. Some guests found the beds too soft and the property cold at times, which slightly lowers the comfort score.
The cottage is praised for its well-equipped kitchen and powerful shower, but some guests reported maintenance issues such as slippery steps, overgrown gardens, and the need for a deep clean. These issues suggest room for improvement in facilities and maintenance.
While some guests mentioned a welcome basket and local information provided, there is not enough consistent information across reviews to accurately assess the level of thoughtfulness in terms of gifts or extra touches. Therefore, this score is set to null, and guests should note that such amenities are not guaranteed.
About this property
Downlea is a traditionally styled characterful cottage in a pretty, elevated spot in Looe resort, a 5 minute stroll from the buzzing harbour in coastal Looe resort. Set over two floors, the accommodation is well presented and comfortable, with an open-plan sitting room with comfy sofas and snuggly open fire for those cooler months, with a dining area perfect for foody get-togethers. The kitchen has all the appliances and leads to the terraced garden, with steps up to the paved patio (please supervise children) with garden furniture for sundowner drinks or sunshine morning latte. The first floor has three bedrooms, the double and single boast scenic country views with a teasing Looe River glimpse.
At the rear, the cosier double bedroom and bathroom, with separate WC, complete this charismatic cottage. Colourful Looe harbour and the long stretch of sandy beach makes this a popular coastal destination, with inns, restaurants, cafes and galleries lining the waterside. Enjoy a fishing or pleasure boat trip – the excursion to Looe Island’s bird and wildlife sanctuary is stunning. The two beaches have rock pools and caves to explore or discover the woodlands on a ramble or hired cycle. Fabulous Fowey is a ferry ride away, with the Eden Project and beautiful Heligan Gardens within easy reach. Downlea makea a super retreat for family, friends and couples seeking coastal and country adventures, whatever time of year.
Looe is Cornwall’s second largest fishing port - there is always a lively maritime bustle around the quay area of East Looe, which is connected to the quieter West Looe by a seven arched 19th century bridge over the River. You can also catch the river taxi between East and West Looe. East Looe has narrow cobbled streets, twisting alleyways and plenty of tourist shops, whilst West Looe has a lovely outlook across the harbour. Looe’s viewpoint, Banjo Pier, can be reached from the quay and is a great spot to watch the returning fishing trawlers and look across the bay to Looe Island, which can be walked to occasionally at very low tides.
Accommodation
Over two floors.
Three bedrooms: 1 x double, 1 x 4’ double and 1 x single.
Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin.
Separate WC.
Kitchen.
Open plan living/dining area with open fire.
Gas central heating.
Gas oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, tumble dryer, dishwasher.
TV, WiFi.
Fuel and power included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Selection of books, games and DVD’s.
One well behaved pet welcome, Off road parking for 1 car.
Paved garden at front and rear terrace with garden seating.
Two well-behaved pets welcome.
Sorry, no smoking.
Beach, shops and pub 5 mins walk.
Note: There are 12 external steps to the front door and similar number of external steps to the rear elevated garden.
This property is not suitable for anyone with limited mobility.
Note: Please supervise children.
Nearby points of interest
- Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park
- Eden Project
Reviews (25)
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Sarah
There is a lack of level outside space for our dog but we discovered the downs a short walk away which are great for exercising the dog with sea views. The walk into the town and harbour is not difficult with several routes to choose depends on your agility. Looe has lots offer , we discovered the farm shop and fish mongers near the quay and plenty of small shops to explore. Eating out was easy the Salutation Inn in the town serves great quality food and has a good vibe. Great value evening meals at Sails near the beach. We visited Polperro and Fowey lovely places to wander around and enjoy the views.
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Charles Barry
It was not good however because of the steep hill we had to climb to get back to the house. Even worse were the steps leading up to the front door and up the back garden. Made of stone, they were extremely steep, very slippy, and the handrail buried in the bushes. This made getting heavy luggage both in and out very dodgy indeed as a fall would have been possibly serious. It was dangerous for everybody let alone people with limited mobility. In addition parking in the allotted space was often very difficult because of the narrowness of the lane and the fact that cars were nearly always parked directly opposite. The house itself was very spacious and comfortable and well equipped although some fittings needed to be improved. It was also unfortunately surrounded by some very shabby property in dire need of renovation.
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Cole
It has a good sized parking space at the front for a small to medium sized car (we have a medium sized SUV which fitted fine), Wi-Fi and a good kitchen and bathroom with everything you are likely to need. There are three downsides. First the access via a narrow and steep stair case will make it difficult for some, but this would be significantly improved if the folliage were cut back and the steps jet sprayed making them less slippy when wet; the front of the house has masses of ivy stealing most the light from the main lounge making the room dark and hard to read in; and finally, three light bulbs were blown that needed replacing. All maintenance issues that if corrected would make this holiday property perfect!