There are two beautiful lakes on the land at Pengelly Retreat, fed by the stream that forms our border, and home to wild brown trout and a whole range of birds, butterflies and dragonflies. Relax and enjoy the lakeside views, wild swim in the lake or have a go at catch and release fishing during your holiday in Cornwall.
Wild Swimming
Both our luxury lodge and yurt have pontoons with steps into the water of the lake. The lake here is very deep and the sides shelve off sharply so you must be a confident swimmer and use a buoyancy aid. Please be aware that any swimming is at your own risk and if you are intending to swim you should check your insurance policy to ensure you are covered for this. If you’re looking for something gentler then there are wonderfully peaceful spots by the stream where you can paddle and cool off your feet. After your wild swim or paddle in the stream, warm up in the fabulous outdoor shower at the Sail House yurt or the outdoor bath with lake views at the Boat House cabin. Open water swimmers will also love the beautiful beaches close by to Pengelly Retreat, perfect for an ocean plunge. See our Best Beaches recommendations in the Explore Section for suggestions.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding and Boating
Why not have a go a either SUP or boating on the lake during your stay here at Pengelly Retreat? We provide a SUP board at the Sail House yurt or you are very welcome to bring your own boards. While at the Boat House cabin there is a small row boat for taking a leisurely turn around the lake – the perfect photo opportunity!
Catch & Release Fishing
Both the largest lake and the second lake beyond it and well stocked with wild brown trout. We’ve had no success in catching any, they’re far too smart for us. But if you’d like to take up the challenge then bring your fishing rod along! Even if you don’t catch a fish, it’s a great excuse to put your feet up with a glass of something cold in hand and enjoy the views over the lakes. We have a catch and release policy here and ask that you use barbless hooks only.
Birdlife
The Boat House wood cabin and The Sail House Cornish yurt both overlook the largest lake here which is a magnificent 200 metre stretch of water flanked by reeds and bulrushes with a mysterious wild little island in the middle. It’s a real haven for birds with moorhen and ducks happily nesting here. We often see a grey heron and even the bright blue and orange flash of a kingfisher.
Wildlife
The stream that forms our border also feeds two large lakes, a set of ponds and smaller streams that run across the land. This lush riverine habitat is home to gorgeous Cornish wild flowers and trees, birds, butterflies and dragonflies. We’ve found deer, fox and badger tracks on our land.
