Holidays to Remember in Port Issac
Picturesque Port Issac is brimming with colour and character. Situated around a traditional fishing harbour and flanked by steep hills and high cliffs, Port Issac is a Cornish idyll and a great holiday destination.
The village of Port Issac is located on the north coast of Cornwall, just four miles from Wadebridge. Recently made famous with a starring role in TV drama Doc Martin, Port Issac has been an idyllic getaway for holidaymakers in the know for many decades. This old Cornish fishing village remains relatively untouched by the modern world. Fishermen still haul their catch up on to the beach each day, like they have for centuries. And rows of pretty cottages snake up-hill from the harbour in a labyrinth of steep, narrow lanes.
People visit for the natural beauty, but stay for the warm and friendly atmosphere. There are now a number of self catering holiday cottages in Port Issac for rent throughout the year.
Harbour Holidays to Remember
Port Issac Harbour in Cornwall
The harbour is naturally the centre of village life in Port Issac. It’s a majestic site, especially when the the sun is out and the tide is in, as turquoise sea sparkles below steep green cliffs. In the daytime, families paddle in rockpools or fish for crab off the harbour wall. On summer evenings, male voice choirs – such as Port Issac’s very own Fisherman’s Friends – regularly sing sea shanties on the Platt at the top of the beach.
Tastes and Treats
Port Issac Holiday Cottages and Beach
With an abundance of produce fresh from the sea and local fields, it’s inevitable that there are some fine foods to enjoy in Port Issac. From fresh crab sandwiches, to hot Cornish pasties and locally made ice creams, there are treats to suit all tastes. In recent years, the village has developed a strong culinary reputation thanks to a number of top chefs who have opened restaurants here. Chief among these is Nathan Outlaw who runs the two Michelin starred Restaurant Nathan Outlaw, as well as Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen. Other local favourites include Fresh from the Sea, the Chapel Cafe and the Golden Lion pub.
Base for Adventure
Narrow Streets in Port Issac in North Cornwall
For holidaymakers who like to get active, there is a lot to get excited about in and around Port Issac. The South West Coast Path passes right through the village, taking walkers onwards to stunning sea vistas in both directions on the Cornish coast. Waterborne activities include kayaking, stand up paddle boarding and coasteering. Neighbouring Port Gaverne is a sheltered cove perfect for wild swimming. While nearby Polzeath and Trebarwith Strand beaches are popular with surfers.
Whatever type of holiday you desire – laid-back, active or food inspired – Port Issac makes a fantastic base. See all our holiday properties in Port Issac.