4.4★
Carbis Bay Holidays rating
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4 Guests
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2 Bedrooms
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2 Bathrooms
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Pets No
Features
- Off road parking
- Ground floor accommodation
- Ground floor bedroom
- Garden / Patio
- Cot available
- Highchair available
- Pub/shop < 1 mile
- Washing machine
- Dishwasher
- Seaside
- Sky TV
- Broadband / WiFi
Reviews & Ratings
* Based on a combined average customer score
25 Customer Review(s)
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Andrew “Lovely apartment well fitted out and maintained.”
Very comfortable. Would have been helpful to have had some cleaning products available as we were there for a week. Would definitely come again.
Very comfortable. Would have been helpful to have had some cleaning products available as we were there for a week. Would definitely come again.
- Andrew, September 2023 -
Louise “Very clean & tidy apartment in a really good location & the 'greeting gifts' were much appreciated, as well as the milk in the fridge & the washing tablets etc.”
.. Thank you very much.
- Louise, August 2023Thank you for your fantastic feedback. We are pleased to hear that you loved the property and welcome pack! We hope to welcome you back in the future. Kinds Regards, The Carbis Bay Holidays Team Property Owner
Chris “The property was nice and had a nice view.”
One of the worst issues we had, there wasn't a vac. Sand ended up all over and was annoying. Never been anywhere without cleaning facilities. All that was provided was a dust pan and brush. When the main area is carpeted it's not ideal. It was very hot inside with not much ventilation. Had to sleep with doors open causing a security issue potentially. The 2nd bedroom didn't have a wardrobe just a very small chest of drawers. Beds were uncomfortable with very old style mattresses. Ensuite to the main bedroom was very small. Bits of plinth missing in kitchen. We enjoyed our stay but feel these points need highlighting.
- Chris, June 2023Thank you very much for taking the time to leave feedback after your stay in Mermaid's Secret. Thank you for highlighting these points, we will pass them on for consideration. We hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back in the near future. Best wishes, The Carbis Bay Holidays Team. Property Owner
Tracy “Lovely stay thank you!”
Highly recommend, we are looking forward to returning. Lovely property, perfect location. Stunning views and lovely sitting out on the terrace. Carbis Bay is a quieter resort with beautiful beaches and walks. We really enjoyed the short walk or train journey to St Ives along the coast.
- Tracy, August 2022Thank you for your wonderful feedback. We are thrilled to hear that you loved the area, property and your stay! Thank you so much again for your comments and we look forward to the opportunity to welcome you back in the future. Kinds Regards, The Carbis Bay Holidays Team Property Owner
Andrew “Very good all round quick train ride In to st ives beech’s fantastic defo will be back”
- Andrew, July 2022Thank you for your feedback. We are thrilled to hear that you loved your stay! Thank you so much again for your comments and we look forward to the opportunity to welcome you back in the future. Kinds Regards, The Carbis Bay Holidays Team Property Owner
Melanie “Fab stay at Mermaid's secret.”
Great location with just a short stroll to the beach.
- Melanie, June 2022Thank you for your wonderful feedback. We do hope to welcome you back again soon. Best Regards The Carbis Bay Holidays Team. Property Owner
Sophie “We had the best time staying here with our 4 year old and 3 month old.”
A combination of views of the sea from the living area / both bedrooms, along with the outside space was perfect when we couldn't get out as early as we wanted with 2 kids! The flat itself was beautifully decorated, and sky cinema on the TV was much appreciated when the kids went to bed. The car park is gated so felt very secure and the beach was a fairly short walk away, albeit a very steep hill to push a pram up! The train station was a couple of mins walk away and train to St ives was a total of £4.80 for all 4 us which was amazing. We also went swimming at the local pool in St ives and the little children's pool had a slide so it was perfect for both age kids. The only thing that wasn't completely perfect was that it wasn't perfectly clean, I think probably because the hoover seemed to be broken while we were there and some of the oven trays / dishes were a bit greasy so I put them through the dishwasher before I used them. I would definitely return without hesitation - we have many happy family memories from our week here.
- Sophie, April 2022Dear Mrs Bennett, thank you for taking the time to leave such insightful Feedback following your recent stay at Mermaids Secret and so good to hear you had the best time! I am sorry that the property did not meet our usual high standards of cleanliness, we have passed this on to the Housekeeper at the property for their attention. We look forward to welcoming you back in the future and the opportunity for you and the family to make lots more happy memories. Kind regards, The Carbis bay Holidays Team Property Owner
Charlotte “We had a wonderful stay.”
Everything was perfect from the location, the views, the amenities in the property. it was like a home from home. The only thing we required was a mop for the kitchen and a hoover which worked which would have allowed us clean before we left. Also the headboard in 2nd bedroom was dangerous as was loose from the wall. Other than that we had a great break. thank you
- Charlotte, April 2022Thank you so much for your positive feedback. Your comments have been taken on board, reported to the relevant departments and we just wanted to make you aware that the headboard has been fixed. We are glad to hear that you had a wonderful stay, thank you again and we hope to welcome you back in the near future. Kind Regards, The Carbis Bay Holidays Team Property Owner
Sadie “We have stayed at other properties within this complex many times, this apartment cost more than previous ones, and the finish ie the quality of the fixtures and fittings were no comparison.”
The cleanliness could have been improved also, ie the bathroom towel rail was dusty the sink and shower looked a little unclean as did the grout in the shower. Having said all this we had a very enjoyable week stay, however we missed the festive decorations which have always been around during other new year stays, which we feel that when you are paying a premium are a very nice touch.
- Sadie, December 2021Thank you very much for your feedback. We are sorry to hear that some areas were not up to our usual standard for you, the housekeeper does send a video and pictures after they have cleaned the property to the owner to ensure that the high standards have been met. It may be that the “dust” was from the fogging solution as the property is fogged after the cleaner has finished for an extra measure, but I understand from your feedback that this will be ceasing as it is sometimes seen as “dust”. Unfortunately, festive decorations are only for bookings that overlap Christmas Day, so if you did wish to book for Christmas and booked in advance these would be provided for you. Your feedback has been taken on board and reported to the necessary departments to ensure these things do not occur again and changes can be made, please do always call the office on 01736 630015 (option 2) if you do have any issues which need addressing asap during your stay. Thank you again and we hope to welcome you back in the near future. Kind Regards, The Carbis Bay Holidays Team Property Owner
Aisling “Yes please.”
The gates for pedestrians and cars are a nightmare. The code panel for the pedestrian gate doesn't work and the drivers panel is put at completely the wrong height for the driver. My bed linen was very old and tired (and I mean very) Also my towels had stains and they also looked over washed and old. Lift broken all week and my 75 year old mother had to lift her case up and downstairs. Not giving the Sky pin so that we could watch the TV properly was pathetic.
- Aisling, September 2021Dear Aisling, Firstly we would like to thank you for taking the time to submit feedback regarding your recent stay at Mermaid's Secret. Your feedback has been passed on to the housekeeper and owner regarding the linen and towels, the housekeeper has confirmed that the linen and the towels are brand new so if there was any issues with the linen and towels during your stay please do get in touch and we’ll be able to rectify this urgently for you. We are sincerely sorry for the inconvenience caused by the lift being out of order. We are in constant communication with the development company and they assure us the part has been ordered and is being delivered from abroad and this should be sorted shortly; hope this didn't impact you stay too much. In regard to the Sky pin, apologies you found this unacceptable, however this allows purchases to be made, which would result in the additional charges being put through to the owner. We hope to invite you back in the future. Kind Regards, Carbis Bay Holidays Team Property Owner
Louise “Accommodation was very well located and had all the facilities we needed.”
It was clean and very quiet considering how busy the area was. The view was better than the photos. One minor point - neither of the televisions in the bedrooms worked. We would stay here again.
- Louise, August 2021Dear Louise, We would like to thank you for taking the opportunity to submit feedback. Lovely to hear that you found the apartment had all you needed and I agree the view is quite something...... We are sorry to learn the TV's weren't working. We like to have the opportunity to rectify any issues during your stay, had we been made aware, we could have sorted this for you at the earliest convenience. Here at Carbis Bay Holidays, we have a dedicated line to guests in situ; you can speak to us in the local office and we will get the issues sorted as soon as possible. Look forward to inviting you back in the future, Kind Regards, Carbis Bay Holidays Property Owner
Austin “The apartment is lovely and we actually stayed here for the second time in 2 years.”
There was a fault on the dishwasher and bathroom sink which I'm glad were fixed when reported. Although the patio door key is difficult to unlock and the bin store key is still difficult to open. Perhaps a little tlc is requred.
- Austin, July 2021Ginette “The apartment is in a great location, but it is getting a bit tired, needs some maintenance.”
Very disappointed that the apartment was not clean, especially with Covid, we expected it to be spotless. Toilets were dirty, plugs blocked & full of hair, kitchen not clean. Carpet not hoovered properly, on looking no bag in the Hoover?! Bedding not sure if fresh as lots of hair on pillow! Thick dust everywhere. It spoilt our arrival, I had to clean as best I could & change bed linen. Made us feel uncomfortable. I reported this & received a call but no follow up. Not expected for a 5 star luxury apartment given the price paid. The location cannot be relied on alone.
- Ginette, July 2021Thank you for taking the time to provide the feedback, we take any issues regarding cleaning very seriously. We have been in touch with the housekeeping team to ensure the items you have highlighted are sorted but we understand that you arrived early and entered the property before the housekeeping team had finished their work. We can confirm that you spoke to the local office and a cleaner was sent back almost as soon as you call came in on the 3rd July to resolve the issues you reported. Unfortunately, the lift was not able to be repaired during your stay but the block management company who look after the building have worked on sourcing a part which has been replaced and the lift is now working. The property is regularly assessed by Visit England and any issues are highlighted on these visits to be addressed and ensure the property is kept to its high standard. Property Owner
Manoj “Fantastic apartment with great facilities.”
2 minor quibbles; Although I recieved a detailed check-in email, I wasn't given the keycode for the car park gate, luckily another guest was entering who gave me the code. Also, the bin store key for our apartment was very temperamental, another guest tried but couldn't open it, yet they had a key which was easy to use. Also, the tv's in the bedrooms had no signal. Otherwise a great stay and will be back again!
- Manoj, June 2021Review “"Just returned from a fabulous holiday at Carbis Bay.”
The open plan apartment is extremely clean, spacious, comfortable and light with lounge and bedrooms benefiting from open views to sea and St Ives in the distance. A very well-equipped kitchen made food preparation so easy. There are many beautiful beaches to choose from nearby and with the single-track railway or coastal path into St Ives just down the hill a car is not essential. St Michaels Mount, The Minack Theatre, Mousehole, Lands’ End are just a few interesting places to visit during a stay. We found our stay at Mermaid's Secret so relaxing and hope to return again soon."
S Brierley- Review, Sep 2019Review “"The apartment was lovely- had everything we needed and very well equipped.”
Was nice to be met by Steve and shown around when we arrived. Cream tea and goodies were a nice touch."
Joanna Thomas- Review, Apr 2019Testimonial ““The apartment was excellent with everything exactly as described in the accommodation details.”
The views were excellent and it was nice being able to have an early morning coffee outside on the patio enjoying the surroundings and the fabulous weather we had whilst there.” M.Parsons
- Testimonial, Aug 2015Testimonial “"We had a lovely holiday at Mermaid’s Secret, Carbis Bay.”
The accommodation was fantastic, lovely and clean and very comfortable and the views across to St Ives were just gorgeous, especially in the evening when the lights came on. We had some great days out, would particularly recommend St Michaels Mount and Cape Cornwall, where our two boys loved scrambling around on the rocks (as did mum and dad, truth be told!). Enjoyed a fabulous meal at the Badger Inn in Lelant." C. Watson
- Testimonial, Jul 2015Testimonial “"The standard of accommodation at Mermaid’s Secret was outstanding, from the warm welcome to the cleanliness of the apartment.”
From making the initial booking right through to receiving the confirmation email the administration was exceptional. We particularly enjoyed the costal path to St Ives with the comforting knowledge if the weather changed you could always catch the train home. The costal path to Porth Kidney Sands was also worth the effort as the views across the Atlantic were amazing. The costal road from St Ives to St Just was also quite an adventure with lots of opportunities to stop and take in the breath taking views, not forgetting the cream teas along the way. We definitely hope to return to this area in the future as we still have so much more to explore." G. Woodhouse
- Testimonial, Jul 2015Testimonial “"This was our third holiday with Carbis Bay,and the standard has been suberb.”
Always, well equipped and spotlessly clean. We were met by Kerry who showed us in and explained the keys,etc. We loved the cream tea,and the chocolate.A lovely touch and very welcoming. We will definitely be booking for next Easter." R. Bateman
- Testimonial, Jun 2015Testimonial “"Another fantastic holiday in Cornwall.”
Highlights for us included, a nice warm flat on arrival, decorated christmas tree, Christmas lights at Angarrack and Mousehole. Surely unsurpassed by village displays anywhere else in the UK? Carol singing in St Ives streets on Christmas Eve (10pm to midnight) also the general 'buzz' in St Ives - almost as busy as the summer months for the whole of our stay! The convenience and cost effectiveness of the local train (massively cheaper than St Ives car parking fees)." N. Ritchie
- Testimonial, Jun 2015Testimonial “"The apartment seemed very spacious and was spotlessly clean, very well equipped and smelt very fresh when we first arrived.”
We had lunch twice at the Blue Snappa in Penzance, the food was really fresh and tasted good. We twice ate in cafe by the Tate on Porthmeor Beach, the views great from this venue. Love the outside cubicle seating areas with decking cushions and thoughtful throws for when it gets chilly. Carbis bay beach so clean and user friendly. The walk up and down from apartments very good exercise. The walk to St Ives from apartment pleasant and do able for all abilities. Love the ride on the train when we couldnt be bothered to walk back and cheaper than catching any of the short hop local buses. We are Barbara Hepworth fans so loved the museum and garden. The weather was glorious for nearly the whole week. Loved the exhibition at the Tate and enjoyed our cream tea at Penlee House. We would certainly recommend Mermaid’s Secret at the Sands apartment." T, Considine
- Testimonial, May 2015Testimonial “"Mermaid’s Secret was spotlessly clean, very well equipped and smelt very fresh when we first arrived.”
The walk up and down to the beach from apartments was very good exercise. The walk to St Ives from apartment pleasant and do-able for all abilities. Love the ride on the train when we couldnt be bothered to walk back and cheaper than catching any of the short hop local buses." T. Lynch & T. Considine
- Testimonial, May 2015Testimonial “"As you know we have been staying with Carbis Bay Holidays for a number of years so to say that Mermaid’s Secret exceeded our expectations is high praise indeed!”
In terms of attractions we didn’t do as much as previous years as we have visited a number of the sights before and therefore we spent most of our time on the beaches of Carbis Bay and St. Ives enjoying the glorious weather. We did visit the Tate Gallery and Minack Theatre which I would recommend. We always book the Minack Theatre at the same time as we book our accommodation as this can get booked up in the high season. With regards to restaurants we ate at the Alba (good food and great view over the harbour) and Sea Food Cafe both in St. Ives which are both very good." J. Adams
- Testimonial, Apr 2015Testimonial “"Just in reply to your email, we had a lovely time at the apartment.”
Everything was pristine. Thank you again for a lovely stay and hope to rebook with yourselves in June!" R Lewis
- Testimonial, Mar 2015Summary
- Ground-floor apartment
- Two bedrooms: 1 x double with en-suite walk-in shower, basin and WC, 1 x twin
- Bathroom with bath, hand-held shower, basin, heated towel rail, and WC
- Open-plan living space with kitchen, dining and sitting area
- Gas central heating
- Oven/grill, gas hob with wok ring, combi microwave and top oven, fridge, freezer, washing machine, tumble dryer, dishwasher and coffee machine
- TV with Sky Package including movies & sport, 2 x TV with Freeview, DVD player with selection of DVDs, Ipod dock, PS3 with Blu-Ray DVD and selection of games and DVDs, Wifi
- Fuel and power inc. in rent
- Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
- Highchair and travel cot available on request
- Off-road gated parking for 1 car
- Seaward facing patio and seaward facing communal garden with furniture
- Sorry, no pets and no smoking
- Shop, pub and beach 0.3 miles
- Note: We request that guests provide their own cot bedding
- Note: Check-in is from 4pm, check-out is 10am
Awards
The property
Sumptuously furnished in a contemporary style to create a sophisticated yet relaxing feel, this ground floor apartment has floor to ceiling sea views from the spacious living accommodation and both bedrooms. Enjoy the patio and watch the sun set over St Ives, if you are looking for quality accommodation to enjoy the delights of West Cornwall, you will not be disappointed with Mermaid’s Secret. Style, sophistication balanced with comfort and relaxed atmosphere and Sky package - the perfect combination. Highlights - Mermaid’s Secret is located in The Sands apartments in Carbis Bay and is on the ground floor. - Children welcome. - Regret no pets. No smoking. - Sea views from the living area comprising lounge and dining areas, kitchen and both bedrooms. Entertainment - Complimentary Wireless Internet. - Playstation III with Blu-Ray DVD functionality and selection of games and DVDs. - DVD player with selection of DVDs. - iPod Dock. - LCD television with Sky Sports & Movies package to the living area and LCD televisions with Freeview to both bedrooms. - Selection of board games, library of books, O.S. Maps and information on the local area. For Families - Complimentary travel cot and booster seat available for use. - Please bring you own cot bedding. Access - Access to the apartment from the car park entrance to The Sands with lift or stair access. - Detailed access statement available on request. Parking - One allocated parking space is provided within the gated car park. Living Area Lounge Area The large open plan living area has lovely views across the bay towards St Ives, guests will be impressed with the care and attention to detail in the contemporary design. There is 32" LCD Toshiba TV with Sky Sports & Movies package, Playstation III with selection of games, DVD player, complimentary wireless broadband and remote control mood lighting. There are designer settees for four guests and matching footstool. Guests will always be tempted to just relax and take in the views from the patio adjoining the lounge area. Dining The dining area of Mermaid’s Secret is part of the open plan living accommodation and is adjacent to the kitchen. A large dining table and four chairs are provided for guests. Budding chefs will enjoy the fact they can not only share the view but also converse with fellow guests seated on stools at the breakfast bar. Mermaid’s Secret is fitted with mood lighting to provide a relaxing ambience for dining. Carbis Bay and in particular St Ives are widely renowned for their choice of fine dining and family restaurants, you will be tempted to try many of these but perhaps the dining room of Mermaid’s Secret will offer an alternative. The Welcome Guide contains a number of recommendations for dining out or takeaway meals. Kitchen Kitchen The kitchen of Mermaid’s Secret has contemporary high quality German kitchen units with soft close drawers and doors. Appliances are by NEFF and include multi purpose main oven, grill, combined microwave and top oven, fridge, freezer, dishwasher, washing machine, dryer, gas hob with wok ring, extractor hood, grey stone floor, concealed up-lighting and other wall lighting. The layout of the open plan living area makes it easy for chef to chat to guests whilst cooking and there are two bar stools provided for those who like to advise aspiring chefs! As you would expect in an apartment of this quality, alternative place settings are provided for indoor and outdoor use, and of course champagne flutes for that special occasion. Sleeping Bedroom One En-Suite The master bedroom has lovely views of the bay through the door which also provides access to the lawned garden and the decked patio of Mermaid’s Secret. Wake up, draw the curtains and perhaps have an early morning cup of tea and take in the view. The master bedroom has a 22" LCD Freeview TV with integrated DVD player, double bed and has plenty of storage space with a fitted wardrobe, chest of drawers, bedside tables and overhead reading lights. A hairdryer is provided and the beds are freshly made for your arrival. The en-suite to the master bedroom is beautifully tiled in sandstone and has a WC, handbasin and shower. Bedroom Two The second bedroom of Mermaid’s Secret has two single beds, chest of drawers and a bedside table with reading lights. This bedroom is also on the seaward side of the apartment with sea views. A 22" LCD Freeview TV with integrated DVD player is provided for guests together with a hair dryer. Bathrooms Bathroom One Mermaid’s Secret has a very spacious family bathroom with wash basin, WC, bath with hand shower and a large mirrored bathroom cabinet with shaving point. The tiling is sandstone, the sanitaryware is white Italian style and the fittings are sleek chrome. Bathroom Two The en-suite to the master bedroom has an Italian style wash basin, WC, shower enclosure with power shower and heated towel rail. The room is tiled with sandstone ceramics and there is a superb feature wall. A selection of luxury towels are provided for each guest. Outside Patio Mermaid’s Secret enjoys lovely sea views across St. Ives Bay. Adjoining the lawned and landscaped garden, the patio has a table and chairs for four people. A great place for al-fresco dining whether it be breakfast, lunch or dinner, in the evening you can enhance the ambiance with soft lighting.
Floorplans
Ground Floor
The Sands
The Sands Apartments are a prestigious development of contemporary apartments of various designs, ideally positioned to maximise the views across St Ives Bay and convenient for the Blue Flag accredited Carbis Bay beach.
Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £250.
View on map
About the location
CARBIS BAY
St Ives 2 miles ; Hayle 3.5 miles ; Penzance 8.5 miles
Just a short drive from iconic St Ives, the seaside village of Carbis Bay is best-known for its beautiful stretch of pure white sand. With turquoise waters and sheltered conditions, the beach feels almost subtropical and is the perfect spot for a good old-fashioned day by the sea. The beach is also home to the Ocean Sports Centre, so if sunbathing is not really your thing, why not hire a kayak or SUP and get out on the water instead. Or why not treat yourself to a Spa day at the delightful hotel which overlooks the beach and has a fabulous terrace where cocktails can be enjoyed in the Cornish sunshine? Carbis Bay has a small range of local shops and restaurants as well as a fish & chip takeaway and railway branch line. The train journey from Carbis Bay into St Ives is perhaps one of the most beautiful in the country; St Ives additionally makes for a great day out, with plenty of galleries to explore. The quayside town of Hayle also isn't far and is home to activities for the all the family, including a golf and a wildlife sanctuary. The Godrevy Nature Reserve and Penwith Heritage Coast are also within easy reach from Carbis Bay, providing outdoors and watersports plans with even more activities to partake in, including coasteering and birdwatching. Carbis Bay is truly a wonderful holiday location for those wanting to experience Cornwall's breathtaking coastline.
There is a Good Housekeeping Bond of £100 for this property.
Access to the apartment from the car park entrance to The Sands with lift or stair access. Lift access should not be solely relied upon as if not operational due to maintenance / fault you will need to use the stairs.
Azure development - please note the new Azure Development (8 dwellings) adjacent to The Sands apartments has now been substantially constructed, but there may be some ongoing completion works continuing in to 2024.
SKY TV: The owner is pleased to be able to provide this property with Sky TV, please check the description for the Sky package provided. Please note that the PIN to the Sky box cannot be provided. Therefore there may be viewing restrictions applied during the day as per Ofcom regulations e.g. Watershed limitations. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.This property offers the following short breaks:
- Christmas
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