Ready for an adventure? Call +44 (0)2381 449447 or email info@different-travel.com Your Account

Follow us

Bluetits: Cornish Clifftop Hotel Swimming Weekend

26th Apr 2024 - 29th Apr 2024

4 days/United Kingdom /Moderate

Overview

You’ve asked so we’ve delivered! We’re moving away from our usual bunk house accommodation for this new Bluetits trip so why not treat yourself to an extra special stay at a stunning clifftop hotel.

Spend the weekend enjoying the secret coves of Cornwall before settling down for the night at the stunning Housel Bay Hotel.

Set upon the rugged wilderness of Lizard Point, Housel Bay is the perfect base for this fun and inclusive swimming adventure.

This trip has been designed with the Bluetits Chill Swimmers to allow you to explore the impressive Cornish coastline of the Lizard Peninsula. You will be exploring rockpools, taking a dip in tidal pools and discovering hidden coves. 

The Bluetits Chill Swimmers is a social enterprise committed to empowering an inclusive community of cold water dippers. They now have more than 100,000 Bluetits across the globe. You do not have to be a Bluetit to take part and solo travellers are more than welcome.

This trip has been graded as moderate, our lowest level of difficulty. You do not need to be a great swimmer or walker to take part in this adventure weekend. The Bluetit ethos is about encouraging people to enjoy the water, even if it is just dipping your toes in!

This is not a challenge, just a chance to meet some like-minded individuals for a fun weekend.

This trip has been graded as moderate for someone of good fitness. A Bluetit motto is ‘No Bluetit Left Behind!’ so what is most important is that you feel able to enjoy the weekend.

The walks to the swimming spots will be along an undulating coastal path and will be at a gentle pace.

You will never be pressured to go out of your depth or beyond your comfort zone when it comes to swimming but you must be able to tread water in order to get the most out of the wild swimming adventure.

You do not need any experience of wild swimming to take part in this adventure weekend. It is advised that you know how to tread water to be able to get the most enjoyment out of the trip.

The weather in the UK is unpredictable and changeable so you must check the local weather forecast prior to arrival and pack accordingly.
Typically, days are cool (average 12°C) and nights are chilly (down to around 6°C). The sea temperature in April is cool and tends to be around 10°C.

Please note it is possible to experience extreme deviations from the normal climate pattern and very cold conditions are not impossible. Climate and weather conditions during the trip are out of our control. It is extremely important that you take responsibility to prepare yourself for all weather conditions during this challenge.

Our qualified Bluetit swimming guides are very used to dipping with people new to cold water swimming, and will explain what to expect at every step. We encourage you to take part in ‘The Bluetit Chorus’, which involves plenty of singing, shouting and the odd swear word to help your breath to acclimatise to the cold. Only you know your body, and we advise that you take things easy and allow your body and mind to acclimatise to the cold gradually.

Anyone aged 18+ can take part in the adventure weekend. You must have a good level of fitness, able to self-manage (e.g. you know how to keep hydrated, nourished, warm and dry) and be in good health. You will enjoy the weekend to the fullest if you enjoy being outdoors and want to gently challenge your limits with a supportive group of people. The Bluetit values are Trust, Fun and Inclusivity, and if you share these, you will love this holiday!

Please also note that all participants must be able to swim and tread water comfortably.

This challenge is accompanied by professional Bluetits swim tour guides who will offer expert instruction in techniques and supervise throughout the trip.

You will need to wear comfortable walking boots or sturdy trainers for the walking element of the weekend and we advise you to bring waterproofs given the inclement weather we can experience here in the UK.

Normal swimwear is adequate for swimming. A tow float, swim shoes and brightly-coloured hat are essential for safety reasons. Other swimming accessories, such as wet suits, rash vests, swim shoes, gloves, goggles etc., are not essential but may make you feel more comfortable.

You will also need to bring some dry clothes to change into after your swim. Your body temperature continues to cool for 20-30 minutes after you exit the water and warming up immediately is essential. Loose-fitting clothes, such as big fleecy pyjamas and oversized jumpers, are easier to put on with numb hands and fingers. A wooly hat and big gloves or mittens are also helpful.

Please see the full suggested kit list below.

We will be staying in twin-share rooms with ensuite facilities at the Housel Bay Hotel.

Single rooms are available for additional costs subject to availability.

You wil be staying a stones throw from sandy beaches, hidden coves, sea cliffs and a stunning coastal path.

Click here for more information about the hotel.

All meals will be provided as specified in the itinerary below.

Breakfast and dinner will be at the hotel. Packed lunches will be provided during the day.

If you have any dietary requirements you must inform us in advance.

Itinerary

Day 1 (Friday 26 April 2024):

Lizard Point
Arrive at Housel Bay Hotel in time to meet the group for introductions and a welcome dinner.
Meals: Dinner

Day 2 (Saturday 27 April 2024):

Spend this morning exploring the delightful bays of the Lizard Peninsula. There will be no more than 2 miles of walking (at a leisurely pace), and plenty of time for dipping!  Relax at the hotel this afternoon, or perhaps explore further afield and visit St Ives or Penzance.
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner

Day 3 (Sunday 28 April 2024):

Today we return to the shore for another morning of wild swimming. There are no great distances, and no pressure – just take it easy and enjoy the incredible surroundings from the water! You are free to spend the afternoon a your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 4 (Monday 29 April 2024):

You are free to check out of the hostel at your leisure. Perhaps go for a swim locally on your way home!
Meals: Breakfast

N.B. This itinerary may change due to weather, the ability of the group and so on. We will do our best to keep to the itinerary but we cannot be held responsible for changes outside of our control. In all circumstances your guide and tour leader will have the final say in the interest health and safety.  

Costs & How to pay

Registration fee: £145
and then…

Self-funded: £400

SELF-FUNDED

  • A registration fee is payable at the time of booking.
  • Remaining trip cost balance is payable to Different Travel 6 weeks prior to departure
  • Total cost: £545
  • Single supplement: £125 subject to availability.
  • Extra nights stays are available subject to availability and additional costs. Please make a note on your booking form if you are interested.

What's included

  • 3 nights at hotel in twin-share ensuite room
  • All meals as specified in the itinerary
  • Qualified Bluetit Swim tour guides and Bluetit Host

What's not included

  • Transport to/from Cornwall
  • Transport during trip
  • Personal expenses (e.g. tips, snacks or drinks bought locally etc.)
  • Optional activities
  • Optional tips
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal clothing and equipment (see kit list)

Have a question?

If you’ve a question about this challenge that you can’t find the answer to within the given information then complete this quick form and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.