The mile-long stretch of golden beach, Praa Sands, in West Cornwall is one of the finest of the Cornish Riviera. It lies midway betwen Penzance and Helston, just off the A 394. There has been a settlement here since mediaeval times and the ruins of Pengersick Castle can be seen near the Post Office. The name Praa or Prah, Sands comes from the French for meadow (pre) - another instance, like nearby St Michael's Mount, of the similarities and connections between Cornwall and Brittany. A reminder too of its farming past. Until the 16th century farming in Cornwall was mainly vast flocks of sheep. This was superceded by cattle and arable and this in turn gave way in the early 19th century to early vegetables and flowers, especially daffodils. Some local farms sell the potatoes, cauliflowers swedes (known as turnips here) by the roadside, while the daffodils can be seen everywhere in the spring - along the roadsides, cliff wallks, and also in Villa Comino's garden.

A two-minute walk, or 30second run, from Villa Comino brings you to the seaside edge of the greensward (excellent for flying kites). From here easy wooden steps lead down to the beach. There are lifeguards on duty in high season on the beach, and any risky areas ( from cross currents or strong tides) are identified. A portion of the vast bay is allotted to surfers, who range from absolute novices to skilled 360-ers, as witnessed (below) at Praa last summer.