One of the best surfers the world has ever produced, Bobby Brown, was born in New York in 1912 and lived to the grand old age of ninety six. He pioneered body surfing in California, using an eighty pound redwood board, and was amongst the first to surf the massive, deadly dangerous rollers in Hawaii. He, like many surfers today, swore by the sport’s meditative qualities and positive energy. A lifelong optimist, he believed surfing frees the spirit and heals the emotions as well as keeping you extraordinarily fit.

Have you ever tried surfing? It looks so elegant and effortless, skimming the surface of the deep blue sea and tumbling through the sparkling white surf, coming to a graceful stop on the warm, damp sand. Surfers say learning to surf is easy. All you need is the advice of a surf school instructor, qualified to deliver professional surf coaching lessons or private surf instruction, and a load of practice.

Surfing is difficult to resist in Cornwall, where the seas are ideal for learners and surf schools abound. And Cornish self catering cottages are the best possible kind of accommodation if you’re hell bent on learning the not-so-gentle art of surfing while you’re there on your holidays.

Why? Because you need plenty of lovely, comfortable indoor space in which to warm up, chill out, dry your surfing gear and cook yourself a nutritious, delicious meal after wards. A hotel room or B&B just doesn’t cut the mustard. It’s great fun learning to surf with friends and family, so Cornwall coastal cottages are also the best option if you’re a hen or stag party, family group or bunch of friends. You can get together in the evenings and chat through your day’s experiences together in a comfy home from home. Perfect.

Brits enjoying Cornish self catering holidays flock to the county’s many excellent surf schools. If you’re in the market for surf lessons this year, here’s some tips for choosing the best school for your needs.

First, check that the surf school’s instructors are qualified by the British Surfing Association to provide lessons for every ability, safely and professionally. The sea can be dangerous and surfing comes with risks, so it’s essential to find a teacher who knows about the safety aspects as well as being able to surf like a pro! Look for instructors who are also qualified NARS beach lifeguards for a belt-and-braces approach. The best surf schools provide good quality surfboards and wetsuits too. Cornish seas are beautiful but this is the Atlantic, so it’s never going to be as warm as Hawaii! Surfing lessons cost from about £20 each for a half day and most offer packages too, which often come at a discount. Enjoy!