If you’re looking for unique things to do in Cornwall, especially something calming and a little bit different, alpaca experiences are becoming one of the most popular ways to slow down and reconnect with nature. This visit to Old Lanwarnick Cottages near Looe gave me a real behind-the-scenes look at what’s coming this summer.
One of the things I love most about teaching jewellery isn’t just the silver, the skills or even the finished pieces.
It’s the people.
Over time, something really special has started to happen in my Cornwall workshops. Students don’t just come, make something beautiful and leave — they connect. Friendships form. Support grows. And before you know it, we’re showing up for each other in ways that go far beyond the bench.
Yesterday was one of those moments.
A couple of us headed over to see Vicky — one of my lovely silversmithing students — who runs Old Lanwarnick Cottages, a beautiful luxury accommodation tucked away in the Cornish countryside.
But this wasn’t just a social visit.
Vicky is building something really special alongside the cottages — a herd of alpacas, with plans to offer alpaca trekking experiences from May and through the summer.
And we got to be part of the behind-the-scenes.
🦙 Getting Hands-On (and Slightly Outmanoeuvred)
Our job? Helping with halter training the boys.
That meant getting them used to:
- Wearing a halter
- Being on a lead
- And most importantly… people
Different faces, different energies, different levels of confidence.
This was my second visit and the difference already is incredible. You can really see them starting to trust the process and relax into it.
And their personalities? Absolutely brilliant.
I know you’re not supposed to have favourites… but Toulouse might be mine.
Big in stature, big in personality and just a little bit cheeky. He gave me a proper look at first — very much assessing the situation — but eventually allowed a sniff and even a cuddle, so I’m taking that as a win 😳😂
Then there was Toddy…
Halter on ✔️
Lead on ✔️
Out of the shed ✔️
And then… he simply sat down.
Completely done.
No amount of coaxing, encouragement, gentle pushing or pleading was going to shift him. Not a chance.
He stayed exactly where he was until his friends went back into the shed — at which point he got up and followed them like nothing had happened.
Honestly, I respect it.
Want to Visit the Alpacas?
If you’re reading this thinking “I need this in my life” — you probably do.
Vicky is getting ready to launch her alpaca trekking experiences this summer and honestly, it’s going to be something really special.
You can find out more about her beautiful space (and keep an eye out for booking details) here:
👉 Old Lanwarnick Cottages
Whether you’re staying in the cottages or just coming for the alpacas, it’s one of those places that instantly makes you feel calmer the moment you arrive.
💛 And If You Fancy Being Part of This Community…
If you’ve been thinking about trying jewellery making or just want a creative space where you can meet like-minded people, you’re always very welcome in my workshops too: Courses
Because this — right here — is what it’s all about.
