Malt Cottage

Malt Cottage: Devon

Kitted out in whites and blues, rattan, faux fur throws, and macrame, this beach house in West Buckland will not only make for a very stylish stay, but just so happens to also be the perfect base of operations for any watersports enthusiasts. Bantham beach – a twenty-minute walk away, seven minutes by car if you’re eager to get there – is famous for being a surfing beach, so if you’ve always wanted to try, or maybe you've mastered the surfboard already, this will likely be your first port of call. If that’s not quite in your wheelhouse, there’s always paddleboarding, and if you feel safer on solid ground, simply walk the dunes or spend the day sunbathing instead. Look out for the famous Gastrobus where you can find breakfast, pizzas and snacks. Days can also be spent walking the coastal path to South Milton, exploring the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or golfing at the local course.

Make it back home in time to watch the sunset from the comfort of the garden furniture outside and stay out there for a while before heading back in to get dinner ready – that is, of course, if you haven’t already dined out. Find a spot at the dining table, and after you’ve eaten, clear the table to get a board game set up for some friendly competition. As it gets chillier, light the wood-burning stove before settling in for a bit of late-night television and a chill glass of wine.

Home truths:
*There’s free parking for up to two cars on the driveway
*Hen and stag parties are not allowed at this home
*This home is spread over two floors, with no internal lift
*You'll have your own private entrance here
*There's a dedicated office here if you need to catch up on some work during your stay
*There's an outdoor shower here
*You'll have to bring your own beach towels