Mother Bear

There's something effortlessly sophisticated about this apartment in the Welsh resort town of Penarth. The huge window that runs across one side of the home across both floors means that the interior is never short of natural light and the design choices have been made to accentuate this gift, especially the sleek kitchen surfaces, white walls and parquet-style flooring.

As well as being gloriously modern in style, there's a whole host of perks that come with this address, too. On the second floor, you'll find a small balcony that overlooks the complex's courtyard with room to sit and enjoy some peace. The building also has a gym taking up the ground floor, for which guests get complimentary access during their stay.

Penarth has plenty of coastal attractions to keep you occupied, including a pier and marina both fifteen minutes' walk away. The centre of Cardiff takes a similar amount of time to reach on the train, while Barry Island and its beach can be reached in just over twenty minutes' drive.

Home truths:
*The gym on the ground floor is open to the public
*Although there's a lift in the building to reach this first-floor apartment, it's split over two floors, so it might not be suitable for guests with reduced mobility
*Guests get one space in the secure underground car park and there are additional spots on the street
*Both double beds can be arranged as twin singles if preferred, providing the host is informed of this wish seven days before arrival
*The host looks after three apartments in the building, so it's possible to accommodate groups larger than six in separate units
*A travel cot can be provided upon request