Barnstaple

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Picture waking up to the sound of rolling waves each morning, whiling away afternoons on the beach just steps from your door and ending the evenings with cocktails on the terrace as the sun dips below the sea. Sounds dreamy, right? Well, that's a day in the life at this contemporary coastal apartment, right on the banks of Saunton Sands. 

With incredible ocean views, direct footpath access to the sandy beach and a shared terrace where you can soak it all in, this sleek apartment is the pinnacle of shoreside living. Effortlessly chic, the minimalist living space is decorated in calm greys and crisp whites. Not only is it a soothing space to retreat to after a day in the sun, but it's super roomy and drenched in light from the floor-to-ceiling windows. Home cooks will have everything they need to rustle up family dinners in the glossy kitchen, but our favourite room is the elegant main bedroom, which has a lavish freestanding bathtub perfect for relaxing.

Surfers will love catching waves on Saunton Sands – there's even wetsuit and surfboard storage as well as an outdoor shower on-site. Keen walkers can trek the South West Coastal Path – it runs directly past the apartment – while golfers can hit the links at Saunton Golf Club. For pubs and restaurants, head inland to Braunton (five minutes by car), or for a change of scenery, make the fifteen-minute drive to Woolacombe.

Sands On the Horizon

Escape to the edge of Exmoor National Park and revel in a family-friendly stay just a stone's throw from the unspoiled moorlands, award-winning beaches and perfect peeling waves of North Devon.

This well-appointed lodge brings an inviting open layout and a touch of style to this breathtaking countryside setting, making it ideal for families looking to spend quality time together. In addition to the comfortable seating area, a wrap-around balcony ensures ample space for four, whatever the weather decides. At the same time, the gently bubbling private hot tub is perfect for post-surf soaks. 

Finally, a fully equipped kitchen is convenient for self-sufficient stays, with the award-winning Coach House brasserie on hand for those evenings when you don't feel like cooking. Alternatively, for less formal fare, eating fish and chips off your lap as you look out over the sea is hard to top. 

Northshore Lodge

Once the shelter of livestock and haybales, this old farm barn has been converted into a luxury spot for a big family or group of friends. You’ve got a hot tub and plenty of sun loungers on the deck to soak up the Devon sun. There’s dining for the group, too, courtesy of the barbecue, and a chiminea can keep things warm after the sun goes down. From the deck, you’ve got stunning views of Coulscott’s Valley. Within the grounds, you’ve also got a shared indoor swimming pool, games room and outdoor area play area for the kids. Why not stop by the animal enclosures in the morning for feeding sessions with one of the fifty animals on site? 

Head inside to a triple-height drawing room, set around a wood-burning stove. The balconied landings above are home to a library-like hangout area with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and squashy sofas. The dine-in kitchen is pure farmhouse-style with a bright red Aga purring away and keeping things warm (but there’s an induction hob and regular oven if you don’t fancy cooking on the Aga). Should the weather turn, you’ve got a sunroom, looking out over the valley and guests here have access to an indoor swimming pool shared with other buildings on the farm.

It’s a six-minute drive into Combe Martin to stock up at the local supermarket or maybe pause in a local, cosy pub. Ten minutes sees you at the carpark for Combe Martin Beaches where folk take kayaks and paddleboards out on the water or stroll along the soft sand. Join the Southwest Coastal Trail, a ten-minute drive away to discover hidden bays and clifftop views for miles.

Old Barns

This light-filled penthouse on the shores of Saunton Sands is a spectacular home in North Devon. Just as suited to nature lovers as those seeking creature comforts, this crisp and modern apartment makes for a wonderful base.

A direct path leads from the property to the three-mile-long Saunton Sands, one of Devon’s most beloved beaches. Here you can swim or surf – the water is slightly calmer than nearby Croyde Bay, making it ideal for beginner or intermediate surfers. If you prefer to keep your feet dry, it’s a glorious part of the world for walking and horse riding – it’s at the heart of the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, after all. Braunton Burrows – a sand dune system and Biosphere reserve – is just a few minutes away from Saunton Sands. Home to a large number of rare plants and animals, it’s popular with wildlife enthusiasts. 

Back at the penthouse, take a soak in the roll-top tub then fire up the wood burner and get cosy. The views are captivating from every angle – we spent hours gazing out at the sea and sands – and sunset is an event in of itself. Curl up in a blanket on the balcony and drink in the views while tucking into a Devonshire cream tea. We’ll let you decide whether it’s the jam or cream first. 


A Penthouse on the Shore

Serene views, sleek interiors and seemingly impossible design elements come together to make an architectural feat of a home on Devon's coastline. The hosts built this home from the ground up – pulling up outside you'll immediately get the sense you're about to stay somewhere unique. And you'll get the personal touch too, as host Deborah and her family love to greet every guest on arrival. Style-wise, this home is equal parts classy and edgy; velvet upholstery and faux-fur throws contrast with neon signs and curious light fixtures in the bedrooms. The pièce de résistance is the gravity-defying fireplace in the living area, nothing short of a showstopper. You'll want to explore every room in depth to make sure you haven't missed anything. This is a level of design you might not necessarily expect from a sleepy part of coastal Devon – but that's part of the home's beauty. It's the perfect retreat for those seeking total tranquility in exceptional surroundings. 

The Early Risers

Located in the picturesque village of Harrowbarrow, with sweeping views of the Cornish countryside and Tamar Valley, this Grade II-listed building is sure to impress. Inside, it’s thoroughly up to date with a sleek white and grey colour scheme. The double-height ceilings and clever use of glass make the place feel extra spacious and bright, while a wood-burning stove adds a sense of cosiness. When the weather is on your side, spill out onto the south facing patio for sunshine all day long. After a tasty barbecue lunch, ramble through Kit Hill Country Park or take the thirty-five-minute drive down to Tregantle Beach for wind-whipped walks along the unspoilt sands. Come home in the late afternoon, salty-haired and ravenous, and dig into hearty fare at the traditional pub, just a fifteen-minute stroll from your doorstep. 

The Chaplain

Seeing is believing at this slick seafront apartment offering up one of the most dramatic views of Devon's coastline we ever did see and a direct footpath to Saunton's three miles of golden sandy beach.

On wild, wintery days, watch the tide roll in with morning coffees curled up on the modular sofa. And on balmy summer nights, open up the French Crittall doors wide for alfresco drinks on the terrace - the crashing waves and blazing sunsets are spell-bounding.

Inside, there's a sharp design focus to this uber-modern aparthotel, designed by the owner, a London-based property developer. A minimalist's dream, expect clean, uncluttered spaces with underfloor heating, marble-clad bathrooms, and high-end furnishings adding a dash of luxury. 

When it's time to hit the surf, pad out across the landscaped communal gardens and follow the footpath leading you directly to one of Britain's best surfing beaches. With a surf school on your doorstep and a handy outhouse and outdoor shower for hosing down and storing all your surf paraphernalia, this is a surfer's paradise. And it's dog and family-friendly too, so all the troops are welcome here. 

Explore pretty nearby coastal spots like Croyde (seven-minute drive) and Woolacombe (eighteen-minute drive). And there's a thriving foodie scene to keep you well watered and fed – from Michelin-starred restaurants to good old-fashioned fish and chips – it's got it all going on.

Everything is Beachy

Just a short walk from Westward Ho! beach, and with private access to Northam Burrows Country Park, this home is made for embracing the outdoors. Boasting an upside-down layout, you’ll find the living area on the upper floor of this coastal home – ideal for making the most of the countryside and distant sea views. With a cosy garden and balcony, alfresco dining is a must in warmer months. There's also a private hot tub for pure relaxation. That said, with hikes on your doorstep, the Royal North Devon Golf Club next door, and a blue flag beach that’s a haven for surfers, windsurfers, kayakers, and dog walkers, getting out and about locally is a must. 

Spirit of Nature

With sixteen acres to play with, this estate in North Devon houses a number of cottages, of which this beautifully rustic and comfortable home is one. Wander the gardens, meadows and orchards, taking care not to stroll into a stream or one of the ponds. Walk up to ‘The Lookout’, a pinnacle from where the deep green of the countryside is laid out for you to admire. After a refreshing morning walk – if you’re furry friend’s tagging along, you’ll have five acres of dog walking field at your disposal – stop off at home for a warm drink. Kindle a fire in the lounge and sink back in the velvet sofa, grateful for little things like the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the crackle of burning wood. 

With views of the beautiful garden on offer from the patio, you’ll likely find your way into the private hot tub at some point – spend as long as you need until you’ve let go of all tension, but don’t forget to make it in time for feeding time. With over fifty types of animals, including pygmy goats and hand-reared lambs, you’re not going to want to miss it. 

The estate also has an extensive kitchen garden and greenhouse open to their guests. Pick something to use in an alfresco lunch or when you’re trying something new for dinner, or simply get a private chef in to do all the cooking for you. After a long day, watch the sun dip below the horizon from your sunlounger before grabbing a packet of marshmallows from the honesty shop and heading to the shared fire pit. Roast marshmallows, stargaze, and meet new friends around the dancing flames and when the day’s activities catch up with you, duck out to retreat to the comfort of the plush double bed – but not without indulging in a steaming bubble bath.

Georgian House

If you're ready to escape into nature's embrace, then this charming lodge nestled in the heart of Devon’s green countryside is an ideal choice for you. This minimalist affair, with lovely views in every direction, is a great refuge for a few days of rest and relaxation –  especially since it's equipped with a big hot tub outside.

When you're not soaking in it and admiring the scenery, the countryside paths will take you deeper into pristine nature where you can breathe in the healthy countryside air. When you've had your fill, return to your holiday escape for a nice cup of hot cocoa on the luxurious sofa and an evening of movies to be enjoyed on the big flat-screen TV. Fall sleep with ease and wake up refreshed and rested, with the country vistas helping you to welcome a new day. 

Even though there are lots of lovely places to eat in the neighbouring towns, you can just as easily opt for staying in and cooking for yourself — there's plenty of tasty local produce available in the village, and the well-equipped kitchen will make rustling up something delicious a breeze. 


Our Cup of Tea

Only minutes away from the Royal North Devon Golf Club, this home – coincidentally built by the same designer in 1865 – is the perfect option for large groups looking to explore the Devon coastline. 

And as much as this is a haven for golfing enthusiasts, it’s also the ideal location for beach lovers who get to spend sun-drenched days on Westward Ho! Beach. You can see those very shores from the perched hot tub in the backyard. Ease yourself into the warm water with a glass of wine and enjoy the views as you relax after a day of activity. 

Inside, find plush furnishings in muted greys, greens, and blues that come alive in the natural light of the large windows. There’s an understated elegance that works beautifully alongside the modern and homely elements of this home. You can probably see yourself at the kitchen counter, enjoying a cup of coffee as you wait for the rest of the group to join you at the dining table for breakfast. 

We recommend at least one long, luxurious bubble bath in the clawfoot bath, and why not savour a glass of Prosecco as you take in the views from the small window right next to the tub?

Midnight Velvet

This characterful cottage will provide the perfect backdrop for an idyllic Devon break. Set in the heart of West Buckland, the home features classic cottage decor, such as a wood burner fireplace and solid wooden furniture, together with modern amenities that make staying here totally effortless. It’s also the ideal holiday home for furry friends, with a stair gate, dog crates and a large, fully-fenced garden where pups can run wild. There are fields and forests aplenty on one side of the home, with the heart of the village on the other, making this the ideal cottage for an idyllic countryside stay.

You can cook up a hearty full English breakfast in the stylish kitchen, and dine together around your quaint table and chairs. Sip on your Nespresso coffee out in the garden while you listen to the dawn chorus. Head out on one of the many country hikes that are right on your doorstep, and find a friendly pub to stop in for a pint. In sunnier months, make the drive to some of Devon’s most beautiful beaches to enjoy sea swimming and sunbathing. In the evenings, light your wood burner fireplace and curl up on the sofa with a movie and a hot chocolate.

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