Wonderful Braunton Retreat

Braunton’s vibrant village centre may be just half a mile away, but this high-end holiday home for couples is a haven of calm. The village – reputedly the largest in Britain – is home to an enticing selection of shops, restaurants, cafes and bars; work up an appetite with a walk or cycle ride along the Tarka Trail or South West Coast Path, both of which run through Braunton. Visit the Museum of British Surfing before taking to the waters yourself; Saunton Sands (3 miles) and Croyde Bay (5 miles) are popular with boarders, while the marvellous stretch of sand at Woolacombe (6 miles) is perfect for shoreline walks, swimming and other water sports. If wildlife spotting is on your to-do list, head to Braunton Burrows (4 miles) – it’s one of the largest sand dune systems in the British Isles and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Attention to detail is evident everywhere at this elegant garden apartment which is accessed via steps and a sloping path, hence those views from the elevated position of the property. Attached to the owner’s home but completely autonomous, it sits on a hillside on the eastern edge of Braunton with expansive views towards the coast. A welcoming hallway separates the two main elements of the property. To one side, the open-plan living room features a comfortable corner sofa and additional armchair, plus a Smart TV and dining table. Stealing the scene are bi-fold doors which offer direct access to the outdoor area and deliver fabulous views from every angle. Adjacent to the living room, the kitchen is chic and contains all the easy-living essentials. When it’s time to sleep, step through the hallway and you’ll enter a dreamy bedroom with a double bed. A sleek en-suite bathroom ensures all the comfort of home. There is also a standalone WC off the hallway.

A well-tended lawn and large patio connect seamlessly to your indoor space courtesy of the bi-fold doors to the front of the living room. Soak up the sun as you stretch out on a lounger, or enjoy al fresco food and drinks from the outdoor dining suite – the seaward views are fabulous. There’s private parking for one car too, so you can explore Braunton at your leisure.