Bonchurch Holiday Retreat

Embrace island life with a self-catering stay at this fabulous single-storey apartment. Just a few steps from the garden you'll get gorgeous views across the English Channel; stroll along the esplanade to Wheelers Bay for a closer look as the waves lap against the sea wall. At Bonchurch Beach, low tide reveals a sand and shingle beach best-known for its rock pools; inland the local inn serves tasty meals, many with an Italian influence. You'll find an appetite-whetting selection of seafront restaurants and a vibrant town centre with artisan cafes, antiques emporiums and boutiques at Ventnor, just over a mile away. Must-see sites nearby include Ventnor Botanic Garden and, further west, Blackgang Chine (7 miles) – the UK's oldest family theme park. Stretch your legs with a coastal path walk eastwards and you'll pass through rural hamlet Luccombe en route to the larger resort of Shanklin (4.5 miles). The historic Old Village is home to thatched cottages, tea rooms and unique shops, while Shanklin Chine is a lush gorge with waterfalls and rare plants that are beautifully illuminated in the evenings.

One of a small cluster of coastal retreats set amid a landscape of rolling hills, this ground floor apartment has at its heart a sunny and spacious open-plan social area. High-end furnishings, sleek fixtures and tasteful decor provide a warm welcome as you unwind, while two sets of fully-glazed patio doors allow natural light and fresh air to flow in. Stretch out on the sofa to watch TV, cook up a treat in the state-of-the-art kitchen and enjoy lively conversation as you gather around the elegant dining table – this really is a room for all reasons! When it's time to retire, the two bedrooms here are comfortable and contemporary. The master features a king-size bed and an en-suite shower, while the second ensures flexibility for any group of guests, with a king-size zip-and-link bed that can be converted to twins on request, plus a set of bunk beds suitable for 2 children. A chic family bathroom completes the convenience for all.

Park outside the property and unpack at your own pace – on the other side of the apartment, the patio doors lead into a garden with privacy panels and ranch-style fencing. The patio has sun loungers and other outdoor furniture; beyond, steps allow easy passage across the sloped lawn so you can take in the far-reaching sea views. Other apartments can be booked if you'd like to holiday with a larger group of friends or family – please ask for details.