Excellent Padstow Escape

This charming contemporary cottage with a lovely view of the Camel Estuary is less than a mile from the harbour in picturesque Padstow. Sleeping four guests, along with two canine companions, it offers an ideal base for exploring North Cornwall's glorious beaches and coastal scenery. The holiday home is attractively furnished and is set in a quiet location, overlooking a shared garden. Historic Padstow has shops, pubs and fine seafood restaurants, while golden sandy beaches are all within a few miles.

This pretty, end-of-terrace property, with traditional slate and stone features, is stylishly furnished in neutral tones. The spacious lounge has comfortable seating, and a bright conservatory houses the dining area. Completing the ground floor is the country-style kitchen with its wooden furnishings, and a cloakroom. Upstairs, there is a family shower room and two restful bedrooms: a king-size with beautiful estuary views, and a twin. Outside, the cottage has a pretty paved patio to the front with palm trees and outdoor furniture. To the rear is an enclosed patio with garden furniture.

Padstow is full of character, with narrow streets leading down to the waterside and brightly painted fishing boats in the busy working harbour. For an offshore view of the spectacular coastline, climb aboard the veteran Jubilee Queen (pets are welcome) for a marine adventure and the chance of seeing sunbathing seals and inquisitive dolphins. The town's excellent small museum and Prideaux Place, a beautiful Elizabethan manor house are well worth a visit. Catch the ferry across the estuary to Rock, where a water sports school will teach you how to surf the waves and much more. Classic sand and surf beaches open to dogs throughout the year include Harlyn Bay, Constantine Bay (both 3 miles), and Treyarnon Bay (4 miles).