Escape to the North Devon coast with a stay at this welcoming timber chalet, with space for one or two (plus the dog). It’s in the lovely village of Instow, where the river meets the sea, and just 25 metres from the beach and calm estuary waters. Spend your days sipping coffee at waterfront cafés, enjoying a drink in one of the traditional pubs and perhaps hopping on the little ferry across to Appledore (10 minutes by ferry, 6 miles by road) during summer.
Inside, the chalet is spacious and full of light, with a vaulted ceiling that opens up the living space and showcases fantastic views of beach and countryside. The decor is artistic and homely, with thoughtful details like ceramics, books and a vibrant rug. Relax in the comfy lounge area complete with a wood burner and Smart TV and cook up holiday feasts in the neat kitchen and dining space. The calming double bedroom has an en-suite shower room and there’s also a separate bathroom with a bath for leisurely evening soaks. Outside, enjoy al fresco meals at the table and chairs provided or pack up a picnic to eat on the beach just steps away, watching boats glide across the estuary.
It’s easy to fill your days in and around Instow – the gentle estuary is ideal for water sports like kayaking, canoeing and kite surfing, while the scenic Tarka Trail – which runs through the village – is a treat for both walkers and cyclists. Appledore is home to the North Devon Maritime Museum which history fans will love. Boat trips along the River Torridge are a peaceful way to take in the area, while the sweeping sands at Westward Ho! await just under 5 miles away.