Stay: Bowcombe Boathouse

From roasting summer days to stormier tides, we love that the coastline of Devon can be enjoyed all year round. Snuggle under the blanket while you soak up the meditative sounds of the sea or slip into your swimwear for a dip. Relish in freedom as you pause to notice the small things in life: the heather-carpeted coastal walks, rugged cliff tops, sunset surfs and wind-swept hair.

Allow your Canopy and Stars wish lists to become your reality with the Bowcombe Boathouse. Set overlooking the every-changing estuary in Kingsbridge, in the South Hams district of Devon, the boathouse offers a waterside retreat with its very own gin bar. Akin to your own home, the space is filled with the owner’s artefacts and was restored with love from a former old storage shed. With intricate interior design, the space has been renovated with boat-builder’s materials such as daring dark teak and aged brass.

Hungry from your travels? Arranged around a mahogany island, the kitchen offers everything you need to hunker-down and cook up a feast. After this, you can make your way across the room to the window seat, light up the wood burner and kick back as you watch the twinkling boat lights from afar. Think local cheeses, glasses full to the brim with gin cocktails, an engrossing novel and a roaring fire. If you choose to visit in the summer, unlike us, then head onto the balcony instead to soak up the waterfront nature and al fresco dining opportunities. As dusk sweeps in, head upstairs to the double bedroom where you’ll find a beautiful bath to soak the night away.

If weather is on your side and you don’t fancy cooking, take advantage of the kayaks and take the short paddle around to Kingsbridge and Salcombe, where you can find plenty of restaurants and even a farmer’s market. If conditions allow, embark on a wild swim or take advantage of the well renowned hiking paths on your doorstep. Off-grid indulgence is calling.