To the coast

As if 5000 acres wasn’t enough to explore, Pointy’s sat in a nine-acre field, just a five-minute walk from the private Pamflete Beach (so private, it’s not even marked on a map). Wander the sand, take to the water for a wild swim, or on a paddleboard and enjoy the water to yourself.

Right on the waterfront, overlooking the Kingsbridge Ria, Bowcombe Boathouse is the perfect retreat to watch life float by. But if you’re feeling like getting out of the house (or cabin), then make use of the kayaks left for you, and paddle upriver to Kingsbridge for adventure.

Set into the unique waterways around Mersea Island, Samphire’s a clear winner for the seafaring. You’ve basically the estuary to yourself, to take to the water on the kayaks provided, and just enjoy the fresh air, the slow bob of the tide, and the knowledge that sunset’s going to be spectacular.

There’s no exaggeration when we say, ‘on the beach’. Not even slightly. Ignoring everything else there is to do, you could simply while away the hours watching the weather. Sunrises, sunsets, storms or clear skies – it doesn’t matter. Lie back and watch your stress float off to the horizon.

With the sofas pointing out towards the massive floor to ceiling windows that look out on the river, this is people watching taken to the next level. Things will move past, boats, people, the arc of the sun, time – it doesn’t matter. You’re in the right spot. Just add wine.

It comes as no surprise to learn that the site’s previous owner, a doctor, used to bring his patients to the area for convalescence. With views of the cliffs below, and as far as the eye can see into the horizon, you might just forget the freestanding bathtub, the sauna or the hot tub. But it’s not likely.

You’ll find Oyster with the tide lapping at her hull, as she lets it ebb and flow gently by. Moored in a creek on the Salcombe Estuary, she’s set up in a clearing, where the trees bow over the turquoise waters, and two deckchairs line the bank for a lazy afternoon tipple.

Somehow, there’s the best of every wild world at this space. A cabin, backed by towering pine woodland, and a nearby coastal path, you’ve got all the greatest hits on tap. You get sea views from the king-size bed just by lifting your head, and even on the leather sofa by the wood burner downstairs.

Overlooking the Celtic Sea and Mount’s Bay, a vision of blue stretching into the horizon, visible from the kitchen, sitting room and the circular window in the gallery room upstairs – this space does sea views like no other. Spend a day on the surf and a night under the stars by the firepit.

So close to the sea, you could feel surf spray on your face from the garden – Hive Beach House is as incredible as it looks. There’s no chance you won’t be exploring here, enjoying the beach, walking, basking in the sea air in the garden, but Hive Beach House itself will fight for your attention…

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