Sandridge Boathouse, Stoke Gabriel

Devon. Sleeps up to 4

About 1¼ miles from Stoke Gabriel, on the Sandridge Barton estate, this perfect little boathouse was built in 1760 as a bathing house. It sits in one of the most secluded, private and romantic settings in south Devon where the Dart meanders between Stoke Gabriel and Dittisham. A haven from almost everything, the Boathouse is accessed by walking 600 yards through a gentle valley and woods. You and your luggage will be transferred by Landrover to the top of the 71 steps leading down to the house. Inside is extremely beautiful and comfortable, water reflects gently on the ceiling of the lovely, large, oak-floored living space. Floor-to-ceiling French windows stretching the width of the boathouse fold back on themselves, opening the room to the balcony and river scene beyond. Up on the first floor are two bedrooms, both with beams and lofty ceilings to the apex - one with a super king size double bed, en suite bathroom and French windows to a small balcony; and a pretty twin. Right on the water's edge, The Boathouse is surrounded by a wide, covered balcony with a table and chairs - this might be the best place in Devon for al fresco dining, with thick woods behind. If you can bear to leave, there is lots to see and do nearby; the village of Stoke Gabriel is well situated, with three pubs, shops and a restaurant, and slopes down to a little quay - good for crabbing! There are sandy beaches at Torbay, and the quirky town of Totnes is just four miles away, or you can take a ferry to Dartmouth, or visit the National Trust's Greenway and Coleton Fishacre. No matter what you decide, you're assured of an unforgettable holiday at this unique and magical place.