Luxurious Holiday Cottages with Amazing Views

Room with a View

Room with a View

When choosing a luxurious holiday cottage you may be looking for 5 star standards and that something added extra. For some people, a cottage having a relaxing feature such a hot tub makes a property truly appealing whereas for others it’s all about the views.

Staying in a holiday home with an impressive view to marvel at can really help make your holiday that bit extra special. So here’s some of our top picks of Luxurious Cottages with Views.

 

Fabulous Cottages with Waterside Views

If you love to be by the water, then feast your eyes on one of these luxurious holiday homes with either a waterside location or waterside views. From holiday lodges next to lodges to cottages by the seaside, there is something soothing and extra special about those holiday homes with sea, lake or river views.

 

For Holidays by the Lakeside:

Badwell Ash Lakeside Lodges Suffolk

Badwell Ash Luxury Lodges in Suffolk with Lakeside Views and Private Hot Tubs

 

 

 

 

 

Filham Country House in Devon

This impressive 6 bedroom country house sits within beautiful gardens which include a lake.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Four Ashes by the Waterside in Pembrokeshire

Soak up stunning waterside views with a stay at 6 bedroom Four Ashes in Pembrokeshire.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For Holidays by the Seaside:

Admiral's House with Sea Views along the Pembrokeshire Coast

Look out to sea like a Captain at Admiral’s House on the Pembrokeshire Coast

 

 

 

The Sands Luxury Seaside Apartments Scarborough

Stunning sea views at the seaview apartments at the Sands by Scarborough’s North Bay Beach

 

Find more wonderful luxurious holiday homes with sea views.

Luxury Holiday Homes with Amazing Countryside or Mountain Views

Whilst some love to stay by the seaside, others love the wildlife and serene feel of the countryside. What could be better than a luxury country holiday where you can also marvel at amazing countryside or mountain views? The following country holiday homes are some of the very best for views that will make you go wow!

Axen Lodge in Dorset with Countryside Views

Dreamy Views of Rolling Countryside at Axen Lodge in Beautiful Dorset.

 

Wans Barton with Dorset Countryside Views

Unique High Quality Wans Barton Barn Conversion set in Stunning Dorset Countryside

 

 

Mountain Views at Caban Y Berwyn

Marvellous Moutain Valley Views at Caban Y Berwyn

 

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Top Places for Luxury Christmas Holidays

A cottage break could be the perfect Christmas present.

A cottage break could be the perfect Christmas present.

The festive season is nearly upon us so it is time to start thinking about where you should take your partner or family for a special Christmas holiday. Save some money this year by avoiding expensive hotel costs abroad and staying in a luxury cottage in the UK. Here is a list of our favourite Christmas cottage destinations:

1.    Yorkshire

Yorkshire is simply beautiful all year round but it looks truly magical on cold winter nights. Visit the historic city of York and be sure to check out the enormous Christmas tree that is put up every year in St Helen’s Square. There is also a Christmas market that will start this year on the 27th of December and is full of some fantastic Victorian stalls where you can buy some traditional gifts for your friends and family back home. Outside of the city of York, the Yorkshire Dales are perfect for long romantic strolls with your partner as you try and work off all the wonderful food you have indulged in at the market! Have a look at our selection of luxury cottages in Yorkshire and get ready for a Christmas getaway of a lifetime.

2.    Lincolnshire

Home to a truly ‘English’ Christmas market, Lincoln in Lincolnshire is the perfect place to experience a traditional Christmas. The city is home to Lincoln Cathedral and Norman Castle, both of which add a real historical feeling to this urban, bustling city. Keep yourself warm in the city’s medieval square by drinking some delicious mulled wine and tasting some of the delicious local delicacy. This year the Christmas market will run from the 4th until the 7th of December so find a luxury cottage in Lincolnshire now and look forward to going on romantic strolls down Lincoln’s cobbled streets. If you fancy a day out of the city, then why not head down to the Lincolnshire Fens and enjoy some relaxing walks across the county’s stunning landscape. The Fens’ waterways look truly spectacular when frozen over in the winter months.

3.    London

Xmas lights at Covent Garden, London

Xmas lights at Covent Garden, London

No Christmas list would be complete without mentioning the nations capital. London comes alive in the festive season when you can go ice-skating in one of the city’s many rinks or simply visit Hyde Park’s famous Winter Wonderland. Your kids are sure to love visiting the many attractions on offer at the wonderland such as the ice kingdom and the Christmas circus. Couples need not feel left out in London, as a romantic stroll down Oxford Street is sure to get you into the festive spirit. Try and get tickets for the Nut Cracker ballet at the Royal Opera House if you can and treat your partner to a classic Christmas tradition. Check out our selection of cottages in the south east of England and get the best of both worlds; travel into London whenever you want and then enjoy a night’s sleep in the peaceful English countryside.

4.    Edinburgh

Historical Edinburgh Castle

Historical Edinburgh Castle

The only destination outside of England on our list, Edinburgh can simply not be ignored when it comes to a Christmas holiday. The city’s Christmas celebrations start as early as the 21st of November and last until the 4th of January next year so you have plenty of time to enjoy what Edinburgh has to offer at this festive time of year. Among the many attractions is the Edinburgh Eye, which will allow you to see the city’s dramatic architecture and landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle from above. There is also an ice-rink and a market so you can be sure that there will always be things for the whole family to see and enjoy. If you fancy staying for a bit longer (and let’s face it, who wouldn’t?), then you will be able to join in the world-famous Hogmanay celebrations that take place on New Year’s Eve. With so much going on at this wonderful time of year, what are you waiting for? Find your dream holiday home in Edinburgh and treat your family to a holiday of a lifetime.

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Unique and Quirky Luxury Breaks

A luxury self-catered cottage break is a great way of treating yourself but why not make your stay all the more memorable by renting a unique and quirky property that is packed full of character and charm? Staying somewhere like a converted windmill or a tree house is ideal for those with children while a cosy yet luxurious Shepherd’s Hut is simply perfect for a romantic weekend away with your partner.

Here are just a few of the unique and quirky luxurious properties available to rent at Luxury-SelfCatering-Accommodation.co.uk:

The Watermill- Luxurious 5 star rated Holiday Home in East Anglia

Luxurious Holiday Watermill

Luxurious Holiday Watermill

This self-catered watermill is located on its very own private island and is surrounded by gardens, a river and an orchard. With 5 bedrooms and a fantastic selection of outdoor activities such as canoeing, biking and fishing available to visitors, The Watermill is a great place to spend a family gathering or a reunion with friends. A 5 star rating will ensure that your stay is luxurious while the fact that the property is Grade II listed means that The Watermill has retained its historic character and charm. Enjoy a wonderful stay at this rustic Suffolk location and look forward to an unforgettable holiday at The Watermill.

The Mill, Braunston- Luxury Self-Catering Accommodation for 6

Holiday Windmill with stunning luxurious interior

Holiday Windmill with stunning luxurious interior

The Mill is a windmill in Braunston, Warwickshire that has been converted into a truly luxurious self-catered cottage. The views from the top of this six-storey watermill are absolutely breathtaking, as you will be able to look over the nearby market town of Rugby, the place often credited as the birthplace of the town’s sporting namesake. 3 bedrooms comfortably sleeping up to 6 guests means that this unique property is perfect for a small family looking for a different kind of holiday in the heart of the UK. Experience true luxury in the windmill’s very own 6-seater hot tub that is just one example of the spectacular amenities on offer during your stay in Braunston. Find out more about The Mill here and take your family somewhere special this winter.

The Shepherd’s Hut, Leighton, Heart of England- An Unusual Luxury Accommodation

Shepherd's Hut Holiday Home

Shepherd’s Hut Holiday Home

For a romantic getaway like no other, look no further than the unique Shepherd’s Hut in Leighton, Shropshire. This quaint self-catered property sleeps two and is ideal for those who want a camping-like experience but are not too keen on staying in a tent in the middle of nowhere. The Shepherd’s Hut is located on a working cattle farm and benefits from a barn conversion just a few yards away, where you can use the kitchen with a dining area and the shower room with a toilet. Explore the surrounding Shropshire Hills and rural beauty before returning to your romantic retreat and cosying up to your partner for a night in the beautiful Shropshire countryside. Have a look at some more photos of The Shepherd’s Hut and enjoy a rustic holiday with a luxury touch.

The Treehouse at West Hayes – Luxury Retreat

Treehouse, a unique luxury self-catering property.

Treehouse, a unique luxury self-catering property.

Those with kids will know that it is a child’s dream to be able to stay in a tree house. This two bedroom luxury tree house in Halse, Somerset is fantastic for children and adults alike, as the young ones will simply love staying with their parents amongst the trees while adults will adore the luxurious touches on offer such as a stylish kitchen and an outdoor hot tub. Exploring the great outdoors is the best way of enjoying your time in Somerset but fret not if the weather takes a nasty turn, as there is also access to an indoor swimming pool that is sure to keep your kids entertained all day. With under floor heating and a luxurious wood-burning stove, The Treehouse is a wonderful place to stay all year round.

Check out all of our unique yet luxurious self-catered properties and treat your family and friends to a break that they will be talking about for years to come. They are sure to love their stay in one of these quirky and unusual luxury cottages.

For even more choice take a look at these inspirational unique luxury cottages.

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Some of the UKs Best Country Houses

The popularity of the TV show ‘Downton Abbey’ has seen an increase in the country’s interest in stately homes. Places such as Chatsworth House in Derbyshire and Castle Howard in Yorkshire attract thousands of visitors each year and are fantastic places to visit on your luxury cottage holiday. Here is our list of the very best country houses in the UK:

1. Highclere Castle, Hampshire

What better place to start than the very country house that is used as the main setting for ‘Downton Abbey’? Home to stunning gardens, an Egyptian Exhibition and 1000-acre estates, the castle is now open to the public and can be enjoyed by those of all ages. See for yourself the Drawing Room and other locations from the show and enjoy your very own behind the scenes look at the home of ‘Downton Abbey’. Have a look at our selection of luxury accommodation in Hampshire and look forward to feeling like Lord Grantham himself.

 

2. Chatsworth House, Derbyshire

Chatsworth House Derbyshire

Chatsworth House in Derbyshire

Chatsworth House is a stately home in Derbyshire which lies close to the River Derwent and within 1000-acres of parkland. Consistently voted as England’s best country house, Chatsworth has been owned by the Cavendish family since 1549 and is the seat of the Duke of Devonshire. Visitors are attracted to the house’s incredible antiques and artwork that has been built up over the last five centuries and has resulted in one of Europe’s finest private collections. Find your dream luxury cottage in Derbyshire and also enjoy exploring the nearby Peak District National Park.

 

3. Longleat House, Wiltshire

Deer watching at Longleat Safari Park

Deer can be spotted at Longleat

Home to a safari park, a maze and 900-acres of parkland, Longleat House in Wiltshire is a fantastic place for all the family to visit. Completed in 1580, the house is a fantastic example of high Elizabethan architecture and is currently the home of the 7th Marquess of Bath.  Explore the many rooms in the house that are open to guests and don’t forget to see the lions, monkeys and rhinos in the safari park. Treat yourself and rent a luxury cottage in Wiltshire for the entire family. They are sure to love their visit to the Cotswolds.

 

4. Castle Howard, Yorkshire

Famous for being used in the 1981 television version of Brideshead Revisited, Castle Howard in Yorkshire took more than 100 years to build and once covered 13,000-acres. The house is the historic seat of the Earls of Carlisle and the public can explore many of Castle Howard’s 145 rooms. There are also gardens and an adventure playground, perfect for relaxing in during the summer months.  Browse through our selection of luxury accommodation in Yorkshire and find somewhere special for you and your family to stay.

 

5. Mellerstain House, Scotland

The only country house on our list that is outside of England, Mellerstain House in the Scottish Borders was designed by Robert Adam and is the setting of many couples’ special days. Built in 1778, the house is full of fascinating history and has been open to the public for the last 50 years. Come along and see some of the amazing artwork that has been collected over the years and visit the gardens, home to a children’s play area and both lakeside and woodland walks. You may not be able to stay in the country house itself but fret not as we have some fantastic accommodation in the Scottish Borders that is just as luxurious.

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Top Destinations for a Luxurious Self-Catering Holiday in Ireland

Ireland is a country which is famed for its beauty and luscious green countryside that led to it being poetically referred to as the ‘Emerald Isle’. The country is also of course famous for it’s capital city Dublin, home of the delicious beer Guinness and a plethora of historical landmarks such as Dublin Castle and Trinity College. If you stay in a luxury self-catered cottage in the east of Ireland, you will have the best of both worlds, as you can relax in the the peaceful countryside in the day and then venture into the vibrant city of Dublin in the night. Be sure to spend at least one evening in one of Dublin’s fantastic pubs where you can chat to the locals and enjoy some of the local cuisine.

County Galway, Ireland

County Galway, Ireland

Further to the west of Ireland is the city of Galway, known for its festivals and for being the country’s ‘Cultural Capital’. There is always something going on in Galway and you can also use it as a base for exploring the rest of West Ireland. The stunning Aran Islands are reachable by ferry from Galway and they are home to some of the world’s most beautiful scenery. Rent a bike or simply walk around the islands and discover the sights on offer in this beautiful part of the country. Have a look at our range of luxury self-catered cottages in Galway and enjoy a holiday full of beauty and excitement.

Blarney Castle

Blarney Castle

Head further south and you will find yourself in the counties of Cork and Kerry, home to the popular Ring of Kerry and Blarney Castle. County Kerry is visited for its natural beauty and the Ring of Kerry is the best way of seeing all the best sights. Cycle clockwise around the ring if you want to take your time exploring the area or go on one of the many tour buses and get a detailed explanation of everything that you see. Blarney Castle can be found in the village of Blarney in County Cork and is famous for the Blarney Stone, which supposedly gives those who kiss it the ‘gift of the gab’. The surrounding areas of the castle are truly stunning so it is definitely worth a visit, even if you are not interested in giving the stone a kiss!

County Kilkenny

County Kilkenny

To the east of Cork and Kerry are the counties of Waterford and Kilkenny. Waterford is home to the Waterford Crystal Factory where you can see where the famous crystal was made and you can then take in your glorious surroundings by hiking in the Comeragh Mountains. With hikes suitable to both beginners and experienced hikers, the mountains provide a picturesque view of southeast Ireland. County Kilkenny is also home to some stunning countryside and its capital city is where you will find the Cat Laughs Comedy Festival, which is held annually in June.

Have a look at our selection of luxury self-catering accommodation in Ireland and enjoy a spectacular holiday on the Emerald Isle. There really is nowhere more beautiful.

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Bath- A city full of luxury

The Roman Baths in Bath

The Roman Baths in Bath

Famous for its spas and Roman connection, Bath is a wonderful place to enjoy a luxury cottage holiday. Spend your days exploring this diverse city and look forward to nights out in exciting restaurants and bars, or living the life of luxury in your self-catered cottage. The city has so much to do and so much going on that you are sure to never get bored when holidaying in Bath.

The Roman Baths are a must-visit attraction when holidaying in Bath. The city became a spa in AD 60 and the Romans built baths and a temple in the valley of the River Avon. Bath then became popular as a spa town during the Georgian era and much of the architecture from that time still remains today. Treat your partner to a romantic tour and dinner by the Baths at nighttime or teach your family more about the city’s Roman history by taking your children on an audio tour. There is something for everyone at the city’s Roman Baths.

The Royal Crescent is truly a sight to behold. A row of 30 terraced houses that make a crescent close to the Royal Victoria Park in the city, the Royal Crescent is one of the greatest examples of Georgian architecture in the entire United Kingdom and was built some time in the late 18th century. Many notable people have lived in or stayed at one of the houses down the years and the Royal Crescent now includes a hotel and a museum where you can learn more about the history of this fascinating structure. Why not take a hot air balloon ride from the nearby Royal Victoria Park and see the crescent and the entire city of Bath from the best view possible.

Other luxurious places to visit in Bath include the majestic Bath Abbey, which was first founded in the 7th century. This Grade I listed building is one of the largest examples of Perpendicular Gothic architecture in the south-east of England and features a truly magnificent interior that must be seen to be believed. Catch a show at the Theatre Royal, which offers all different types of productions including comedy, opera and an additional theatre specifically for children and families to enjoy in the day. The best way to discover everything on offer in the city of Bath is to either rent a bike and go exploring on your own or to go on a sightseeing bus and be taken to all the best sights of the city.

Have a look at our selection of luxury self-catered accommodation in Bath and look forward to holiday as luxurious as your accommodation. Having such an extravagant cottage or country house to return to after a day of exploring the city is such a wonderful feeling. You can put your feet up in true style and enjoy all the additional features that come with a luxury accommodation.

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Luxury Accomodation and Beautiful National Parks- The Perfect Mix

The UK is home to some of the world’s most beautiful National Parks. Places like the Lake District in Cumbria, the Brecon Beacons in South Wales and the Cairngorms National Park in north-east Scotland offer up all kinds of different activities, from leisurely strolls and gentle bike rides to kayaking and windsurfing. However, you can do these kinds of activities all over the world and it is the quintessentially British countryside and landscape that makes the National Parks so special and unique. Going for a walk or cycling through a British National Park and seeing the spectacular sights and views on offer is simply a wonderful feeling.

To make your trip to a National Park even more memorable, stay in a luxury holiday cottage and have somewhere truly amazing to return to after a long day of exploring and discovering. You are sure to be exhausted at the end of the day, especially if you have been partaking in any extreme sports, and there is no better feeling than relaxing in a top quality accommodation.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park

In England there are a total of 10 National Parks, including the Peak District to the north of the country, Exmoor and Dartmoor in the south-west and the South Downs in the east. The fact that all of the National Parks are located throughout the country means that, no matter where you are, you are not far away from somewhere like the Yorkshire Dales or the New Forest. The National Parks may be quintessentially British but they are also very different from one another. You will find historical structures such as part of Hadrian’s Wall at Northumberland National Park whereas the Lake District is famous for its associations with the work of 19th century poets such as William Wordsworth. You are guaranteed a unique experience wherever you choose to visit so have a look at our selection of luxury accommodation located in an English National Park and find the self-catered property of your dreams.

Brecon Beacons National Park

Brecon Beacons National Park

With three National Parks, the Brecon Beacons in the south, Snowdonia in the north and the Pembrokeshire Coast in the west, Wales does well when it comes to National Parks, especially considering that it is such a small country. In fact, 20% of Wales is made up of National Parks and that is what makes it such a beautiful country to visit. The Brecon Beacons National Park is a mountain range that includes the highest mountain in South Wales, Pen y Fan. Snowdonia is similar, as it is also made up of a mountain range including Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales and known for its rare flora and fauna. The Pembrokeshire Coast differs greatly from Wales’ other two National Parks, as it was designated as a National Park due to its spectacular coastline. The beaches that can be found within the Park are some of the most beautiful beaches in the entire world and, in 2011, the National Geographic magazine voted Pembrokeshire as the second best coastal destination in the world. The beauty of Wales’ National Parks simply cannot be ignored so have a look at our selection of luxury self-catered accommodation located in one of the Welsh National Parks and look forward to a holiday like no other.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park

Last but certainly not least, Scotland is home to National Parks at both Cairngorms, in the eastern Highlands, and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, a National Park centered around Loch Lomond and including several ranges of hills, the Trossachs being the most well known. Cairngorms National Park is the largest National Park in Britain and is where you will find a range of mountains, native forests and clean rivers and lochs. The lush green scenery makes for the perfect landscape for walking and you are sure to get some fantastic snaps along the way. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs is similar to the Cairngorms but the loch in the middle of the National Park is what makes it a special place to visit. Gazing out across the loch at the surrounding mountainous areas is something that you could do for hours and never get bored. Find somewhere beautiful and luxurious to stay in one of these two tremendous National Parks in Scotland and enjoy an adventure that you will never forget.

Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond

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Party Houses with the Wow Factor

Looking for somewhere to hold the grandest of all grand occasions? Somewhere special that all your guests will remember forever? What you need is a party house that has the ‘wow factor’; a self-catered accommodation that will make everyone simply stare in awe when they first arrive and immediately miss when they have to leave.

Here are four party houses that are truly special places to stay:

Chelwood Luxury House

Chelwood Luxury House

Chelwood Luxury House

This Grade II listed, 17th century  country house is a great place to host a special occasion. Sleeping up to 27 people, the house can accommodate anything from a family gathering to hen/stag party, just a few miles away from the spa city of Bath. What makes this property truly special is its function room, which is huge at 6m by 9m in size. The function room can be converted into a classical dining room seating up to 30 diners or you can party the night away with a dance floor and karaoke possible in the space. Table tennis, table football and board games are also available for those wanting somewhere to relax and play some games with friends and family. With 1.3 acres of gardens, you can arrange for outdoor games like a rodeo bull, an inflatable obstacle course or a surf simulator to be erected on the lawns at Chelwood Luxury House.

The Ash Barton Estate

The Ash Barton Estate

The Ash Barton Estate

Set within a massive 25 acres of grounds, the Ash Barton Estate is a luxury manor house that has its own games barn and indoor swimming pool. Located in the town of Braunton in Devon, this luxury accommodation has 11/13 bedrooms and is even licensed for weddings. However, the games room is really the standout feature of the Ash Barton Estate. With a capacity of 200 people, you can hold the grandest of parties in the room and all kinds of themes can be accommodated. A full size snooker and pool table are available along with table football and air hockey, while table tennis, badminton, basketball and trampolining can also be set up in the games room. The manor house’s stunning garden is perfect for relaxing in the summer sun with a BBQ, garden furniture and an outdoor fire pit making the Ash Barton Estate a fantastic place to stay during the warmer months.

Lemore Manor

Lemore Manor

Lemore Manor

This luxurious manor house in Herefordshire has 19 stunning bedrooms and dining facilities for up to 60 guests. Set within 11 acres of grounds for various sport and entertainment activities, Lemore Manor also has a hot tub and a movie room making it a luxury property that has a bit of something for everyone. The games room comes with a table tennis table, air hockey and table football while it is possible to hold a marquee reception for up to 150 guests, meaning that the property is a wonderful place to host a wedding.

Beaconside House

Beaconside House

Beaconside House

This large country house in Devon is a truly special place to host a party. With a solar powered outdoor swimming pool and a heated indoor pool, it does not matter whether you are staying at Beaconside House in the summer or winter. Sleeping up to 19 guests in 8 wonderful bedrooms, the country house features a giant sized hot tub, a lawn tennis court, a croquet/boule lawn, a games room with pool and table tennis and private fishing facilities. There are beautiful sandy beaches just 10 minutes away and the surrounding 14 acres of woodland are perfect for a relaxing evening stroll. Enjoy some lovely summer nights in the house’s stunning gardens, which include a private terraced area with a BBQ and seating for up to 18 people. With so much to do inside and outside Beaconside House, your guests are sure to never be bored when celebrating here.

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Best Seaside Locations for a Luxury Break

Summer is finally here and many of us are planning that expensive trip overseas with our families or friends. Why spend all that money traveling when you can simply rent a luxury accommodation on these very isles and enjoy the glorious British sunshine at one of our many fantastic beaches?

Here is our list of the best seaside locations for a luxury break in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales:

1. The Pembrokeshire Coast, Wales

Pembrokeshire Beach

Pembrokeshire Beach

The beautiful Pembrokeshire Coast is full of many wonderful beaches. Designated as a National Park, the coast is home to the fabulous Barafundle Bay, a secluded beach near Stackpole Quay. The beach was included in a 2004 list of the top 12 beaches in the world and is often voted as one of the best beaches in Britain. Marloes Sands near the village of Marloes and Newgale Sands, not far from the city of St Davids, are also must visit beaches so book yourself a luxury cottage in Pembrokeshire and enjoy a seaside holiday that rivals any foreign alternative.

2. Devon, England

South-West Beach

South-West Beach

Everyone knows that the south-west of England is a great place to go for a seaside holiday but we think that Devon outshines its neighbours when it comes to stunning beaches. Blackpool Sands, not to be confused with its touristy namesake in the north-west, is a gorgeous beach that is made to look even more beautiful by the green cliffs and woodland that surrounds it. You are unlikely to see a beach like this anywhere else in the world so why bother flying to Tenerife and relaxing on a run-of-the-mill beach when you have such unique sands just a drive away? Other beaches in Devon such as Croyde Bay and Saunton Sands are perfect if you are looking to catch some waves so save money on flights and enjoy a luxury stay in the south-west.

3. Fife, Scotland

Scottish Beach

Scottish Beach

Further up north, you are unlikely to get the same kind of temperatures in Scotland but what you do get is peace and quiet in a stunning setting. St Andrews in Fife may be famous for being the home of golf but it is also where you will find beaches like West Sands, used for the opening scenes of the film Chariots of Fire. When visiting the beach, you can see why filmmakers chose it, as it is a glorious stretch of both sand and sea, perfect for relaxing walks no matter what time of year it is. Burntisland, which overlooks the Firth of Forth, is another beach in Fife which has a bit more going on than at West Sands. A Blue Flag winner, the beach is perfect for families with attractions such as crazy golf and bouncy castles. Have a look at our selection of luxury accommodation in Scotland and enjoy a peaceful summer holiday.

4. County Kerry, Ireland

Derrynane Beach, Kerry

Derrynane Beach, Kerry

Famous for its green countryside that led to it being known as the ‘Emerald Isle’, Ireland is also home to some fabulous beaches. County Kerry in particular has lovely, clean beaches and turquoise seas that are perfect for cooling down in. Our favourite beach is Derrynane Beach, located not far from the village of Caherdaniel, where you can go for peaceful long walks. If you are taking your dog with you on your luxury cottage break, then Derrynane is the perfect place to go, as the beach is pet-friendly and your pet pooch is sure to love a change of scenery. Take a look at our selection of luxury accommodation in Ireland and look forward to a relaxing seaside holiday on the Emerald Isle.

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What to bring to make the most out of your luxury break

People generally choose to rent a cottage for their holiday away, as they are simply looking for a home away from home. You could stay in a hotel or in a B&B but then you would lose that familiar feeling that you get from your own house. In a cottage you can cook in your very own kitchen, eat at your very own dining table and relax in your very own living room. It is just like being at home.

A luxury cottage is more than just a home away from home. These kinds of cottages are special and come with added extras that you are unlikely to have at home. You can rent a cottage that comes with an indoor or outdoor swimming pool, a hot tub, a tennis court or one that is simply luxurious. Here are our tips on what to bring on a luxury cottage break:

Some luxurious food & drink

If you are going to go on a luxury break, then you will need some luxurious food and drink to enjoy while you are there. You can of course bring some items from home and some cottage owners are happy for you to get groceries delivered to the property before you arrive ( a few will even stock your fridge and cupboards with the groceries for you!) but nothing can beat the local produce that you will discover on your arrival. Head down to a local market or simply pop along to the nearby butchers and get the ingredients for a fabulous home-cooked meal. Some of the produce might be more expensive but it is definitely worth it, as you are paying for real quality, fresh food. A bottle or two of champagne is absolutely necessary if you have a hot tub to relax in with the love of your life.

Champagne for the hob tub

Champagne for the hob tub

Tennis racquets

There is nothing more luxurious than having your very own tennis court located just outside your property. If you are renting a luxury country house for a family gathering or a birthday celebration, being able to play some games with your guests is a great way of keeping everyone entertained. Many such luxury properties will provide you with some tennis racquets to play with but they will often not be of the greatest quality. Get any tennis playing guests to bring their own racquets to ensure that no one can blame the equipment if they lose! You may also want to bring some golf clubs or fishing rods depending on what activities you want to do while you are on holiday.

Have a look at our selection of luxury accommodation that comes with a tennis court.

Tennis

A great way to keep your guests entertained

A good book

We are not saying that you should never venture out of your cottage but, if you book a luxury property to stay in, then there is no point treating it like a hotel room and only using it to sleep in. You should make sure that you get more bang for your buck by making full use of your luxury cottage and the best way of doing this is to simply relax with a good book. Depending on what type of cottage you have chosen, you can choose to sit by the swimming pool with your book, have a read while in your hot tub or relax inside and let your imagination flow. Go outside and take in the sights but be sure to use up every last inch of your luxury cottage. You may need more than one book!

Book

Have a good book to read during your stay

Your swimsuit

There would be nothing more annoying than turning up to your cottage and suddenly realising that you don’t have anything to wear in your swimming pool or hot tub! I think it’s fair to say that the majority of cottage owners frown upon skinny dipping…

Have a look at our selection of luxury accommodation that comes with a swimming pool. If a hot tub is more your thing, take a look at our selection here.

Swimsuit

Don’t forget your swimsuit!

You have rented a luxury property so you might as well make your stay as luxurious as possible. You only live once!

 

Posted in luxury golf holidays, luxury holiday homes with swimming pools, Tennis holidays, Tips and Advice, Uncategorized | Leave a comment