Kerenza

This high-quality apartment makes a comfortable coastal escape for a couple or small family close to North Cornwall’s iconic coast. It’s positioned by the road above Polzeath Beach for swimming, sandcastle-building and surfing, with easy access to the village, where you’ll find a selection of shops and great places to eat and drink – from Cornish ice cream to fresh seafood. Follow the rugged South West Coast Path for incredible views from Pentire Point and The Rumps, 2.5 miles, or head into Rock, 2.5 miles, for shops, restaurants, golf and sailing. From here you can also jump aboard the ferry to the attractive fishing port of Padstow, perhaps picking up some fish and chips to eat by the harbour. Charming Port Isaac is just 7 miles away and, venturing a little further, the magical Tintagel Castle is only 13.5 miles away.

Chic modern furnishings complement period features in this bijou getaway, with soft colours making the most of coastal light. Take one step up to the door and stroll into the pretty kitchen/diner, where a dining table for four allows for leisurely breakfasts, lunches and evening meals. The sleek kitchen, finished with accents of brushed brass, includes a microwave, dishwasher and boiling-water tap for cooking convenience. The cosy lounge is flooded with natural light through the bay window, and plush seating allows you to sit back and enjoy delightful views over the golden sands and lapping waves. When darkness falls, lower the blinds and set up a favourite movie on the Smart TV. Two bedrooms provide versatile accommodation. The handsome king-size room features ocean-inspired tones and crisp linens, with hanging hooks and a chest of drawers for storage, plus another Smart TV for leisurely mornings in bed. The compact yet cleverly designed bunk room is ideal for younger members of your group. A family shower room, with a rainfall showerhead and elegant tiling, completes this welcoming escape.

A bench outside the door allows you to sit and enjoy the sunshine with a coffee and a book, and there are shared gardens with picnic benches – reached via two flights of wooden steps – for you to set up games or linger over a sundowner as you appreciate the views. From here, it’s just a short walk along a private path (which is steep and uneven in places) and then across the road to reach the beach itself. An additional benefit of this property is private parking for one car.