Countisbury Hill Cottage

For a country escape close to the coast, Countisbury Hill Cottage can offer just that. It sits in the remote hamlet of Countisbury, next to the coast road leading down to Lynmouth. The traditional stone and slate cottage plays host to a homely two-bedroom nook with low ceilings adding to its charm. There’s room for four people and one dog. The large, enclosed garden provides ample space for pup to stretch his legs without escaping.

You’ll be on the fringes of Exmoor and close to the rugged north Devon coastline. Hikes will take you through its wild uplands and wooded valleys and out towards dramatic rocky cliffs. A good place to start is at Watersmeet. Enjoy a cream tea in its historic tea-garden and old fishing lodge before setting off.

You could loop onto the South West Coast Path for longer walks along the headlands and towards the rugged, Valley of Rocks. For the nearest shops and restaurants, head to the delightful town of Lynton, England’s little Switzerland, with its water-powered cliff railway just a 10 minute drive from the cottage.