Dog friendly cottage, sleeps 2 - Hartland (3mls NE), Devon

Gaze out across the picturesque, verdant countryside and catch glimpses of the sea in the distance when you stay at this delightful former barn for two. In an excellent position for exploring both the Devon and Cornwall coastal areas, the one-bedroom hideaway nestles in rural surroundings, 3 miles from Hartland. Set on 260 acres of farmland, it has access to an abundance of great walks and is 5 miles from the secluded beach at Welcombe Bay, which is popular with surfers.

Ideal for couples, it could also suit those with one child under five. Open the door to the stone retreat and enter to find airy accommodation with a vaulted ceiling and exposed beams. Rest and recuperate after your excursions in the open-plan lounge/kitchen/diner.

Open the door in here to bring in a summer breeze on hot days. Unpack the fresh provisions you have bought in the kitchen area then rustle up a romantic meal for two. Dine inside or out, depending on the weather, then while away your evening in front of the TV or a DVD.

When you are ready to turn in for the night, head through to the lovely king-size bedroom, where you can also have an extra cot bed made up for a little one by special request. The barn comes with a family shower room. Lose yourselves in the views when you relax out on the patio with a glass of wine or cup of tea.

Cook dinner out here on the BBQ on summer evenings. While away an hour or two in Hartland, browsing in the shops, sourcing local produce, and visiting the abbey and its gardens. Plan a day trip to Westward Ho!, 18 miles away, to bask in the sunshine on its long golden sands and to swim in the sea.