Happiness is a stay beside the seaside!
JUST being beside the sea is enough to put most of us in a happy mood, usually from the moment we catch our first glimpse of it. Swathes of sand, cawing seagulls, rock pools, colourful beach huts, crab shacks on the seafront and magnificent walks along the coastal path are just some of the magical ingredients that call us back again and again to the great British coast.
From the time-warp Isle of Wight to the fishing villages of Cornwall, our seaside world is studded with golden-sand beaches and secret coves that are beckoning us now for a spring visit.
The timeless swish of the waves is always an irresistible draw, instantly switching off stress. But there’s much else to enjoy at the modern seaside.
As the coast transforms, expect to find the freshest seafood and gourmet restaurants, stylish hotels, cottages and lodges with wi-fi and satellite TV, and a bucket-and-spade-load of fun.
With the bonus of nearby stately homes and glorious gardens to explore, plus a calendar of lively events, the coast is the place to be this summer.
FLIP-FLOP TO CORNWALL
BY MAY, flip-flops are the footwear of choice in Cornwall, as locals and visitors alike ditch winter boots and let the first rays of summer warm their toes. In fact, the Cornish reckon that their summer starts six weeks early.
Come down now while prices are still low and discover some of the 300 beaches lapped by azure seas, 70 fabulous gardens in full bloom and pictur- esque working harbours where smugglers’ inns serve hearty lunches.
Poldark is back on our screens next month and a cottage featured in the series can be rented at classic.co.uk.
The gorgeous, 18th-century Captain’s Gig has played home to Verity, Ross’s cousin. Perched above Charlestown harbour, it is the perfect spot for watching the tall ships and imagining Ross riding over the clifftops to see you.
Medical drama Doc Martin is filming in and around Port Isaac at the moment — and the crew has made good use of Rumps Ahead, a fabulous little barn conversion for two with sea views, also available from Classic Cottages.
Port Isaac happens to be home to Restaurant Nathan Outlaw, which has two Michelin stars and is part of Cornwall’s booming foodie scene.
CHANNEL ISLAND HOPS
BOAT rides across sparkling seas are a summer joy — and you can enjoy plenty of them if you stay on Guernsey and go island-hopping. Take a ferry to experience the sweeping golden sands and Neolithic burial sites of Herm, dramatic cliff-scapes and superb stargazing opportunities on beautiful Sark, and Alderney’s wonderful wildlife and unique charm.
You could also plan your trip around an event, such as one of the many food and drink festivals or guided walking events on the islands.
Sark Sheep Racing takes place in July, while delicious lobster lunches are served all summer at La Sablonnerie Hotel. And Alderney Week in August is the Channel Islands’ biggest carnival. Island Getaways is offering some fantastic deals at the moment.
COACH TO COAST
COACH holidays can be a great way to visit the coast, making it easy to explore without having to drive.
For example, Shearings offers trips to Eastbourne and Great Dixter, the home of gardener Christopher Lloyd. Or visit
findacoachholiday.com for more options. Then line up a happy time by the sea!