Maryville

Bounded on two sides by National Trust land, this picture-perfect Cornwall home is in the middle of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – the perfect place to come and get away from it all. You aren't wholly isolated here, though, as the charming local village of Treen has a shop, a cafe and a good, old-fashioned Cornish pub just a two-minute walk away. Also within walking distance is Pedn Vounder Beach, only fifteen minutes away on foot, which is an excellent place to laze in the sand and splash around in the turquoise sea. Built in the 1930s, this idyllic hideaway has been in the host's family for decades, and you can sense that welcoming atmosphere as soon as you step through the front door. Original period features have been beautifully brought back to life, including a gorgeous walnut fireplace with a cosy wood-burning stove. There's plenty of snug seating – whether you want to stretch out, curl up with a book from the library or admire the views – and the kitchen is designed with entertaining in mind. But the garden is the real stand-out. It's set on several different levels, with all sorts of nooks and crannies to tuck yourself away in. It's the ideal spot to enjoy afternoon tea and evening cocktails, surrounded by apple trees, an herb garden and wild hydrangea bushes that feel like something out of a fairytale.

Home truths:
*There are steep steps up to the house which you can see in the photos, as well as a narrow, steep staircase leading up to the top-floor bedrooms – this home may not be suitable for those with limited mobility
*You may bring two small or medium-sized dogs for an additional fee of £50 per dog – please arrange this with your host prior to your stay
*Dogs are not allowed to stay in the house unattended
*Your host provides a highchair, crib, children's dinnerware and toys
*Though there are plenty of coastal walks and beaches nearby, we think a car will let you explore more of the local area – there’s enough parking space for three cars, depending on the size of the vehicle
*The gate in the driveway opens outwards, so don’t park too close