10 properties that make you go ‘wow!’

Luxury

Posted by Kate Atkin on 28th June 2023

West Pine Villa, Cornwall

Celebrating a special occasion, or just looking to treat yourself to an extra-memorable staycation? We pride ourselves in offering holidays with the wow factor and showcasing amazing places you’ll want to return to time and time again.

We’ve selected just ten of our current favourites below, which we’re sure you’ll never want to leave. These properties really have everything covered, from warming wood burners and rainfall showers to private beach access, an on-site spa and even the little extras, like fluffy dressing gowns, that really make all the difference when it comes to an exceptional luxury holiday. 

Tucked away in some of the UK’s most gorgeous rural and coastal locations, each of these properties is bursting with character and packed with unique features and tasteful decor.

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A luxury, seaside holiday cottage in North Devon with wow factor

Skybreak, North Devon | sleeps 8 + 3 dogs

Set in the charming village of Appledore at the mouth of the River Torridge, Skybreak charms with its waterside views, airy open-plan living spaces, and ocean-inspired décor. The perfect base for friends and families exploring North Devon, this luxurious property boasts all the modern comforts and amenities to help you unwind with ease. 

On summer afternoons and evenings, enjoy al fresco drinks on the glass-fronted balcony with views of the water, or retreat to the scenic, elevated garden where stylish seating and a bubbling hot tub await. Inside, crisp open-plan living spaces allow for plenty of room for all to relax, all the while appreciating the splendid views. At night, four sumptuous bedrooms offer a great night's sleep ahead of the next Devonshire adventure. 

Be wowed by:

  • The panoramic coast and countryside views
  • The scenic, glass-fronted balcony and the elevated garden with a hot tub 
  • The airy, open-plan living spaces with far-reaching views 
  • The perfect location for exploring North Devon's best beaches, towns and attractions 

What our guests thought:

“Outstanding property and a lovely location. Only a short walk from the village where you can find nice pubs and tea rooms, and close to all the wonderful North Devon beaches. We didn't want to come home! We will definitely be back."

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Burnside, Lake District

Burnside, Lake District | sleeps 6 + 2 dogs

This architecturally spectacular property showcases luxury features at every turn. Tucked away in a rural idyll in the Lake District National Park, Burnside promises a relaxing and special retreat for up to six guests and their two four-legged friends. 

The striking open-plan lounge/kitchen/diner enjoys far-reaching countryside views – a vista which can be appreciated in winter, too, from the cosy warmth in front of the crackling wood burner. The striking mezzanine supports an intimate reading space, while the bedrooms are found on the ground floor. On warm evenings, fire up the BBQ and dine surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the Lake District.

Be wowed by:

  • The breathtaking rural views
  • The arresting architecture
  • The cosy reading space on the mezzanine
  • The kitchen with all its mod-cons

What our guests thought:

"Perfect. Our family have just spent a blissful week here. Absolutely stunning property. Immaculate, practical, cosy, yet spacious, pristine and well-equipped. Stunning views, the evening view of Blencathra is special. The garden was lovely, nicely planted and plenty of space to relax and allow our dog to explore (we were careful around the bunnies and birds!). The location is perfect, especially as we had fell walks planned for that area. Will return." 

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This holiday cottage on the Isle of Wight has the wow factor

Bonchurch Waterfront Bliss, Isle of Wight | sleeps 6 + 2 dogs

With direct access to the promenade of beautiful Bonchurch Beach from the garden, Bonchurch Waterfront Bliss provides the ultimate luxury coastal holiday. 

Ease yourself into your new tranquil surroundings with a glass of something chilled on the terrace and drink in magical sunsets over the crystal-clear ocean. Spend your days on the sandy shores surrounded by stunning coastline before returning to your comfortable beachfront cottage with mesmerising sea views.

Be wowed by:

  • The incredible views of sunsets over the ocean
  • It’s only a few steps away from sandy Bonchurch Beach
  • The luxurious decor with a nautical theme
  • A seaside-theme garden complete with deckchairs

What our guests thought:

“This is the most beautiful, clean and luxurious place we have ever stayed. This place has the WOW factor and lives up to and beyond the information on the website.”

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The Boathouse, Pembrokeshire

The Boathouse, Pembrokeshire | sleeps 4

A leafy retreat packed with traditional features and a warm welcome, The Boathouse effortlessly melds comfort with style, creating a relaxing haven for a family break. 

Within 100 metres of Glen Beach in Saundersfoot, its vaulted ceilings, soft lighting and greenery make it a wonderfully zen place to return to after a day of sandcastle building and swimming. An extravagant kitchen island, two beautifully decorated en-suite bedrooms and a secluded outdoor dining space are just some of the property’s admirable features.

Be wowed by:

  • The Boathouse’s proximity to the beach
  • The sumptuous wet room in the master en-suite
  • The leafy mature garden
  • A crackling wood burner for cosy evenings in

What our guests thought:

"5-star rating! The Boathouse exceeded our expectations. The hosts thought of everything to make our stay comfortable. A true home-from-home experience. The location is just brilliant. We never tired of the experience of walking to the town centre via the beach! You won’t be disappointed if you book here. The hosts are professional yet friendly and genuinely care for you."

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West Pine Villa, Cornwall

West Pine Villa, Cornwall | sleeps 6 + 2 dogs

Every detail in West Pine Villa, an architect-designed abode near Portreath, Cornwall, has been styled to perfection, creating an aesthetic and comfortable space. Promoting indoor/outdoor living, a Mediterranean-style terrace is furnished with soft seating and an area for al fresco dining. 

Tucked away in a private corner of the patio is an indulgent hot tub, with sun loungers alongside for soaking up some Cornish rays. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the interior with light, illuminating a space which we’re sure you’ll find hard to leave, even if it is to explore the spectacular coastline around nearby Portreath.

Be wowed by:

  • The stunning garden with various seating areas
  • A luxurious hot tub
  • The immaculate interior (and exterior!) design
  • The elegant free-standing bath

What our guests thought:

“A wonderful week away, the villa was beautiful, stunning in fact. Everything you could possibly need and more. Immaculate inside and out. The hot tub was amazing and the views were lovely, loved the horse and sheep and chickens. In an ideal location to travel to places, St Ives, Porthleven, Penzance, and many more. The owner is lovely, so welcoming and friendly. Will definitely be returning. Thank you for a wonderful stay in this beautiful villa.”

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This holiday cottage in Hastings, Sussex has the wow factor

House on the Hill – Hastings, Sussex | sleeps 10 + 5 dogs

Lavish interiors, daring decor and a courtyard garden of dreams make this Grade-II listed gem, House On The Hill in the heart of Hastings, an impeccable choice for a group getaway.

Sumptuous boudoirs feature a Chesterfield leather bed, decadent roll-top baths and a chaise longue, while the jaw-dropping lounge and its six-foot projector screen set the scene for movie nights. There are glittering gold tiles in an en-suite, a statement butler sink in the kitchen, and marble-patterned sofas in the lounge. Outside, a suntrap terrace and a rear courtyard offer two spaces to relax, with a fernery and a bold water feature ensuring the styling is still on-point al fresco.

Be wowed by:

  • The spectacular sea views
  • The six-foot projector screen with Apple TV and Sonos sound system
  • The decadent decor and outlandish design choices
  • The jungle-style courtyard garden with fernery and a water feature

What our guests thought:

“I stayed here with my family and friends for my 30th birthday and it was a true delight. The pictures you see online are amazing but it doesn't truly capture the essence of the home. It was truly stunning, very grand and cosy at the same time. The kitchen is fully equipped and was lovely to cook in. The secret garden in the back was lovely to hang out in. So many wonderful quirks everywhere, I honestly don't have a bad word to say.”

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This holiday cottage in the Forest of Dean has the wow factor

Dexters Den - Exotic Animal Retreat, Forest of Dean | sleeps 2 + 2 dogs

Nestled in the heart of a peaceful valley, Deepdean Dexters Den enjoys acres of established gardens and wide-open countryside of which you are free to roam, making it great for lovers of the outdoors. 

Original features such as oak floorboards and beamed ceilings can be found throughout this 17th-century cottage, but the real wow factor is outside. As well as a lavish shared outdoor pool, the grounds of the cottage are also home to an exotic animal rescue sanctuary where you can meet over 30 different species of farm and exotic breeds dotted amongst the gardens, including alpacas, zebras and meerkats.

Be wowed by:

  • 360-degree awe-inspiring countryside views
  • The African thatched hut where you can watch wallaby, zebra and reindeer graze
  • An outdoor swimming pool, perfect for sunny days
  • You can get up close to a variety of exotic animal species including meerkats

What our guests thought:

“This is an utterly charming and unique place. The cottage was delightful, well thought out and perfect for the two of us and our two dogs. The wild animals which are accommodated on-site were a fascinating bonus.” 

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This holiday cottage in Exmoor has the wow factor

The Lazy Sheep Barn, Exmoor | sleeps 10 + 2 dogs

Discover rural Somerset at its finest from The Lazy Sheep Barn, a large five-star barn conversion full of indulgence. Its location alone promises the wow factor – set within 60 acres of picturesque grounds on the edge of Exmoor and within a designated International Dark Sky Reserve, you’ll find a plethora of scenic walks from the doorstep. 

It offers an idyllic countryside retreat, where farmhouse features, like the original wooden beams, are enhanced by luxuries that range from an enormous dining table to a private hot tub and an outdoor fire pit where you can end the night beneath the stars.

Be wowed by:

  • The 60 acres of gorgeous grounds to explore
  • A private hot tub with views across the land
  • The fire pit, where you can relax in warmth beneath the stars
  • Luxury furnishings and extras that make it a real home from home

What our guests thought:

“Amazing location, couldn’t ask for more. Owners were very helpful and unobtrusive, the hot tub was FAB and the views in the morning were simply delicious. Highly recommend!”

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Luxury holiday cottages with the wow factor

Treetops, New Forest | sleeps 5

Treetops is a truly magnificent upside-down property in the forest, boasting panoramic views of the Beaulieu River and enchanting woodlands. Modern and spacious, the interiors invite guests to explore every corner. 

Wandering through the local area will reveal an amazing maritime museum, an 18th-century shipyard and a number of friendly local ponies and donkeys grazing away. Return home to spend the evenings dining alfresco, lounging by the fire or playing table tennis. Treetops captivates all who visit.

Be wowed by:

  • Luxurious bedrooms with views over the woodland
  • The snug - a cosy, bean-bag-filled area perfect for the kids
  • Lovely veranda with garden furniture, the perfect spot for morning coffee
  • An effortlessly cool decor throughout

What our guests thought:

“Treetops is a gem of a house in a perfect location. We loved wandering from the door to Bucklers Hard and Beaulieu. A really relaxing and peaceful stay; we will definitely be back.”

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A luxury holiday cottage in the Lake District with wow factor

1 Woodheads, Lake District | sleeps 4 + 1 dog

Stylishly decorated interiors, magnificent views of Grange-over-Sands and fine facilities such as a roaring wood burner are just some of the reasons why 1 Woodheads is extra special. 

This luxurious ground-floor apartment resides within a wonderfully elegant Regency-style villa and is perfectly placed to explore popular Lake District towns and attractions, the sand and sea of the Cartmel Peninsula and endless rolling countryside.

Be wowed by:

  • The far-reaching coastal views from the veranda
  • The luxuries and finishing touches offered in every room
  • A wonderful selection of pubs and restaurants nearby
  • Its great location close to Cartmel and Lake Windermere

What our guests thought:

“Five-star accommodation! Great view, beautiful property, a warm welcome of tea and shortbread. Couldn’t have asked for a better place to stay. Loved my fluffy bathrobe!”

More luxury Lake District cottages


Luxury holidays in the UK

Feeling inspired to book a luxurious break full of wow factor? We offer a decadent selection of luxury holiday cottages presented to the highest standards - from traditional townhouses to lavish penthouse apartments across the UK. A large selection boasts family-friendly features and many welcome dogs too, so no one needs to be left at home.

Find your perfect luxury getaway

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.