Chalet Saunton

The Chalet Saunton, Saunton Sands, Devon, UK - Explore & Book

"In a county of cosy B&Bs and cream teas, these luxuriously minimalist self-catering apartments are a new and ambitious departure. Designed and built by owner Tim Fleming - a visionary London-based developer who grew up on this very plot of land - they are the epitome of a sleek, less-is-more aesthetic. What you get more of is top-spec appliances (including underfloor heating and temperature-controlled wine fridges), super-comfy beds, soul-cleansing marbled bathrooms, a smattering of impeccably chosen artworks and, above all, space. Each measures 1400 sq ft - more than most holiday cottages - with 2-3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and an open-plan living area that you could hold a ballroom dance in. What you get less of is clutter - no shelves of dog-eared paperbacks or dated DVDs (but there's Sonos and Netflix-connected TVs), and definitely not a doily in sight. Perched in prime position above one of Devon's (and England's) most awe-inspiring beaches - 3 miles of sand backed by endless dunes and Unesco-listed burrows - you'll also get more of (but never enough of) mesmeric sea views. Waters morph from silver to sunset gold, pinprick surfers play on Atlantic rollers, artful clouds scud by. It may not be the Maldives, but for painterly beauty inside and out, this spot can compete with anywhere in the world. Highs Every apartment has a wraparound sea-facing balcony or terrace and huge picture windows to pull in the panoramaFurnishings and fittings could not be higher spec: think Brume chandeliers, limited edition prints (we loved Tim Hall's Sky I), top-notch kitchens, Le Corbusier sofas in the penthousePocket-sprung mattresses and down duvets are blissful, and the soundproofing bombproof: we slept like babiesIt's just 5 mins' walk down a sandy path to the beachWith boogie boards to borrow, brilliant surf lessons, golf a short walk away, horse-riding at nearby Croyde, and lung-clearing coastal hikes all around, you won't get bored Lows As you will have gathered, this is not a place for those who like stacks of homely bric-a-bracBe aware the set-up is self-catering: apart from a thorough meet-and-greet, you may not see any staff during your stayIf you want to dine out in reasonable style, you'll have to drive to Braunton (5 mins) or furtherThis level of quality and space does not come cheapA strict cancellation policy" - Michael Cullen