Duchy Lemain Garden Apts

Quieter than its eastern counterpart, West Looe has a 16th-century inn, a quayside church and an unspoilt seafront. The beach here is rock pools and shingle, looking out towards the marine nature reserve of St George's Island, a mile offshore. Across the seven-arched Victorian bridge sits East Looe - also reachable by passenger ferry - with fishing boats, seafood restaurants and boat trips out to sea. The South West Coast Path passes through town, and the scenic Looe Valley Line runs a 30-minute route inland to Liskeard, on the southern edge of Bodmin Moor.

This penthouse apartment is one of a group in a refurbished Victorian villa on the hillside above Looe Bay, reached via a sloping path and around 63 steps. Every room has a sea view. The open-plan kitchen, dining and living space has sofas, a TV, DVD player and CD/radio, and a utility room with washer-dryer. The super-king-size bedroom looks out across the water to St George's Island, and the bathroom shares the same light, bright look as the rest of the apartment.

A private walled and paved sun terrace to the rear looks out over St George's Island and the sea beyond, a quiet spot for evenings outside.

Nearby: East Looe Beach (400m) and Hannafore Beach (400m). See our Looe guide for more beaches and walks in the area.

Best for couples wanting a sea view in every room and a quiet retreat above the harbour. Less good for anyone with mobility needs, since around 63 steps lead up to the apartment.