Shellseekers

Shellseekers is a two-bedroom cottage set high above the fishing village of Port Isaac on the north Cornwall coast, sleeping four across a double and a triple bunk. The property sits above the rooftops with views from the living room and open viewing platform towards the harbour - a useful vantage point in a village where the lanes are steep and narrow.

Inside, two bath or shower rooms, an open fire, and a dishwasher and washing machine give the cottage practical depth for a week-long stay. Half a dozen steps lead down from the driveway to the front door, so entry is not step-free. Up to two dogs are welcome.

Outside, private parking fits two cars and a garden gives outdoor space. Port Isaac harbour, where boats still land the day's catch, is a few minutes' walk downhill. Nathan Outlaw's Michelin-starred restaurant and several fish cafes sit in the harbour quarter. The coast path runs east to Port Gaverne (around 0.6 miles) and west toward Port Quin. Polzeath's broad family-friendly sands are 6 miles away; Daymer Bay, also dog-friendly, is around 8 miles.

Wadebridge is 10 miles inland for supermarkets and a cinema. Tintagel and Boscastle are under 30 minutes by car.

Best for: small families or two couples wanting harbour-village atmosphere with coast path access. Less good for: guests expecting level access to the village - the lanes down to Port Isaac are steep.