Driftwood Cottage, Bere Alston, is a beautifully converted stone barn set entirely on one level, offering a serene rural retreat for small families or groups of friends seeking to unwind. The modern L-shaped kitchen is well-equipped with an electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge / freezer, and dishwasher, flowing naturally into a relaxed dining area. The open-plan living space features soaring vaulted ceilings and generous floor-to-ceiling windows, with sliding doors opening onto the wrap-around deck and framing breathtaking views across the rolling countryside and the shimmering Tamar estuary.
Step outside to discover the wrap-around composite deck, where two loungers, outdoor dining furniture, and a charcoal BBQ invite long, lazy evenings beneath open skies. Inside, two comfortable bedrooms, a double and a twin, share a thoughtfully appointed family bathroom featuring a freestanding bath and a walk-in shower. Bright and airy throughout, the cottage's high ceilings and large windows flood every room with natural light, creating a wonderfully uplifting atmosphere.
Imagine waking to birdsong and the soft light of a Devon morning, padding to the kitchen to brew your first coffee while rolling countryside unfolds beyond the windows. Spend your days exploring ancient footpaths, browsing Tavistock's independent shops, or simply reclining on the deck with a good book. As dusk settles, fire up the BBQ and raise a glass to evenings made for long, unhurried conversation.
Driftwood Cottage, Bere Alston, is perfectly placed for exploring the rich history and natural beauty of the Tamar Valley and beyond. Step back in time at Morwellham Quay (4 km), a captivating living history village where Victorian mining and rural life are brought vividly to life through guided tours and historic buildings. Plymouth's award-winning The Box (12 km) is a must-visit, housing a museum, art gallery, and archive with diverse and engaging exhibitions for all ages. Nature lovers will be drawn to Lydford Gorge (21 km), where dramatic waterfalls, a devilish pothole, and temperate rainforest trails await. For something altogether more spirited, the Plymouth Gin Distillery (28 km) offers guided tours and tastings at a historic distillery dating back to 1793.
Venture a little further to find even more remarkable experiences. Greenway (45 km) in Kingswear is a magical riverside retreat, once the beloved home of Agatha Christie, offering beautiful gardens and peaceful woodland walks. Thrill-seekers of all ages will love Splashdown Quaywest (46 km) in Paignton, the UK's largest all-outdoor waterpark, packed with twisting slides, tyre rides, and an exciting aquaplay arena beside the beach. The commanding Dartmouth Castle (48 km) offers centuries of military history, interactive exhibits, and scenic coastal walking trails.
For those keen to explore the surrounding towns, Tavistock, just 11 kilometres away, offers a delightful day out in an ancient stannary town steeped in rich heritage. This charming market town is widely celebrated as the birthplace of the cream tea, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. Visitors can browse independent shops, antique centres, and galleries at leisure while soaking up the historic atmosphere. Meanwhile, Okehampton is a 38-kilometre drive through stunning Devon countryside and serves as a bustling market town positioned right on the edge of Dartmoor National Park's wild expanse. This makes it an ideal base for exploring the dramatic moorland landscapes, ancient stone circles, and rugged tors that define this magnificent national park.
