10 Romantic Stays By The Sea

Escape to our pick of cosy coastal retreats for a bonding break à deux

- Alice Westgate

FOR… AN ISLAND ESCAPE
BEACH BAY COTTAGE, UIG, ISLE OF LEWIS

Inspired by an ancient Neolithic design, Beach Bay Cottage is a stone hideaway built into the hillside beside the pristine white sands of Uig Bay. A wide window looks straight out over the water so you can drink in the ever-changing seascape, and the peaceful location means you will be surrounded by wildlife galore, including eagles and deer. Unwind in the sauna and Jacuzzi bath, or take a trip to the nearby Abhainn Dearg whisky distillery to sample the local tipple before heading back for dinner at the celebrated Uig Sands Restaurant, which sits in a glorious spot right beside the beach.

HOW TO BOOK A seven-night break costs from £1,039 for up to four people (0345 498 6900, cottages.com).

FOR… A LUXURY HOTEL

THE LOOKOUT, THE PIG-ON THE BEACH, STUDLAND, DORSET

The Lookout is a thatched dovecote in the grounds of this country house hotel. Overlooking the Jurassic coastline, the ground-floor bedroom has a four-poster, while the bathroom above it has a freestanding bath and a monsoon shower. Just a 20-minute stroll away is the hotel’s own beach hut, which can be booked for £50 per day – it comes with deck chairs, towels and a windbreak, and you’ll also be given a flask so you can have a cup of tea as you gaze out over Old Harry Rocks, a magnificent chalk headland that stretches far out to sea.

HOW TO BOOK The Lookout costs from £310 per night (01929 450288, thepighotel.com).

FOR… SURF AND SUNSETS