The Moorings is an over 350-year-old fisherman’s cottage located in the picturesque South Hams village of Hope Cove in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). In the heart of Hope Cove’s once thriving fishing village, situated overlooking the harbour and beach, with Mouthwell Sands just a stone throw away; it would be nearly impossible to find a better property than The Moorings, accommodating up to 6 guests.

This upside-down house presents an unpretentious, stylish, fun and quirky décor, with a real home from home feeling the moment you walk through the front door. Powered by the solar panels and supplemented by Good Energy, The Moorings is 100% run off of renewable energy. 

Upon entry, you are welcomed by a bright hallway and lavish wooden staircase ascending to the living space. At the top, a wonderful bench invites you to embrace the beach house comforts.  Heading towards the kitchen, you will find the cloakroom, fitted with a toilet and washbasin. Onto the kitchen, the rustic comfortable seating and table sits in the centre of the eaved kitchen area, perfect for cosy coffee mornings overlooking Harbour beach through the low-ceiling country cottage window. The one wall kitchen is inclusive of integrated base units, dishwasher, electric oven, hob and full sized fridge freezer. The adjacent wall homes the under counter washing machine, tumble dryer, tea and coffee nook, with coffee maker and a wonderful rustic wooden dresser.  Additional appliances include a microwave, kettle and toaster. 

Across the landing, a small step down into the lounge you are met with the open-plan living room. This large living space is separated into two distinct rooms by a single step. The beach themed lounge presents a gorgeous cosy comfort with two big squashy leather sofas, a delightful stone walled fireplace with a log burner and a delightful window perch to watch life pass by and the tidal swirl of Harbour beach. The Moorings lounge is equipped with a smart TV, DVD player and Wifi to occupy all the family of an evening. Behind the main lounge, up a single step, the snug is found. This spacious room offers a sofa, a plethora of reading material and for the children (and adults), a range of toys and games. 

A patio door leads from the lounge to the outside balcony. This large decked terrace, enclosed by a glass balustrade with incredible views of both beaches is the perfect al-fresco dining and lounging space.  Whether you sit on the lounging sofas or decide to al-fresco your meals on the outdoor dining table, either option provides the perfect opportunity to relax and watch the world go by or merely sit and enjoy the sounds of waves crashing onto the beach below. 

Downstairs the accommodation is spanned across three bedrooms. Bedroom one presents a fantastic twin single room. This bright and homely room includes quirky features like the window seating, an inglenook drawer storage space, built-in cupboard and a simple en-suite. The en-suite offers a shower, toilet and washbasin. 

Towards the rear of The Moorings, bedroom two is situated. Decorated with in a rustic chic theme, this bedroom presents accommodation for two guests in the double size bed and offers built-in wardrobe storage. A fantastically bright en-suite presents a delightful tranquil soak room inclusive of a washbasin and storage drawer, toilet and soak tub with a handheld shower. 

Finally, the master bedroom is found on the right of the house. This exceptionally spacious bedroom homes the king size bed, bedside tables, fitted wardrobe with plenty of hanging space, a chest of drawers and the large en-suite bathroom. Quirky features including the lovely window seating overlooking the Harbour beach, the dressing alcove and rustic furnishings complete this bright beach-home style bedroom. The en-suite is fitted with a wide walk-in shower with skylight window above and two shower head units, a toilet and washbasin integrated into a base unit storage cupboard.

 

What makes The Moorings so special from the owner

Hope Cove is a wonderful, charming village and we are lucky enough to be in its very heart. As a family, our real joy is that our children can walk out the front door and onto the beaches, safe to explore and play. In the summer months, they don’t wear shoes at all and are always sandy and happy (and usually smeared in ice cream!) It’s the ultimate barefoot hideaway and the sunsets are quite extraordinary – Preferably enjoyed on the deck with a chilled glass of something. Bliss!

 

Things to do

Situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Hope Cove is the hidden gem of the South Hams.

The sea is calm and safe. It’s perfect for beginners keen to try their hand at surfing, swimming, kayaking, or just some fishing and crabbing from the breakwater and rocks. Rock pooling is always popular pastime too.

Next door is beautiful Mouthwell Beach, patrolled by a beach lifeguard during the summer season. It’s perfect for paddling, swimming and sandcastles

The Hope and Anchor Inn, The Lobster Pod Bistro and The Cove, serve a variety of food, craft beers, real ale and a good selection of gin and other spirits. The Cove also offers an eclectic mix of live music and has just been awarded the coveted ‘Best Craft Beer Pub Award’. The Lobster Pod Bistro is a must visit location. The heated pods provide a unique fish food experience that include heated enclosed pods, indoor or outdoor seating and spectacular views across Bigbury bay and Hope Cove.

The post office and store are nearby and can provide basic groceries and fresh baked goods each morning.

Pick up the South West Coastal Path in front of the cottage and walk across the headland to Thurlestone, with its famous rock, It’s a nature enthusiasts paradise with its rare butterflies and birds. Or walk the other way towards Bolberry Down with its wild coastline and dramatic cliffs, perfect for Seal and dolphin spotting.

Out and About

If you want to venture further afield, Kingsbridge and Salcombe are only a few miles away and the historic Tudor town of Totnes just slightly further.
Woodlands Adventure Theme Park, South Devon Chilli Farm, Living Coasts and Kent’s Cavern are all nearby days out, particularly good for little ones. And if you fancy a change from the coast, you can head inland to stunning Dartmoor National Park with its magnificent Tors and wild ponies, only a short drive away.