Woodpecker Shepherd's Hut

4364 is no longer with us

If you were looking for cottages like Woodpecker Shepherd's Hut, how about trying these:

Oh my are you in for a treat when you stay at this enchanted hideaway, in the most glorious setting, nestled amongst trees on the beautiful and peaceful Dinham Estate - it's the stuff dreams are made of. Park your car and take the short stroll along the garden path to your own little sanctuary. Stop, breathe and take in the view - it's one in a million. Framed by the branches of the trees, the picture is one of lush green meadows, rolling countryside, wooded headland and, wait for it, the beautiful Camel Estuary - bliss! From dining al fresco or sheltered in your little wooden hut, to a leisurely morning lying in your super-comfy bed, cooking supper over the fire-pit BBQ or taking a dip in the hot tub, it's there - that view - soak it up and enjoy.

With quality craftsmanship throughout and a restful and cosy interior, relaxing is a shoo-in. The handmade kitchen has oak worksurfaces, a two-ring hob, cooker, fridge and a dinky Belfast sink and, if we can't tempt you to eat outside, you can dine inside with the toasty wood-burner flickering in the background. There's even an en suite shower-room, with oodles of hot and cold water and a flushing toilet thrown in for good measure. Can't find your bed - aha! It's tucked away in the wall - already made-up with luscious linens and a proper mattress and, as you lie back in bed, you can enjoy the night skies through the star-gazing window overhead - how cool is that!

There are no sheep with this shepherd's hut but an abundance of birds and wildlife and, of course, the odd Woodpecker or two to keep watch over. And, if you want to explore more on the estate, there are 40 acres to discover. From an evening stroll across the fields, a magical walk through the woods on the headland or a saunter down to the water's edge to take a closer look at the comings and goings along the river estuary.

You'll feel a million miles away from it all but you're actually right on the doorstep of the trendy hotspots of Rock, Polzeath and Port Isaac and, if things couldn't get any better, there's even a foot ferry from Rock to popular Padstow. The area is an adventure playground but don't panic if you prefer to take things at a gentler pace - you won't be disappointed. For some messing about on the water, there's surfing at Polzeath and sailing and water-skiing at Rock, or you might simply want to take a pew at one of the many beachside bars and cafes and watch the experts show you how it's done. If food is high on the agenda, there are more celebrity chefs and award-winning restaurants than you can shake a stick or stock up on local produce at one of the many farm shops, to cook up some delights at home all washed down with a glass of the local award-winning Camel Valley wine. You'll see the Atlantic Coast in all its glory from the coastal footpath or take a wander through the pretty fishing village of Port Isaac, home to TV's Doc Martin, The Fisherman's Friends and two Nathan Outlaw Restaurants. The historic houses and gardens at Lanhydrock and Pencarrow will delight and, if you fancy seeing the Camel Estuary from a different view, why not cycle along the renowned Camel Trail that winds its way from Wenford Bridge on Bodmin Moor to Padstow on the coast.