Beach Cottages at Osea Island

In Essex's River Blackwater is a place that promises a truly serene stay. Osea Island features an array of gorgeous holiday homes, and these two Beach Cottages are up there with the best of them. Both cottages have been lovingly decorated by the owners with style and comfort on show in equal measure while their location means arresting views and easy access to the island's five miles of beaches. Each has a décor which combines the modern and the traditional, the stylish and the homely. With one cottage sleeping four and the other eight, they can be rented as a pair or separately, making them ideal for groups of friends and family alike.

Cottage number one, called Manor Beach I, sleeps eight guests across a total of four bedrooms. Each of the rooms has a comfy double bed, while the quaint décor makes for the perfect spot to doze off in the evening. The living room has plenty of seating orientated around the flatscreen TV and cosy wood burner - great for movie nights. The kitchen is well-proportioned with all mod cons and an island breakfast bar, while its modern amenities mean evening meals are a pleasure. The circular dining table will comfortably seat all guests while two French doors lead out onto the garden where you can dine al fresco at the picnic tables. There are two family bathrooms, each with a standalone tub and one with a walk-in shower.

The second cottage, Manor Beach II, is similarly well-equipped, although sleeping four guests across two ensuite (one shower and one bath and shower) double bedrooms. The kitchen is a more rustic affair, but equally well-equipped, including a wood burning stove and four-seater table. The living room has two cosy couches and is afforded beachside views courtesy of a set of French doors. Step outside and into the garden where you can take in the coastal vistas from the comfort of the outdoor furniture.

Osea Island is custom-made for those visitors who love the tranquility and the stunning scenery of island life. You will have over five miles of private beaches to explore (some of which are right on your doorstep), while the island's location and lack of light pollution makes evening stargazing something stunning to behold. The island's pub, The Puffin, is open on Friday evenings for guests. Other amenities available on Osea include an outdoor swimming pool, cinema room, beach volleyball, a football pitch and a croquet lawn.