KENTSTAYCATION
When venturing further west along the coast , explorers will come across an altogether different , but just as remarkable and beautiful stretch of Kent ’ s coastline . This takes formation in the pebble shores of Pegwell and Sandwich Bay ; Kent Wildlife Trust ’ s largest stretch of nature reserve . If you are craving a peaceful and serene day of relaxation on what comes closest to your own private beach then this serene saltmarsh is your answer . For those wanting to explore this area and see its wildlife up close , take a tour with Dover Sea Safari , a boat that will show you the seal colonies , the eerie Goodwin Sands and the iconic White Cliffs of Dover . Known appropriately as White Cliffs Country , this stretch of coastline is more sedate than the golden beaches of Thanet , instead offering rugged and wild countryside , cliff top walks , rare wildlife species and dramatic views over ocean vistas .
For those wanting to explore this area , staying in the pretty village of Kingsdown , complete with its own quiet beach , is your answer . Victory Cottage ,
available through www . keeperscottages . co . uk , has been recently renovated to create a wonderfully stylish and spacious coastal retreat right on the beach . Many of the rooms have stunning sea views , with a garden and first-floor balcony that allow guests to truly enjoy the sights and sounds of this coastal setting . The large open-plan kitchen and dining room is perfect for socialising with friends and family , whereas the upstairs sitting room with access to the balcony is another lovely space that brings the outside setting inside . Four bedrooms , two bathrooms , a second balcony and a small sunny courtyard are yet more features of the cottage . Victory Cottage is next
to The Zetland Arms , a highly acclaimed beachfront pub , as well as the vibrant town of Deal . In the other direction , find the breathtaking walk along white chalk cliffs to St Margaret ’ s Bay , which is home to Britain ’ s closest pub to France : The Coastguard .
At the opposite end of these iconic White Cliffs , perched at great height between Dover and Folkestone in Capel Le Ferne , is Abbots Cliff House , the ideal holiday home for exploring Kent ’ s Heritage Coast . Perhaps taking the crown for holiday home with the most awe-inspiring scenery in Kent , Abbots Cliff House is a luxurious retreat from which to enjoy cliff top views of the glimmering sea out beyond . Spacious rooms complete with original period features combined with plush furnishings make this an indulgent stay . Each bedroom boasts a uniquely decorated bathroom , strategically positioned to take advantage of the majestic vistas and certain to make your bathing rituals an experience like no other . Enjoy a glass of Kentish fizz in the cliff top hot tub on warmer nights and , during the day , venture to nearby Folkestone to take advantage of its thriving arts and food scene - including the ultimate summer destination that is the Harbour Arm .
As we travel even further west along the coast from Folkestone , beach hunters will soon find themselves in Dungeness before reaching our border county of Sussex . Lying at the southernmost point of the county , this fascinatingly weird and wild seascape consists of a shingle beach teeming with wildlife . Its stunning strangeness is heightened all the more by
the converted WW2 buildings , fishermen ' s huts and lighthouses that stand like chess pieces upon its diverse landscape . One such retreat is Sunray , available through www . bloomstays . com , Dungeness ’ s closest property to the sea . This unassuming white cottage has a secret to tell on the inside . Jaw-dropping urban meets retro vintage styling has been weaved around a magnificent original railway carriage that to first impression appears to be passing through the middle of the building from the lounge into the master bedroom - almost as though you are looking into a moment caught in time . A truly fascinating architectural design to behold and one that will stay with you for life . Sunray ’ s surreal surroundings are also home to a vast amount of rare plant and animal species that visitors might glimpse as they walk the wooden boardwalk or as they crunch upon the flint shingle down to the shore . Nature and unusual scenery go hand-in-hand with the dreamlike casting of light in this environment , and although somewhat otherworldly , you will still find a sense of community and some great places to eat . This includes seafront pub , The Pilot Inn , perfect for traditional fish and chips by the sea .
VICTORY COTTAGE SUNRAY DOVER SEA SAFARI
ABBOTS CLIFF HOUSE
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