Little Sailings, Gurnard, Isle of Wight

For various I had reservations about booking this house. Perhaps it was the article I read about fake listings on holiday home websites, that made me think too much... perhaps seeds of doubt were fueled by the images of Little Sailings on Holiday Letting website which were taken when the owners lived in the house, and not recently. Also there were no reviews, Facebook or Twitter pages or an independent website...

In the end, I risked it and paid by bank transfer.

So, you can imagine my relief when we arrived and everything was as it should be. Relief was soon lost to delight. Arriving to catch the last of the evening sunshine, we realised just how wonderful the house and location were. It was perfect.

The images on the website do not do it justice. The house is an eco house, exceptionally well designed to make the most of the space, light and views. Put very simply, I want to live here.

On arrival we had fresh flowers on the table, milk in the fridge, good quality fresh coffee and a box of Twinning tea. Even some locally made soap and luxury bath items. Little things like that do mean something. It's welcoming and a kind gesture that shows they have considered your needs when you arrive.

Throughout our stay the owners, who live next door, were discreet but helpful when needed. Even though the two properties either side are close by, we still felt we could find peace and quiet and some privacy, in the wonderful garden. With the garden opening straight onto the pebbly beach, we really didn't feel much need to adventure too far, it really was a peaceful haven.

The house was well loved and cared for and provided all we needed. The bed was comfy with fresh white linen, a fantastic deep free standing bath that allowed me to watch boats sail by, a well equipped kitchen and all spotlessly clean...

We will be back!