Modern beachside apartment in Bray-Dunes close to De Panne

We had a frustrating stay. Check-in was delayed by 40 minutes, and the apartment had no toiletries or dish soap. They offered breakfast at 9 a.m. as an apology, but it arrived at 10:30, just half an hour before the 11 a.m. checkout.

Everything was clean and all the facilities worked. We were happy with our stay and would book again if we came back at this time of year.

The apartment's position at the end of the seawall in Bray-Dunes gives it a breathtaking sea view. It's well equipped, but cramped for six adults, and the bunk beds suit children or teenagers better. Cleaning was a real problem: there was rubbish and a dirty spatula in the dishwasher, the fridge needed defrosting, pizza scraps were in the bin, and sand in the shower kept it from closing properly. Dirt and sand also made the curtain rods stick, and a coat hook was broken. We paid to rent the garage, but its door wouldn't close, and we couldn't find a free parking space. Spaces were occupied or reserved for other apartments, and we never even saw the spot we were meant to use. Our car was only 15 days old, and it was frustrating to pay for parking we couldn't use. We've stayed at Evancy properties three times; this was the first one that disappointed us so much. We hope the next stay is better, or we'll look for another kind of rental.

My husband and I loved staying here. The apartment was beautiful, the bed comfortable, and the view felt magical. I enjoy travelling in the off-season, and it was nice to have heating. We could cook and wash dishes by hand or use the dishwasher, and the spacious bathroom was a real bonus.