Blue Bay House

The owners were nice people, and the house looks fantastic at first glance, but it was a letdown for the money. The hot tub only worked on the first day and wasn’t checked during our stay, even though the owner lives next door. There were several problems inside: poor water pressure, freezing showers, leaky sinks and plaster coming down over one shower. The kitchen floor was uneven enough to trip the kids, and the Wi-Fi kept disconnecting after about five minutes and needs renewing. I expected luxury, but the house needs a lot of work.

The bay view and location were the best parts, and the owners had made an effort with a Christmas tree and decorations in the main house. We booked through Beach Retreats for Christmas 2019, for 15 adults and children. One thing families should know is that only four bedrooms open off the main house. The other five are in annexes reached through the outside courtyard, which might not suit families with young kids. The main living and kitchen areas were good and well equipped, but cleanliness was a problem. We found rubbish under a bed and a half empty coffee cup behind a curtain. Two bathrooms in the main house were very well fitted and newly appointed. Some of the other en suites couldn’t really be used because of water damage, no heating, a broken shower, mould, or, in the downstairs bedroom, a filthy and dilapidated state. Some rooms had no wardrobes or storage. Where there was furniture, it was 1940s vintage and beyond redemption. The description saying it was redeveloped for 2019 was, to put it kindly, a wild exaggeration. The second star is for the view and location.

The house is nice and in a perfect spot, though it’s a little worn from use. The phone signal and Wi-Fi could be better.

The owners were delightful, and the accommodation and location were amazing. It’s been newly refurbished to an exceptionally high standard. Highly recommend.