Culver Down Manor
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One of the Isle of Wight's most exceptional properties, Culver Down Manor is an elegant art-deco mansion overlooking Sandown Bay from a prime clifftop setting. ...
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One of the Isle of Wight's most exceptional properties, Culver Down Manor is an elegant art-deco mansion overlooking Sandown Bay from a prime clifftop setting. Built in the 1920's, this building maintains glorious original features, including huge shimmering garden water features, statues and stain glass windows that frame the striking coastal vistas reaching out to Culver Cliff.
As you step into the reception area you are instantly transported back in time, from the piano and ornamental period lampshades to the wooden panelling and even the old boot cleaner. The large entrance hall with grand staircase and beautiful stained glass windows is sure to impress guests upon entering the property. The living space offers an abundance of floor space, the magnificent 22 seater dining table and the grand lounge area are the perfect spaces for the whole group to gather and discuss the highlights of the day.
Culver Down Manor can comfortably accommodate up to fourteen guests and five additional children across its six beautifully appointed bedrooms.On the ground floor is the first of the bedrooms, an accessible room, it is ideal for any guests who struggle with mobility and features two twin single beds and a fully-accessible en-suite wet room. Upstairs are the remaining bedrooms, three king rooms, a cosy double and a family room with a king-size double and two single beds. For those in larger groups, the Morning Room can be set up as a seventh bedroom and features two single daybeds, ideally suited to older children.
Outside, the home is set within 3/4 of an acre of gardens and backs onto the coastal path with excellent sea views. The largest part of the garden is set behind the house and features a spectacular pond which dates back to the 1930's. The terrace comes complete with dining facilities and makes the perfect place to enjoy a spot of al fresco dining after an action-packed day spent exploring the Isle of Wight.
What you should know…
- Due to the age of the house, the bedrooms do not all have en-suite bathrooms however there are more than enough family bathrooms
- The many beautiful ponds and water features mean that small children should not be left to explore unsupervised
- It's about 70 steps to walk down the cliff to the beach (or a 600m walk down the cliff path)
This home is a part of our Sustainable Collection!
To be part of the collection, homes must meet a minimum of four criteria from our sustainable checklist, or three from the checklist and have a daily carbon footprint of 5kg or lower, based on full occupancy per bedroom. View the full collection here >
This home meets the following criteria from our sustainable checklist:
- Supports the local community (locally owned)
- Supports the local community (promotes local businesses)
- Committed to Renewable and Green Energy
- Promotes Sustainable Living (Recycling)
Property Features
Ground Floor
- Magnificent drawing room
- Fully-equipped kitchen with 3 independent ovens, a gas hob, two dishwashers, American-style fridge freezer and breakfast dining facilities
- Formal dining room with seating for 18 guests
- Accessible bedroom with two 1930's French single beds and wet room with shower seat and grip handles
- Morning room/ bedroom 7 with two single day beds
First Floor
- Master bedroom suite with king-size bed, living area, sea views and access to the sun room
- Bedroom with king-size bed and access to the sun room
- Family bedroom with king-size bed and two additional single beds (one of which pulls out to make either a super-king bed or twin beds) and access to the sun room
- Bedroom with king-size bed, additional single bed and en-suite shower room
- Bedroom with 1930's oak double bed
- Three family bathrooms
Exterior Grounds
- 3/4 of an acre of gardens
- 1930's original feature pond
- Dining facilities
Additional Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Freeview TV
- SONOS sound system in the drawing & dining rooms
- Hairdryer
- Washing machine
- Iron & board
- Child's highchair available on request
- Parking for 10 cars
Little Sustainability Gems About the Property
In 2020 the owners introduced 'Green at Greentiles' (Greentiles was the original name for the property) in an effort to become more eco-friendly. This included changing all light bulbs to low energy, increasing their emphasis on recycling, and has their own waste certificate.
Please note: There is limited flexibility to change the bed arrangements. Please enquire should you have any questions regarding layout.
Location
About the surrounding area of Culver Down ManorCulver Down Manor is located about a mile from the town of Shanklin, where the Isle of Wight railway terminates. We have ample parking for 6 cars, but you can also come on foot, catching the train from Waterloo, London to Portsmouth Harbour, getting the Cat over and then the Island Train (a 1930's Central Line tube train...honestly!). Get an inclusive ticket!
The Isle of Wight is like going back to 1950's England, the pace is slower, and the pubs are wonderful. We have provided a large secure outhouse for devoted cyclists, although you can hire a bike locally very easily. There is a golf club about 5 miles away, but you might get distracted by the pubs on the way back.
From the house, there are wonderful cliff top walks (or runs), and you are right above the Blue Flag beach (actually it is a lot of steps to get down, perfect for walking off the dinner). There are lots of cycle routes across the island. Of course there are many local attractions, but bring a book, sit in the sunroom and enjoy the 3/4 acre gardens and spectacular views over the bay.
The whole of the Isle of Wight awaits you.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Bournemouth and Southampton
(26-30 km) |
||
| Nearest Ferry Port |
Fishbourne
(15 km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Shanklin or Lake
(2 km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Shanklin
(2 km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Shanklin
(2 km) |
||
| Nearest Bar/Pub |
Numerous
(1 km) |
||
| Nearest Shop | 500 yards to CoOp | ||
| Nearest Beach | 100 Yards | ||
Region
Luxury self-catering holiday accommodation in the Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight, a charming diamond-shaped island nestled in the English Channel, is a haven of natural beauty and rich history. If you are on the lookout for an extraordinary getaway, why not check out Oliver’s Travels' exceptional properties on this gem of an island?
Let us dive into the wonders of the Isle of Wight. Osborne House, the former summer hangout of Queen Victoria herself, is a palatial paradise, surrounded by lush gardens and overlooking the Solent. You will feel like royalty as you wander through opulent state rooms, frolic in terraced gardens and catch a glimpse of the exclusive beach where the royal family used to hang out. The Needles, three chalk stacks doing a dramatic rise from the sea at the western tip of the island, will catch your attention. Needles Park is your gateway to breathtaking panoramic views, a chairlift ride down to Alum Bay and a chance to ogle at the iconic lighthouse. The multi-coloured sands of Alum Bay are amazing and little ones love crafting their own sand souvenir! Talk about a DIY beach day!
The Isle of Wight's capital, Newport, is where history meets modernity in a vibrant collision of awesomeness. You can explore Carisbrooke Castle, a medieval fortress with well-preserved rooms, including the bedchamber of Charles I during his imprisonment. Newport's streets are buzzing with shops, cafes and pubs, creating a wonderful atmosphere. The annual Isle of Wight Festival at Seaclose Park in Newport is a cultural explosion, drawing crowds from far and wide. Renowned artists and bands make this festival an unmissable highlight on the island's calendar.
Ryde is a Victorian seaside dream that captures the heart of traditional British coastal charm. Sandy beaches, an iconic pier and a charming esplanade make Ryde the ideal spot for a leisurely stroll. The annual Ryde Carnival is a lively extravaganza with vibrant floats, music and a procession that is a party on the move. If tranquility is more your vibe, you can head over to Godshill, a peaceful village with thatched-roof cottages, charming tea rooms and a medieval church that set the stage for a tranquil escape. The Model Village, a 1/10th scale replica of Godshill, offers a unique perspective on the area's architecture.
The Isle of Wight boasts diverse landscapes, from the rolling hills of Tennyson Down to the lush woodlands of Shanklin Chine. You can walk or cycle your heart out on the island's crisscrossing trails, exploring its natural beauty up close. Compton Bay, with its fossil-rich cliffs, is a magnet for beachcombers and fossil hunters alike.
So, whether you are a history buff, an adrenaline junkie or just in need of some serious relaxation, the Isle of Wight has your back.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesCulver Down Manor makes an excellent choice for families travelling with children, a number of the rooms can be set up as family rooms with additional single beds, ideal for those with small children. A child's highchair can be provided on request for the little ones while the high-speed internet will keep the older children entertained in the evenings.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Beach Nearby
- Walk to Beach
- Walk to Village
- Walk to Restaurant
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
Onsite Facilities
- Indoor Games
- DVD
Extras
Catering @ Culver Down Manor
The owners have a selection of approved caterers who they would be happy to recommend and put you in touch with. For fine dining, the owners recommend budgeting approximately £70 per head, per meal, however this will vary depending on menu. Please enquire for sample menus and further information. The owners can also help to arrange freshly prepared meals which can be delivered to the house.
If you have preferred suppliers who are not on the owners approved list, please enquire, they do not mind, as long as they know in advance and they comply with their safety and insurance pre-requisites. All contracts with third party suppliers are always between you and them and while the owners are able to suggest suppliers they unfortunately cannot take any responsibility for their services.
Magnums of Champagne and Fine Wines
Joint owner, Sharon has for years handled fine wines and is rather an expert on Champagne and is delighted to offer her personally selected (and deliberately limited) selection for you to pre-order to be ready on your arrival. Please enquire for further pricing information.
At Oliver’s Travels, we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to travel services, we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team, who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
- Maid service/extra cleaning
- Private chef/cook/catering
- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team.
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!
| Security deposit | £750 charged to the client's credit card as a pre-authorisation at least 2 weeks prior to arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to a full inspection |
| Arrival time | 4pm |
| Departure time | 10am. Late check-out will result in a deduction of £100 per hour from the damage deposit. However, for weekend bookings a Sunday checkout can be 16:00 at no extra cost. Please enquire at time of booking. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | £750 charged to the client's credit card as a pre-authorisation at least 2 weeks prior to arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to a full inspection |
| Arrival time | 4pm |
| Departure time | 10am. Late check-out will result in a deduction of £100 per hour from the damage deposit. However, for weekend bookings a Sunday checkout can be 16:00 at no extra cost. Please enquire at time of booking. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes, included in the rental price |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes, included in the rental price. Please bring your own beach towels. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes, included in the rental price. Please leave the home in the tidy condition you found it or the cost of additional cleaning will be deducted from your damage deposit. |
| Internet access? | Yes, Wi-Fi is included in the rental price |
| Pets welcome? | One well-trained dog may be allowed on request basis at the property owners discretion. Please ensure that you request at the time of booking. |
| Smoking Allowed? | No smoking |
| Changeover day | Changeover day is Friday, or Saturday during off-peak seasons. |
| Minimum stay | Please note that there is a 3-night minimum stay, this may be increased to 7-nights across peak periods |
| Other Ts and Cs | Please note that external caterers are NOT permitted without prior written consent and a surcharge may be levied for this. The property owners can assist in finding an approved caterer for your stay. |
| Other 2 | No stag or hen do's permitted. The home is situated in a residential area and so please be respectful and limit outdoor noise in the evenings. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 14 people:
| Rental period | 2 Nights | 3 Nights | 4 Nights | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 23rd 2024 - Dec 27th 2024 | - | - | - | - | £8,062 |
| Dec 27th 2024 - Jan 3rd 2025 | - | - | - | - | £7,524 |
| Jan 3rd 2025 - Feb 7th 2025 | £2,902 | £3,224 | £3,547 | £3,869 | £3,869 |
| Feb 7th 2025 - Feb 21st 2025 | - | - | - | - | £7,955 |
| Feb 21st 2025 - Apr 4th 2025 | £3,762 | £4,299 | £4,837 | £5,374 | £5,374 |
| Apr 4th 2025 - Apr 25th 2025 | - | - | - | - | £7,524 |
| Apr 25th 2025 - May 23rd 2025 | £3,762 | £4,299 | £4,837 | £5,374 | £5,374 |
| May 23rd 2025 - May 30th 2025 | - | - | - | - | £8,277 |
| May 30th 2025 - Jul 11th 2025 | £4,514 | £5,052 | £5,589 | £6,127 | £6,449 |
| Jul 11th 2025 - Sep 5th 2025 | - | - | - | - | £9,889 |
| Sep 5th 2025 - Oct 24th 2025 | £5,267 | £5,804 | £6,342 | £6,879 | £7,524 |
| Oct 24th 2025 - Oct 31st 2025 | - | - | - | - | £8,277 |
| Oct 31st 2025 - Dec 20th 2025 | £3,224 | £3,547 | £3,869 | £4,192 | £5,374 |
| Dec 20th 2025 - Dec 29th 2025 | - | - | - | - | £8,599 |
| Dec 29th 2025 - Jun 26th 2026 | - | - | - | - | £7,524 |
Please note that these prices/rates are a guide only and may not be correct at the current date. For an accurate quote, please enquire.
Owner name
Laurence and Sharon
How long have you owned the property?
Under 1 year
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
This property...
Owner Profile
Owner name
Laurence and Sharon
How long have you owned the property?
Under 1 year
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
This property was bought because we love it, we love the architecture and we love the design. Each year we will introduce more and more Art-Deco 1930's features including more Art-Deco furnishings. Our goal over the next five years is to make this property one of the leading Art Deco houses in the UK. Uniquely, our business plan is that any profits we make from this house will be reinvested in the house, upgrading it continually.
Are there any interesting stories in its history?
It would appear that the most influential owners of the House, were the colourful local characters H(orace) Terry Wood and his wife Sadie, who purchased the house and lived and partied there for many years from the 1930's They were responsible for installing the distinctive Art Deco pond and garden design, as these did not previously exist as evidenced by the 1933 particulars of sale. Sadie also installed on brick patio on the lawn facing the sea, two statues of the Great Dane dogs she had been raised with. H Terry Wood owned the Shanklin brewery, several hotels on the island (including the Holliers) and most significantly, Shanklin Pier housing Shanklin Casino and concert theatre which hosted many evening entertainment events. It is documented in several books that the Terry Woods hosted many after-show parties at their home, entertaining stars of the time such as Arthur Askey, Jimmy Tarbuck and Tommy Trinder.
Have you ever had any famous guests staying?
Arthur Askey, Jimmy Tarbuck and Tommy Trinder. (before our time!)
For anyone coming to stay is there anything in the surrounding area they should...
Really do? The Coastal Walk, from the bottom of our garden, and incredibly all round the Island!
Really eat? Fresh locally caught fish in the many restaurants and fish and chip shops on the Island
Really see? The many antique shops everywhere, and of course Queen Victoria's Osborne House
Lastly, what insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?
Check out MattAndCat online as they seem to have reviewed every pub, every restaurant, in fact EVERYTHING on the Isle of Wight.
Reviews
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Magnificent art deco house
We are a multi-generational family (13 people ranging from 2-70) celebrating a special birthday. The house was perfect for us all with plenty of bedroom and living space and a lovely big dining table. The bathrooms worked even well even thought not ensuite. Loads of hot water, crockery, glasses, etc. we all slept upstairs and didn't need to use the downstairs bedroom. The gardens and outdoor space were fabulous, we just needed better weather. The location is excellent, there is a locked gate straight onto the cliff path with a very popular cafe metres away and steps down to the beach (quite steep return). The owners and manager were extremely helpful. Would wholeheartedly recommend.
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One of a kind
Excellent House. Brilliant Location. 5* Amenities. The owners have put so much attention to detail in this house. The aesthetics are impecable.
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Wonderful
A wonderful house, exactly as it appears in the photos , and a beautiful garden. Superb situation.
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Absolutely perfect
We absolutely loved our stay at Culver Down Manor. The property is stunning, everywhere you look there is something else to look at, you can tell the property is well looked after, it was perfect to hold our small wedding, our family loved staying here, we’ve made some extremely precious memories in this house and we would all love to return again one day, and the gifts upon arrival were lovely, very kind, thank you so much, will be recommending Culver Down Manor to everyone!!
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Wonderful place
Wonderful place, beautiful house, this house has everything for a comfortable stay. The owner of the house was very friendly and ready to help.
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Wonderful place
Wonderful place, beautiful house, this house has everything for a comfortable stay. The owner of the house was very friendly and ready to help.
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Fab-u-lous !
The Culver Down Manor exceeded all of our expectations. From the moment we were warmly met and shown around by the lovely house manager Sara, until the moment we regretfully closed the door for the last time, behind us, we had the most amazing weekend. The house is beautiful and spotlessly clean. It is evident that so much care and attention to detail of this period property has been made by the owners Laurence and Sharon. There is a wide choice of stunning bedrooms. I can certainly recommend bedroom 4 with en-suite facilities and panoramic views of the garden and the sea beyond. Everyone commented about how comfortable the beds were. You will be equally amazed by the communal facilities of the drawing room, dinning room and kitchen. I have never seen such beautiful stained glass windows in a house before. We were lucky enough with the weather to sit out and appreciate all that the garden has to offer. Without doubt our stay at the Culver Down Manor has created such wonderful memories I don’t think anyone in our party will ever forget. If only I could give it more than 5 stars I would.
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Beautifully furnished, comfortable sleeping, magical stained glass windows
A house full of the 1920's but a 21st century experience. Beautifully furnished, comfortable sleeping, magical stained glass windows and a classic large private garden. We were 17 with 3 of us fanatical cooks and although the kitchen surfaces need some updating the facilities were ideal and the kitchen well equipped. Given the plethora of art deco ornaments, decorative items and original antique furniture this may not be the ideal place for boisterous children but for well behaved families it makes for the perfect large family/friends holiday. Recommended day out is Osbourne house, gardens and beach - not sure the bottles of Mead are worth it though!
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Transport yourself back to the luxurious world of the 1930’s in Culver Down Manor.
We were fortunate to be the first guests of the year in the unbelievably beautiful Culver Down Manor. Just could not get over the attention to detail and the authenticity. Ever comfort is provided, stunning views from the gardens of the coast and the island. Then to top it all we had fantastic sunshine all weekend. Lovely walks and also took the train/ bus to Bembridge. Saw red squirrels in Borthwood Copse. A perfect long weekend.
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Games around the dining room table
Our second stay here and just as lovely. Games around the dining room table in the evenings were a particular highlight, as was our family game of human Cluedo around the house, Thank you
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Excellent
Excellent location and a spacious well designed house.
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Best holiday ever!
This year we wanted somewhere special to celebrate a Diamond Wedding Anniversary and we found it. It is a lovely house in a spectacular situation. We found it. It is very spacious and well equipped. Just what we wanted. We have been having family holidays in various parts of the country for many years but this was the best ever.
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Happy memories!
There were 3 generations of the family staying. 13 in total. Very well equipped and more glasses than most pubs have. Only slight downside is that en suite was not in vogue when the property was built. There are however enough bathrooms to allocate one to each bedroom, so only a very minor problem. It is definitely in a much better condition that all other placed that I have stayed in and it is obvious that it is also the home of the owners. It was very cold when we were there, but the heating system was up to it. The Hidaway bar and restaurant is a 5 minute walk from the back gate and is open for breakfast. So no need to do too much cooking. We all enjoyed ourselves, and have happy memories of Grandads 70th Birtday treat for the family.
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Stunning house, memorable holiday
We had a fantastic stay at Culver Down Manor - definitely the most beautiful house I've hired. All our guests were delighted with the house and we had a memorable holiday there.
Probably not suitable for families with small children as we had to be very careful not to put glasses on the polished antique furniture without coasters - perhaps the owners should install some glass table tops so that the guests can relax a bit more! -
Quite stunning accommodation and grounds
A quite wonderful art deco house, very clean and extremely well equipped. Beds and bedding were excellent for a good nights sleep for all 13 of us. The weather during our visit was good, so we enjoyed use of the barbeque, and the extensive garden provided ample space for the children to run around and hide, and for playing organised games. Views over the sea from the house were memorable. The house is extremely well situated, being just a few minutes walk to Shanklin, and a little further, but still an easy walk, to Sandown. A walk down steps/slope give you immediate access to the vast sandy beaches between these resorts. The train station at Shanklin was only 8 minutes walk away. The Hideaway restaraunt/bar on the clifftop path is only minutes away on foot, and provided a good alternative to home cooking, or just a place to visit for a drink while watching the wonderful views. Overall this was one of the best holiday accommodations that we've had, and certainly excellent value for the money.
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A real privilege
When I was looking for somewhere to have my sixtieth birthday celebration, I came across this house, and from the description seemed perfect, but just too good to be true. But I can now say that not only did it live up to expectations, but amazingly exceeded them. The setting is stunning, in beautiful grounds on the the clifftop, but it is the house itself that is the star. Big light and airy rooms, with wonderful furnishings and fittings and decor, all in keeping with the Art Deco theme, made you feel you had stepped back into a bygone age. It felt a real privilege to be staying there, and trusted with this amazing place. The big dining room was a perfect setting for my birthday dinner, and the kitchen had everything you could possibly want to prepare and serve the meal. The owner was very helpful and responsive, and on his recommendation we had food for the meal supplied by Deli Tramezzini, which was great, and a cake from Wight Vintage, which was also wonderful. So it was very memorable weekend for us all, topped off by the lovely warm and sunny weather the whole time.
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Absolutely Amazing!!
There are not words to describe quite how fantastic the Culver Down Manor really is. It happily accommodated our party of 17 and is truly a beautiful house. It was completely spotless and a very thoughtful welcome pack was left with some very yummy treats for us. Thank you Laurence and Sharon for allowing us to stay in your wonderful house...we will be back!
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Wonderful, Blissful
A 60th birthday getaway. House was warm and immaculate. All the equipment you could ever need in the kitchen. Fabulous welcome pack with wine and local products. Easy access to costal walks and shop 5 mins away. Beautifully and sympathetically done, the Deco age comes to life! The housekeeper sent my forgotten clothes back (doh!) and was very helpful on all fronts. We stayed in a lot. Why leave??? Blissful.
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Beautiful authentic Art Deco Property
Beautiful , authentic Art Deco property. Fabulous place to relax by the sea and dream of days of old. Stunning views from garden and sea facing bedrooms. A great experience for friends and family.
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Amazing Art Deco Residence
Amazing that a property like this is available to hire – stunning sea views from all front windows and the incredible landscaped garden. The owners clearly have a love of Art Deco with attention to detail and extra home comforts – you’ll never want to leave!
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
