Blackbird

Let your cares sail dreamily away, aboard a romantic ‘floating suite' secluded on a freshwater lake (ideal for trout fishing) in North Devon, close to the moors and beaches.

Close to the border between Devon and Cornwall, Blackbird is the ideal retreat for a couple who love exploring coast and country at their most magnificent.

The former canal boat and boathouse are romantically secluded on a freshwater lake in the heart of North Devon, amongst beautiful countryside that's bordered by Exmoor, Dartmoor, and Bodmin Moor.  

If that wasn't enough, some of the area's loveliest beaches, including Bude, Sandymouth, and Widemouth Bay, can all be reached within a half-hour drive.

There's just one problem: you'll have to leave Blackbird first!  Elegantly restored for a soothing and distraction-free break, there's no TV or Wi-Fi here - though with those awe-inspiring tree-and-lake views, you won't need those.  

Curl up with a book by the crackling wood-burner instead, or simply giggle the evening away with your loved one, using the Bluetooth radio player to set the perfect background mood. By day, you'll find a pair of binoculars and some handy guides to help you identify the local wildlife.

The galley kitchen is well-equipped for romantic meals galore, with an electric oven and a microwave, and a built-in table for two.  Though if you prefer sizzling sunset suppers, there's also a barbecue and a secluded al fresco dining spot... in fact, why not linger outside with your evening tipples and do some stargazing, too?

When it's time to head back on board, the luxuriously dressed kingsize bed will ease you into a sound night's sleep, with shimmering lake views to look forward to as soon as you open your eyes, and a shower-room and loo right next door.

In the mood for a long, bubble-infused soak? Just follow the gangplank to your very own boudoir-bathhouse, equipped with a luxury William Holland slipper bath and high-end toiletries, gentle views across the lake, and a gorgeous waffle bathrobe to wrap yourself up in!

(See what we mean about leaving Blackbird potentially posing a problem?)

If you don't want to stray too far, there are 20 acres of newly planted woodland to meander through nearby. During the summer months, watch the butterflies and dragonflies flutter through the wildflowers, or just sit back, relax, and lose yourselves in the soothing soundtrack of nature.

Otherwise, get out and discover your unspoilt rural surroundings in all their glory... perhaps with a spot of surfing in the morning, hiking in the moors for the afternoon, then returning to catch yourselves a delicious fish supper on the lake by evening!  It is even possible to fish for trout in the lake, so you can catch your own dinner!

However you choose to while away your stay at Blackbird, you're sure to feel it's time memorably well spent.

Things to note

Check in/check out on Fridays or Mondays. 1-week minimum stay during peak periods, 3-4 night stays off-peak. Children and pets are regrettably not permitted. Please note that there is no TV or Wi-Fi, and limited mobile coverage.  NB there is a toilet on the boat and in the bath-house.