We think winter gives the blues a bad name. This month’s Wanderlist features 30 places that will lull you into serenity with their ever-changing views – whether it’s the sun-sparkling on the Mediterranean or dusk hues falling over the Atlantic.
Get lost somewhere between land and sea on Italy’s tiniest island, soak up a bubble bath whilst overlooking the azure waters of Arcachon Bay and enjoy morning yoga classes on a sun soaked terrace with views of the expansive Algarve coast.
Margherita and her three siblings spent every summer of their childhood in this house overlooking the sea. It’s one of several houses set along a coastal road, but the lush gardens means it feels totally private. The villa is made for outdoor living; cool off in the saltwater swimming pool or sit on the shaded terrace and drift off to sound of the waves crashing on the below.
At 400 metres above sea level, there are wonderful views of the Cantabrian sea as you breakfast in the glass-fronted terrace and from all six bedrooms. Seasonal dinners with local produce and home-grown veg are served at separate tables looking over that view. Charming owner Tomás, who also cooks and gardens, makes sure couples wanting to rest, or see the sights, or walk for blissful miles are happy.
Two charming Belle Époque villas make up this lively, laid-back hotel. Each villa has eight rooms, some overlook St Malo’s promenade and the long sandy beach. Downstairs, the dining area has gorgeous views of the waterfront, making it the ideal setting for an evening sundowner. Hire bikes to explore St Malo, learn to surf in the waves and taste some of the freshest seafood you can find.
The Cary Arms is a chic little inn that hovers above Babbacombe Bay with views of sea and sky. Walls of glass frame the view, bedrooms look out to sea, bathrooms with walk-in showers are hard to beat. Best of all is your terrace, metres from crystal clear waters, with views that stretch for miles. The pub has six moorings in the bay, you can charter a boat and explore the coast or hire kayaks for fun on the water.
This simple, yet spectacular cabin has views across Loch Pooltiel to Dunvegan Head and the Outer Hebrides. Inside, the vast picture windows mean you can try to spot whales, dolphins, seals and puffins from every room. In summer, head out on windswept coastal walks or enjoy days on your private beach. Winter is all about lounging around the sitting room’s wood-burner and looking out for the aurora borealis (if the conditions are right!)
Grab a surfboard or a kite: this hotel kits you out to ride the waves if you can embrace the chill. It’s all about the views here, with walls of glass in The Living Space, a 25-metre infinity pool that gazes over the ocean, and a cliff-top hot tub. Whilst the beach is a great place to be in the summer sun, a blustery walk along the stormy Cornish waters will leave you feeling just as invigorated.
