5
Simply sublime
The Safe House offers a peace and tranquility that is hard to find anywhere else so close to a major city, on our increasingly over-populated island.
The accommodation is simple, clean, well stocked and maintained but, this place is all about LOCATION.
As keen photographers, walkers and nature lovers, we were in our element. The land, sea and skyscapes were constantly changing with the transient light throughout the day and on a clear night you can see the Milky Way because there is so little light polution.
The beach offered almost complete solitude, just the sound of lapping waves on the shore and wading birds chatting to each other whilst they feed. We managed to pick up some bargains for my garden from the beach whilst beachcoming which, now act as a daily reminder of our stay at this very special place.
A couple of evenings, I sat on the deck (chairs and recliners in the shed) watching the sun go down and listening to all the sounds on the marshes all around. This kind of activity is best done with Champagne or fine wine, as the screen between the kitchen and living area bears testament to.
Having a car here is essential as its nearly two miles to the nearest shops in St. Osyth. The nearest supermarket is in Clacton some 5 miles away.
You need to be aware of the tide and tide times in the area. High tide is approximately 8 minutes later than at Harwich and on the bigger tides the Safe House is cut off from the mainland which, makes it even more exclusive. However, it can delay your exit for a while if you wish to go further afield.
A local ordanance survey map is useful to take full advantage of the local walks and inns/pubs on offer.
Eating out locally is a bit difficult (quality issues) but, Dukes in St. Osyth got the thumbs up otherwise you need to travel further afield.
There is a lot to do and see within an hours drive or so from the Safe House. We took fresh bread and a rather nice bottle of Chablis to the Company Shed on Mersea island and had a seafood platter which was sensational. We did trips to Colchester Castle, Casle Park and the natural history museum in Colchester, Beth Chatto gardens, Dedham, Finchingfield, Woodbridge, Orford Castle and Orford Ness and Bury St. Edmunds. All recommended!
If you enjoy hustle and bustle and lots of creature comforts this is NOT the place for you but, if you are after a simpler less cluttered existence look no further ... its simply sublime! 10/10
We will return ...
Helpful votes: 3/3
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