The cottage was even better than the positive reviews said - the quaintness that so many people referred to was so much better in real life. The kitchen was amazingly well equipped and we wanted for absolutely nothing (except maybe a coffee table in the lounge for our glasses/cups/phones). The cottage was spotlessly clean and we all said we would love to return for another break and how super it must be in summer (we were there in early January and the heating kept the cottage at a pleasant temperature.) Being close to Portsmouth we were able to do an easy day trip to the Isle of Wight. An easy stroll down the road from the cottage was the delightful Breezes Cafe where we had a delicious cream tea. This accommodation definitely deserves 5 * and Mel made the arrangements very easy for us.

We had a lovely stay. We loved the quirky sea side theme of the decor. It was very comfortable with everything we needed. The view is breathtaking and we loved watching it at different times of the day. The owners were very helpful and accommodating. We would definitely be looking to return in the future.

If you want a sea view with direct access to the beach this is for you charming place.

The cottage was excellent with everything you need for a great break. We really enjoyed our mini break and thanks to Mel for all her help in the last minute arrangements. Would definitely recommend to friends

This was my second visit to Cowes View and it was just like coming home. All the little quirky touches are really to my taste, and there is something interesting to look at in every room – even the shower room! I’ve never stayed anywhere that’s felt so personal and individual – obviously lots of people stay at the cottage but somehow it feels as if it’s your own little getaway. I live in London, which is great, but it is noisy and busy and at times stressful so being able to ‘escape to the seaside’ is wonderful. The amazing view is both uplifting and calming at the same time, while just up the road there’s a lovely pub and a very good café/shop which are usually bustling so you don’t ever feel that you’re too isolated – important for me as I stayed there on my own. The weather was amazing, the beach is beautiful, and my dog and I swam in the sea every day. Then it’s just a short walk back to the cottage to get dry, have a cold beer, and sit in the garden to watch the kite surfers and the sea and the sky and the world go by. Bliss!

View were great but some reservations about how it is managed.My late wife and i stayed for 4 nights seven years ago.Comments were passed to the owners about various plumbing issues being that loo,s did not flush properly.On this visit they are still a problem.On this visit the washing machine tripped the ring main so food was at risk of going off.The owner was informed but did not respond until later after i had located the incoming mains panel and reset it.No thanks were forthcoming after the event.Due to my mistake about changeover day we had to vacate sharply but was offered no compensation about losing 2 days holiday even though facilities were not used.My mistake, but it would have been nice if a rebate could be offererd.A welcom box would be nice and should be considered by the owners.The garden was overgrown the week we arrived but not tended during our visit until the day we hurriedly left due to my mistake but the gardener was Mellie,s husband who was aggressive on discussing our dispute.The booking document was altered by Mellie as to the changeover date but as i had signed for the departure was different from the Sunday departure we were expecting it left a sour taste.We do feel that another form should have been sent due it being a legal signed document.We hope the owners heed these comments

Mel was the best host, we arrived at night and were able to let ourselves in and get settled ; neztvday she was there to welcome . The cottages were the perfect location to cycle into the village and walk the dog on the beach every day ! Swimming was joy recommended at high tide as the wooden breakwater posts cause a hazard , but we were not swimming too cold ! We would love to have taken a canoe and gone out on the water but we could not find a craft to take out ! The weather was great and it is cooler on the beachfront obviously , but a sweater did not detour us from enjoying the view of Isle of Wight and walking . The beds were not very comfortable , and the shower downstairs is a wet room; so literally the whole bathroom gets flooded -- not the best. Especially with children; but everything else was superb, especially the neighbours! We would love to come back next summer , as the coastal location is so unique and relaxing ! It inspires art and creativity , and a home from Home . The quirky decor is so nautical and natural , quite unique , only big enough for 4 , 2 adults and 1-2 children . As long as you can deal with street parking Which is limited , and the shower you have a home from home ! Great Shangrala!

What a super cottage, warm and very cozy for a winter break. The views across the Solent are superb and ever changing. Even if you don't want to venture out on a rainy day the ever changing vista makes you feel you have travelled all the way along the Southern Coast.