Strandeen B&B

Overlooking Portstewart Strand and the Atlantic Ocean, Debbie Blaney’s friendly B&B in Portstewart is within easy walking distance of both the town and the famously sandy beaches, and it would make a very comfortable and homely base for golfing or walking, a family holiday, or just exploring this beautiful area.

The house has been in Debbie’s family for a long time, but she has completely refurbished it recently. She’s done a lovely job and, while every room still has its special character, it’s all smart enough to please the pickiest of guests.

The rooms – some with sea views, and one on the ground floor - have a fresh contemporary feeling, but there’s also a comfortingly traditional quality about the furnishings, which have been well chosen. Everyone appreciates the comfort of proper feather pillows, Egyptian cotton bed linens, luxury thick white towels, robes and slippers – and the lovely L'Occitane toileteries in the freshly decorated bathrooms.

In-room facilities include tea/coffee tray, ironing facilities, hair dryer and flat screen digital TV, ipod dock and WiFi. There’s even an alarm clock - and plenty to read too, including a useful information pack.

But the chances are that guests won’t spend too much time in their room as the welcoming big sitting room is the heart of the house, with plenty of comfy seating, picture windows over the bay and a real fire.

Guests can relax here while enjoying Debbie’s afternoon tea and, although the views are most dramatic in fine weather, it’s a lovely cosy spot to come back to on a wet day.

Most importantly, Debbie is a real can-do host and obviously enjoys spoiling her guests. As well as offering a good Northern Irish breakfast, including wheaten bread warm from the Aga, picnic lunches can also be arranged – perfect for golfers and walkers, or just a day on the beach.