owning a holiday home by the sea vs countryside
- ownership
More people are looking to invest in holiday home ownership as it offers the perfect balance of comfort, flexibility and lifestyle freedom.
Once you’ve decided ownership is right for you, the next big choice is location. Should you buy a coastal holiday home by the sea, or is a countryside holiday home the better fit for your lifestyle? Both offer incredible benefits, from scenic surroundings to strong long-term value for you and your loved ones. This guide explores the unique advantages of each setting to help you choose the holiday home that feels right for you.
why choose a coastal holiday home?
Owning a holiday home near the sea offers a lifestyle of dreams, with stunning scenery and family fun attractions for all ages to enjoy. From arcades to fairgrounds, the British coastal towns have something for everyone, hitting all the nostalgia along the way.
Whether you enjoy long coastal walks, sea air, or simply unwinding with a sea view, the seaside offers a naturally uplifting atmosphere. Discover morning wanderings on the beach and watching the sunset over the open sea, wither summer days building sandcastles and winter evening discoveries.
activities and attractions
There are so many activities and attractions just waiting for you and your loved ones to enjoy. The below activities make coastal holiday homes especially appealing for multi-generational families and active owners who love the outdoors. Coastal homeowners enjoy easy access to:
- Swimming, surfing, paddleboarding and sailing
- Bustling seaside towns with cafés, shops and attractions
- Scenic beach walks and coastal paths
- Family-friendly days out, from rock pooling to beach picnics
the coastal atmosphere
Discover the coasts vibrant and sociable surroundings, with a buzzing holiday energy throughout the warmer months. It’s ideal for owners who enjoy lively surroundings and a adventure around every corner.
best suited for:
- Families who love classic beach holidays
- Retirees seeking fresh coastal walks and breathtaking views
- Owners who enjoy water sports or coastal adventures
- Anyone who thrives in upbeat, lively environments
our coastal locations:
Darwin Escapes insight: At our Cornwall and North Wales coastal resorts, owners often tell us that waking up just footsteps from the beach is one of the greatest joys of holiday home ownership.
why choose a countryside holiday home?
If you dream of peace, privacy and open green landscapes, a countryside holiday homes could be your perfect getaway. The countryside offers a calming retreat, ideal for switching off from busy life.
Countryside home ownership is all about tranquillity and connection with nature. Picture peaceful morning coffees overlooking fields or mountains, gentle walks through woodland, and evenings spent in cosy rural pubs.
activities and attractions
You’ll discover endless activities and outdoor adventures with a countryside holiday home, or opt for a quitter and peaceful retreat, with a cosy log fire burner and stunning scenery. The below experiences make countryside holiday homes ideal for quieter escapes and year-round breaks. Countryside locations offer:
- Woodland and lakeside walks
- Cycling routes and hiking trails
- Wildlife spotting and nature reserves
- Picturesque market towns and local farm shops
- Space to relax and recharge
the countryside atmosphere
Life moves at a slower, more mindful pace. With less footfall and fewer tourist hotspots, many owners appreciate the calm, private environment. Spend winter days wandering the woodland trails, or enjoy summer mountain hikes with your loved ones, before relaxing in your very own home from home.
best suited for:
- Couples looking for peaceful romantic retreats
- Families who enjoy outdoor adventure
- Owners who value privacy and a slower pace
- Anyone who wants space to breathe and unwind
our countryside locations
Darwin Escapes insight: Our countryside resorts in North Wales and the Lake District offer the perfect blend of serenity and adventure, with breathtaking landscapes right on your doorstep.
three key factors to consider when choosing your location
1. distance
Think about how often you’ll visit your homes. A location closer to home makes last-minute weekends away far easier, whether that’s a coastal break or a countryside escape.
2. seasonality
Coastal areas tend to be livelier in summer and quieter in winter. Countryside destinations offer more consistent year-round appeal, with each season bringing its own charm.
3. lifestyle fit
Ask yourself:
- Do you prefer active days exploring beaches and coastal paths?
- Or do you love peaceful mornings, nature walks and quiet surroundings?
Your personal lifestyle is one of the biggest influences in choosing a location that feels right.
the best of both worlds
Not every decision has to be either/or. Some regions blend both settings beautifully — for example:
- Countryside resorts located just a short drive from the beach
- Woodland homes with easy access to coastal towns
- Rural settings offering elevated coastal or estuary views
Several Darwin Escapes resorts offer this ideal balance, giving you the freedom to enjoy beaches, forests and peaceful landscapes all within one location.
our best of both locations
Discover Darwin Escapes holiday home ownership and find the location that feels just right for you. We have a fabulous buyers’ guide to help you understand the whole process and don’t forget, we also offer flexible finance options at a number of our locations allowing you to spread the cost of your dream holiday home.
find out more about ownership