Description Great Breton: Saint-Malo

While the Mediterranean beaches in the south of France are constantly lauded, the ruggedly beautiful seaside spots at the top end of the country are underrated by comparison. If you want to see a splendid example of one such resort, this home in Sables-d'Or-les-Pins will convert almost anybody.

There's almost something quite rustic about the address, whether it's the large tree-filed garden surrounding the house or the pretty stone facade. Behind the front door, it's a little more contemporary than you might imagine, with the sort of stark white walls, smart wooden floors and sleek kitchen surfaces that wouldn't look out of place in a stylish city apartment. Saying that, the living room's large window and feature fireplace add a level of cosiness, although sadly the latter is only decorative.

Such is the humble size of the local town, the bulk of the attractions and conveniences are only a short walk away. The main beach is 1km, for instance, while there are tennis and golf facilities all of two minutes away on foot. In the centre of town, there's a small selection of restaurants and bars to tide you over during your visit.

Home truths:
*The home is spread over two floors with no elevator and both bedrooms are on the upper level
*Your host can provide a cot for free upon request, but no high chair
*There's space to park up to two cars at the front of the house