Bedroom details
2 Bedrooms (Sleeps 4 + cot)
Bedroom 2
1 x zip and link
Step into a storybook at our darling thatched cottage, set deep in the West Sussex countryside. Bedecked in thatch, climbing roses and with golden stone walls and traditional windows, Olea is picture-perfect both inside and out, with interiors to match its exterior beauty. Embracing rustic cottage living with modern luxuries, this characterful dog friendly homestay with open plan living area sleeps up to four, making it a dream for couples and families alike. Set in the pretty village of Amberley, Olea is less than two hours from London and perfectly positioned to explore this beautifully picturesque county. From here it's a short distance from Goodwood, Arundel, the South Downs National Park and fabulous beaches such as the Witterings and Littlehampton West Beach. Featured by Country Living Online, our fairytale escape is the dreamiest retreat for those seeking a dose of old-world charm...
Living
Exuding timeless beauty, the living room is a heavenly space to relax, with exposed brick and stone walls, a vaulted ceiling, brushed wooden flooring and a large chandelier. Centred around a charming wood burner, you'll find a plush velvet sofa in shades of mustard, accompanied by a snug sage green love seat and an antique bench seat. Brimming with antiques and collectables, this is a gorgeous space that's also home to a record player with records, a digital radio, smart speaker and a smart TV for endless entertainment.
Eating
Steps lead up to the quintessentially charming English kitchen, where Kilner jars and collectables line the walls, and bespoke cupboards contain everything you'll need to prepare tantalising feasts. With stone floors and tiled walls, there are all the essentials such as the Stoves oven with induction hob, dishwasher, fridge with ice box and washer-dryer, whilst a Nespresso Vertuo coffee machine is on hand for the perfect morning pick-me-up. This room has a lovely skylight above, making it a bright room for prepping meals.
The kitchen comes complete with antique oak rectory table, chairs, and a 17th century monk's bench for dining. This atmospheric space is oak framed with huge windows so offers plenty of light and leads out into the courtyard garden - perfect for leaving open on balmy summer nights.
Sleeping and bathing
There are two stunning bedrooms at Olea.
The master bedroom on the ground floor is sheer perfection; with exposed brick and stone walls, tones of cream and dusty pinks and a sumptuous king-sized bed, you'll not find a more fairytale room to fall asleep in. With lustrous artwork and twinkling lights, every detail has been carefully curated. A chest of drawers and hanging space provide opportunity to stow away belongings.
The second bedroom, set on the mezzanine level, is equally beautiful. With semi-vaulted ceiling and exposed beams, the bed is a zip-and-link, meaning it can be made up as twin beds or a king, depending on your party requirements. In soothing tones throughout and with a pretty window seat, a chest is provided for storing belongings. Please note that this is a bijou bedroom, with eaves and curtain rather than a door, perfect for little ones or a second couple staying a night or two.
The family bathroom is set on the ground floor next to the master bedroom. Decorated both in tiles and exposed brick and stone with rustic fixtures and fittings, this lovely room has a roll top bath with shower overhead. Underfloor heating a custom-built radiator promise year-round cosiness.
Outdoor space
A courtyard garden enchants for dreamy alfresco dining beneath a leafy arbour, with planters, troughs and climbing foliage at every turn. You'll find a table and chairs plus two garden benches for admiring verdant vistas and soaking up the afternoon sun. Once twilight descends, pretty lights imbue a magical feel making the garden a delightful spot for evening drinks.
Parking
On street parking is available to the front of the cottage.
Babies and children
Olea welcomes babies and children.
Olea has charming original features, including a wood burning stove and an open tread staircase which leads to a mezzanine balcony-level bedroom set high above the living room, and therefore it may be unsuitable for younger children.
Dogs
Up to two well-behaved dogs are most welcome. Two bowls and dog towels are provided. Please note, there is an additional fee per dog, per week or short break.
In the Area
Situated in the pretty Sussex village of Amberley, there are a plethora of beautiful walks on your doorstep. Behind Olea, you'll find bridleways and footpaths that lead straight onto the downs, perfect for walking, cycling or horse riding. Just two minutes from Olea by foot, you'll find the grade two Black Horse, a charming pub with a heavenly supper menu. Amberley Castle is well worth visiting for exceptional cuisine served in a magnificent 900-year-old castle. A short distance by car, you'll find The Pig in the South Downs with its renowned 25-mile menu. For places to visit, there is horse racing at Goodwood Estate, polo at Cowdray Park in Midhurst, and the castles at Amberley and Arundel are well worth visiting. Arundel also has a beautiful cathedral, a 10-day Festival of the Arts, plus renowned antique shops and a farmers' market. For sun-soaked days by the shore, look no further than the Witterings, Littlehampton West Beach, Climping and Pagham Harbour. For an afternoon of wine tasting, there are also three excellent vineyards nearby - Wiston, Nyetimber and Bolney. The extraordinary Knepp Rewilding Project is nearby for wildlife safaris. History enthusiasts will find the Roman villa in Bignor Estate fascinating, and you can also hire boats and paddle boards on the River Arun - be prepared to be stunned by the scenery at every turn.
