1 The Bay

Dotted with beach huts and ringed with wildlife-rich dunes and grassland, the horseshoe-shaped Coldingham Bay is one of the most picturesque beaches in southern Scotland. Only a smattering of homes pepper the grassy slopes above the kilometre-long white sand beach, amongst them the pair of strikingly contemporary Bay Villas.

With sweeping views over the bay and ocean beyond it, the Villas are set back far enough from the water’s edge to allow you to take in the dramatic coastline while being near enough to go for an early morning swim and stroll on the sand.

Number 1 The Bay is one of two coveted ground-floor garden apartments in this acclaimed new property. As you would expect from its slick, angular exteriors, the apartment is the very epitome of contemporary, minimalist living. Virtually the entire sea-facing wall of this stylish property is made up of full-height sliding glass doors that open onto the garden, enabling the light and sea breeze to flow in through its open plan living space and two double bedrooms.

No expense or detail has been spared in this luxurious beach pad: the high-gloss white kitchen features state-of-the-art integrated appliances; a simple dining table is complemented by acid yellow Kartell Masters dining chairs, designed by Philippe Starck; and a sumptuous velvet corner sofa capitalises on the ever-changing sea views. The pared-back design of the living area is continued in the two double bedrooms, one of which features a small dressing room and en suite bathroom with a walk-in shower, with just a few pieces of contemporary art and furniture completing the minimalist effect.

A separate bathroom, which shares the hotel-worthy monochrome design of the master bedroom’s en suite, is set directly opposite the second bedroom and features a bath with shower over. Finally, a handy utility room keeps washing and drying appliances out of sight and mind.

While you’re not indulging your inner Kevin Mcloud and cooing over The Bay’s architectural merits, you can make the most of Coldingham Bay’s excellent surfing, diving and kayaking at - professional instruction in all three pursuits is available through the nearby St Vedas Surf Shop. There are also plenty of walking routes in the local vicinity, including a scenic coastal walk that takes in the pretty fishing village of St. Abbs, the perfect spot for a tasty seafood chowder or crab baguette. Should you fancy a day trip, choices include the historic coastal town of Berwick-upon-Tweed and vibrant City of Edinburgh.