For a taste of the good life in this part of the world, perch yourself in this historic shipwright's house above Cygnet's picturesque bay.

Refreshingly free of chintz, the spacious cottage has a perfect combination of mod cons and country garden charm.

If it's warm, you can daydream the afternoon away on the front verandah, gazing down over the bay and the hills. Or meander around picking fruit from the little orchard out the back.

When winter closes in, take a brisk walk along the stunning waterfront before curling up in a comfy sofa to browse the library of local stories, accompanied by the crackling of an open fire.

If you need to explore, you're not far from a decent cafe or three, as well as hikes, water activities and gourmet trails. Or you could simply arrange for the charming Leslie to deliver freshly prepared meals each night. You really won't want to leave.