3 Bonaventure Close, Salcombe

3 Bonaventure Close is a large whole-house rental in Salcombe, set above the estuary in one of the most sought-after corners of the south Devon coast. The size of the house is what guests mention first: it is a proper multi-bedroom property rather than a holiday flat, which makes it a sensible base for a group bringing a dog along as well as a car full of people. It earns a 4.3 out of 5 paw rating.

The house takes one dog, and the rules are more specific than most: downstairs only, and not on the furniture. Guests are also asked to clear up after the dog in the garden. None of that is unreasonable, but it does shape who the property suits. A dog used to following the family upstairs at bedtime will find the arrangement strange, and the set-up works best for one that settles happily on its own bed in a kitchen or living room.

Salcombe is superb walking country. The South West Coast Path runs along the estuary from the edge of town, North and South Sands both take dogs outside the peak summer restrictions, and the passenger ferry across to East Portlemouth opens up a quieter set of paths on the far shore. The town is compact enough to walk everywhere, and Hope Cove, Bigbury and the Kingsbridge estuary are all a short drive away for variety.

One caveat is worth raising before you book. The downstairs, which is the part of the house dogs are allowed in, has been reported as smelling of dog on arrival, suggesting the between-stays clean does not always reach it. It is worth a check when you walk in, and worth raising with the owner straight away if it needs attention.

Best suited to a family or group wanting a roomy Salcombe base with estuary walking on the doorstep, travelling with one settled dog that will be content downstairs.