Freshwater Bay Sea View Apartment, Lamphey

Freshwater Bay Sea View Apartment looks out over Freshwater East, one of the quieter sandy bays on the south Pembrokeshire coast, and the outlook is what guests lead with. Dogs are specifically welcome, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path runs along the cliffs on either side of the bay, and the beach is a walk rather than a drive, though a steep one in both directions, which is worth knowing if your dog is old or short-legged.

The apartment is on the third floor but reached along external walkways rather than stairs, which makes arriving with a dog, a crate and a week of luggage far less of an ordeal than the floor number suggests. There is allocated parking, the grounds are well kept, and the flat is well stocked for self-catering. Guests with dogs describe the beds and sofa as comfortable and the layout as workable for a small family plus a dog.

Cleanliness is where the reviews split, and dog owners should read that carefully. Guests travelling with dogs have found it lovely and clean. Guests arriving without one have reported the opposite on at least one stay: dog hair on the dining chairs, a wet-dog smell in the sofa and a knitted throw, dust and cobwebs, and dishes that needed rewashing. On a property with a small review count that carries weight, though it reads like a changeover miss rather than a permanent state. If anyone in your party reacts to dogs, ask about the turnaround clean before you book.

The position works well beyond the beach. Pembroke, Lamphey and Tenby are all short drives, and the coast path opens up a lot of walking without moving the car. A couple of small gaps: there is no lamp in the bedroom or living room, which is noticeable on winter evenings.

Freshwater Bay Sea View Apartment suits couples and small families who want a sea view, easy beach access and a dog-friendly base for the Pembrokeshire coast. It earns a 4.5/5 paw rating.