Kaywana Hall

A unique architectural gem of a B&B, set in tranquil woodland within minutes of Dartmouth and the south Devon coast

At the end of a drive that winds uphill into 12 acres of private Dart Valley woodland, Kaywana Hall was built in 1962 by south Devon architect Mervyn Seal. A cantilevered glass rectangle, jutting out of a hillside like some misplaced California canyon house, it has his signature butterfly roof (each inverted pitch sloping upwards). It was built for sunshine and brilliant blue skies. And for current owners Tony Pithers and Gordon Craig it was love at first sight - though the house they bought was not as healthy as it looked.

When demolition seemed the only option, the couple hired a younger architect, Stan Bolt, who agreed to rebuild the house along its original lines: keeping the same footprint, the same style, the retro carport and fish-bone staircases, the wing-like roof. The 3 guest rooms - reached via steps and outdoor walkways lined with pebbles - were planned into this build. They look out over trees, the glamorous heated pool and the spectacular house (all glassy geometry, split-levels, light and shade). Like most examples of contemporary architecture, it won’t please everyone, but for lovers of modernism, this is a rare treat.

Highs

• Perfect for R&R. Tony and Gordon really look after you and there's a wonderful sense of privacy - each self-contained room has its own entrance, its own decked terrace
• Stylish décor and spoiling, thoughtful details in your room: robes, slippers, umbrellas, candles, homemade fudge, fresh milk, wine glasses…
• The pleasing juxtaposition of secluded forest setting and space-age architecture: a case of treehouse meets the Thunderbirds' Tracy Island
• Excellent breakfasts, and a 10-minute walk to the ferry port for foodie Dartmouth; Tony and Gordon can recommend the best places
• The quirky ferry across the River Dart - one of southwest England’s great little journeys

Lows

• Kaywana doesn’t serve dinner so you will have to walk, or drive, to the nearest pubs and restaurants (1km to Kingswear, where there's a good pub, or a short ferry hop from Kingswear to Dartmouth)
• With only 3 rooms, you will need to book well in advance - especially at weekends
• Breakfast is served at a communal table, which won't please everyone
• A slightly tricky turn-out from the drive - watch the traffic as you edge onto the road
• No children allowed - a high for some!