Details can be found in the new brochure, which includes nearly 600 places to stay throughout Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset, ranging from romantic retreats for two up to big country houses sleeping a maximum of 48 guests; prices are from £175 to £5,995 per week.
The green cottages scheme encourages home owners and holidaymakers to think sustainably; 15 holiday homes in the agency’s portfolio carry the green tree symbol with around 100 owners hoping to join the initiative in the near future. To qualify, each cottage is assessed by Helpful Holidays against 69 aspects, which help them make a lesser impact on the environment. Particular regard is given to energy, pollution and water as well as their effect on local wildlife and landscapes.
Helpful Holidays has again been nominated for a British Travel Award in the Best UK cottage/self catering booking company (UK properties) category. This follows last year’s success when the agency scooped second place and a Silver Award. It was also awarded first place by Which? Travel, the UK’s most trustworthy barometer of public opinion, in their members’ survey this year of holiday cottage and villa booking companies.
Celebrating these accolades Moray Bowater continued; “The London 2012 Games has seen the hardest endeavours poured into amazing moments of accomplishment. Here at Helpful Holidays our team’s dedication has earned us our own triumph - achieving top place in the Which? members’ survey, which we hope will contribute to our future legacy.”
All Helpful Holidays’ properties are regularly inspected and star rated by its team so they can advise holidaymakers honestly through first-hand experience; 38 holiday homes carry a top 5 star rating, while 60 have 4½ stars. 67 have use of a heated swimming pool, some have private moorings or fishing rights; others are on working farms and most have stunning views across countryside or out to sea. Many are within ambling distance of the beach or local pub, and over half welcome pets.
Many of Helpful Holidays’ properties are exceptionally plush and the agency has a deserved reputation for offering big and beautiful places. 81 of its houses sleep ten or more; many can organise professional catering and maid service.
For a free copy of Helpful Holidays’ 2013 brochure call 01647 434063, order online or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ; every property is also featured on website www.helpfulholidays.com. The agency’s charity for 2013 is Devon Air Ambulance.
