Downalong, near Wootton, is set among the trees, with a path down to its own beach frontage. CONTRIBUTED
HOMEFILE
Location: Near Wootton
Bedrooms: One double
Price: Guide £395,000
Agent: Waterside Properties
Telephone: 01983 210492
ARUSTIC sign off the beaten track points to a retreat near Wootton, where woods sweep down to the beach.
Leafy Woodside is the setting of Downalong, a two-and-a-half acre paradise of pretty, ancient woodland, where privacy is guaranteed. You can gaze upon wide sea views and wander down to your own beach frontage, which is nearly 140ft wide.
At the heart of this hidden haven – within an area of outstanding natural beauty — is a comfortable, one-bedroom wooden chalet looking out from an elevated position to The Solent and mainland.
If you have ever dreamed of having your own path and land stretching down to the sea, this is a chance too good to miss.
Meandering about 200ft down through small trees is a path to the sand and shingle beach, from which the owners launch their small boat.
The shore, with its views of liners passing to and from Southampton, is a favourite spot for picnics and barbecues, for sitting and taking in the sea air and, in warmer weather, the starting point for taking a dip.
Just to the front of the chalet is a large raised deck, a sunny spot where outdoor dining is enjoyed.
Getting back to nature is another great aspect of life at Downalong. Beyond a full-width paved rear terrace is a large, glade-like area, bordered by mature oaks and deciduous trees.
Wild plants, including bluebells, orchids and strawberries, abound here and also in many other parts of the grounds. A family of red squirrels and a wide variety of birds, including pheasants and woodpeckers, are frequent visitors.
Although away from it all, Downalong is within a few minutes’ drive of the Fishbourne car ferry and Wootton’s amenities.
In addition to re-roofing the chalet last year, the owners have made it more comfortable by installing a woodburner in the lounge and adding a shower to what was just a WC.
The property has insulated walls and is accessed via a rear porch leading to the good-sized kitchen.
This has storage units, shelving, a point for an electric cooker and space for a dining table.
A utility area leading off has a front sea view and plumbing for a washing machine. It leads to the shower room, which has a white suite.
From the inviting lounge/dining room, with its central woodburning stove, are sea views through two front windows.
The bedroom has a wooded rear outlook.
An enchanting pathway, with hazel arches and rustic fencing, leads to the chalet from a parking area. This has space for three cars off a gravelled unmade road.
Also outside is a six-berth static caravan, with power and plumbing and store sheds.