I’ll never forget the drive down to Teignmouth last autumn – that golden time of year when Devon’s countryside explodes into a riot of amber and rust, but the roads turn into a sneaky trap for the unwary. I’d set off from Exeter full of beans, radio blasting some classic Fleetwood Mac, only for the sat-nav to chuck a wobbly just past Newton Abbot. It rerouted me down a narrow lane that felt more like a goat track, leaves swirling everywhere in the crisp wind, and I ended up with a branch lightly tapping my wing mirror like it was auditioning for a horror film. A proper daft moment, but it had me chuckling by the time I emerged, windswept and a tad late, buzzing with that proper holiday anticipation.

Pulling up to the place, though, all was forgiven in a heartbeat. Set high above the Teign Estuary with panoramic sea views towards the rolling hills of Shaldon, this stunning south-facing two-bedroom penthouse offers a luxurious coastal retreat in the heart of Teignmouth, blending contemporary design with an exceptional waterside location. First impressions? Blimey, it was love at first sight. The sun was dipping low, painting the estuary in that soft October glow, and from the balcony, you could see the water shimmering like liquid gold against the fiery foliage on the opposite shore. Autumn’s magic was everywhere – no summer crowds, just this peaceful hush broken by the occasional gull.

We wasted no time settling in. Mornings started with brews on the balcony, watching mist lift off the Teign as the hillsides smouldered in their autumn blaze. The season made it perfect for lazy coastal walks – down to Teignmouth’s front, where the promenade was littered with crunchy leaves instead of sandcastles, and the air carried that bracing tang of sea salt mixed with woodsmoke from nearby chimneys. One day, we ambled over to the Shaldon side via the little ferry (such a bargain at a quid or so), crunching through carpets of fallen leaves along the path, stopping for cream teas at a tucked-away spot where the scones were still warm and the jam proper Devonshire. The cooler weather meant no sweaty hikes, just invigorating strolls that left you rosy-cheeked and ravenous.

Afternoons were for estuary gazing – binoculars out for seals bobbing about, their sleek forms cutting through the calmer autumn waters. We’d pop into town for fish and chips from a chippy on the harbour, wrapping up against the nippy breeze to eat them on a bench, the vinegar steaming in the chill. Evenings? Cosy nights in the penthouse, fairy lights twinkling as the sun set early, painting the sky in bruised purples and oranges over the hills. One night, we cracked open a bottle of mulled cider (autumn essential), reflecting on how the season strips everything back – no distractions, just you, the view, and that quiet contentment.

Looking back, I realise I needed that gentle nudge from autumn’s mellow vibes. Life’s been a whirlwind lately, and this spot, with its endless estuary panoramas and seasonal serenity, was the perfect reset. No regrets about picking October – if anything, it made the whole trip feel more real, more mine. Can’t wait to go back next year, leaves and all.