Canute Cottages on the shores of Chichester Harbour in West Sussex, is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It has access either by road, or by train, which makes it easy therefore to arrive by bike. The four cottages are all self-catering. There are 3, two-bedroom cottages, each sleeping six and a one-bed cottage sleeping four people. Importantly, there are plenty of outdoor activities available in the area.
Hiking
This is great hiking country, with plenty of trails around Chichester harbour or across the wide-open plains. Many of these trails lead through sleepy Sussex villages where one can stop for a drink and hot meal. Some of our favourite villages with cafes and pubs are Bosham and Dell Quay. Another is Itchenor, where in the summer months a ferry runs across an estuary. This allows for easy and shorter circular hikes. This is also a tidal area, so it is worthwhile knowing the tide times. For more information on tide times, visit the Chichester Harbour Website.
Boat trips
For a really interesting activity take the solar-powered catamaran for an hour-long cruise around Chichester harbour. This near-silent vessel is a great way of experiencing the silence on the waters and getting near to bird-life. Moreover, it is wheel-chair accessible, and has the added advantage of being non-polluting. It has two departure points, one from the village of Itchenor and the other from Emsworth at scheduled times. In addition, the catamaran can be hired privately.
There are many other activities here too such as sailing, windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Biking trips
This is easy country to cycle as it is mostly flat. As a result, it is great for children too. Many of the routes use a combination of minor roads and bike trails. e.g. Centurion way and Salterns Way, or make up your own trip, there is plenty of scope to do that.
There is plenty of exploring too around the many villages of Bosham, Emsworth and Itchenor to name a few. The major town nearby is Chichester. Located here is the Festival Theatre, the Catherdral or for a fun day try the Goodwood airfield and race track, also close-by.
West Wittering Beach
If you want a break from all the activity on offer in the area head to one of the sandiest beaches on the south coast at West Wittering. The miles of sandy beaches, framed by the sand dunes will not disappoint.
Eco-credentials
Solar thermal and solar photovoltaics systems provide the energy for the ecolodges, while a 100% renewable energy provider tops up. Their sustainable policy includes active land management e.g. planting trees, and hedgerow and pond restoration work. Walkers, cyclists, dinghy sailors are all welcome, and each of the four cottages are wheel chair friendly.
Nangle angle
Great eco-stay and a great introduction to the wilds of West Sussex
Nangle facts & tips
For more information visit canutecottages.co.uk
The solar installations are managed by Ecohisolar, a Sussex based renewable energy company.
