If you've been to Windy Harbour you know what it's all about... if you've never been to Windy Harbour, you should know that the settlement is not like a township, but has more the feel of a substantial, well-kept caravan park. The houses (or 'huts' as they're known) are mostly quite close together with paths and driveways squished between, and without fences. Betsea Cottage is in a really special position, privately tucked away behind a couple of rows of huts, with no neighbours directly either side or overlooking. The whole settlement is peaceful and secluded, and Mary's place in particular is especially private and sweet. It's one of the very few huts with a direct view of the ocean. We were there during a quiet week soon after school holidays were over, so the settlement seemed mostly empty.
The house seems like it may have been moved to the site long ago, with vintage vinyl over the creaky floors and small but well laid out spaces. It's not a place to rush around and do things with maximum efficiency - it's much gentler than that.
You have the option to bring your own bedlinen, and if you're a stickler or a fusspot then it might be worth considering. That said, everything was clean and in good repair. It's just the kind of gear that might have been carefully treasured up from your great auntie's guest room closet.
The towels seemed brand-new and fluffy and were a delight.
The kitchen was small, but amazingly well equipped. There was even a stick blender and a set of electric beaters! The owners and other guests will likely have left a few pantry staples in the pretty sideboard, which you can use (though do be a good sport and make sure you replace them).
We made a long-ish stay, so Mary considerately made the washing machine available to us, which was wonderful. And there was no shortage of wind to make the line-drying quick.
Overall it was a lovely stay, and I can highly recommend the place to anyone who wants to be fully self-sufficient in peace while on holidays.