A coastal hidey hole

When someone mentions the coastal hideaway of (insert celebrity name here), I imagine an ostentatious hacienda perched obtrusively on a cliff-top in view of any passer-by. By contrast, Points South Cottages is virtually invisible from just about any angle or approach. The grey-green exterior blends into the thick coastal scrub. Far from standing out, the two cottages look outright plain even as they come into view just metres beneath the narrow road leading to the entry. There's certainly nothing to suggest the luxury and upmarket touches that exist within the weatherboard walls.

Inside beneath a cathedral ceiling are a bright, warm and airy living room and kitchen. The view over the tops of trees to the curving coastline below is exceptional. A massive upholstered window seat covered with cushions cries out for an afternoon of reading, drinking and sea-gazing. This is, quite literally, the best seat in the house and, thankfully, large enough for two people.

The balcony has a four-seat table and gas-fired Weber barbecue and offers some protection from the gusty winds that batter the coast.

From here it's easy to feel that we're the only inhabitants on this great expanse of wild coast and pretty shore, apart from a shy rabbit that forages in the fenced-in garden, where there's a large kennel for guests travelling with pets. It also has a couch, a wood fire, music system, satellite receiver and television positioned way too high on a built-in bookshelf. A decent selection of DVDs – from golden age Hollywood classics to contemporary family comedies – and board games are at one's disposal. A timber cupboard hides a pull-down double bed, which is made up and ready for additional guests.

The complimentary hamper is, shall we say, eclectic, and includes black bread, jam, Belgian chocolate, ground coffee, juice, breakfast cereals and ... chips and pizza shapes. Something for everyone, though maybe not everyone's idea of breakfast on a lazy weekend away.

The kitchen is fitted with dishwasher, microwave, cooktop, good crockery and cooking implements. With the Weber at your disposal, there's no need to drive to Apollo Bay, Skenes Creek or Wye River for meals if one comes prepared with provisions. The fishing co-op at the jetty on the road out of Lorne is a good place to shop.

If there's an award for most comfortable holiday-house bed, this king-size barge with cotton sheets and warm eiderdown is a definite contender. The only noise at night is the sound of crashing waves. It's a blissful lullaby.

From the cottage, it's a short walk down to the main road, across which is a trail through the scrub to a small sandy beach. At low tide, there's a seemingly endless line of flat rock and pretty rockpools to be explored.

Owners Bryan and Joan James run the property with confident efficiency. They live nearby and ensure guests arrive with clear directions and feel welcome. They can also be called upon for tips about eating out and things to do.