We visited Osea Island last week for just two and a half hours and left with a sense of contentment and the feeling that we had witnessed something rather special. A little like the feeling you are left with after watching a thought provoking film…
It’s hard to find the right words to describe Osea as everyone’s idea of perfection is different. If you are looking for perfect lawns and manicured accommodation then it’s probably not for you. If however you are looking for something with a distinctive personality that will disconnect you from everyday life then you will not be disappointed. With a feeling of easing backwards in time its like no other place this close to London that I have been to.
I actually think I am in love…
So where and what is Osea Island?
Osea Island is a private Island located just off the Essex coast of England: it is so secret even the locals have never heard of it. It is steeped in history (which I will cover in another post) and owned by music producer Nigel Frieda. Here is a little insight on what i think about Osea Island as a short break family holiday destination…
Why I think adults will like Osea Island
The Osea Island Causeway – tides out!
The only way to access Osea by car is when the tide is low via the causeway. When the tide is high the island is closed off from the rest of the UK for eight hours at a time giving you an amazing sense of freedom and pure escapism.
You will love watching the children explore nature’s natural playground and the whole family will indulge their senses in this quite majestic place.
Osea Island transport
The island is safe, no traffic (transport on the island is in the form of foot or pedal power) and only guests are allowed to be here.
Osea Island Games Room
The small games room is kitted out with the usual ping pong table and games but you will also find piles of vinyl (that’s what us oldies used to play music on for those too young to know!) and a selection of old fashioned record players to play them on giving you a little glimpse into the world of Osea’s owner Nigel Frieda. Through the door at the back of the games room is a small cinema room with a few rows of comfy arm chairs. This small club-house is simple and offers an eclectic mixture of entertainment which will delight the senses of both young and old.
Osea Island Gym
If taking in the scenery, fresh sea air and strolling around the 4 ½ mile stretch of beach and gardens is not enough for you don’t worry there is a gym and tennis court for all residents to use.
Osea’s swimming pool
If you are looking for water activities then why not try Kayaking, boating or fishing and the outdoor swimming pool is open during the summer months.
Why the kids will like Osea Island
Foraging on Osea’s beach
All the above! Mum and dad will be so relaxed the children will be in their element foraging for treasure on the beach, climbing trees, building camps, playing games in the garden, splashing in the pool, playing ping pong in the club house or petting the lovely resident donkeys Salt and Pepper.
Salt and Pepper
We took our five year old when we visited and he still hasn’t stopped talking about the causeway, we let him drive along it too (well steer on daddy’s lap). The excitement of driving where the sea usually sits and going to a private island has been a talking point for him ever since!
Driving on along the Causeway
Osea Island is a place like no other, we were transported back in time and taken to a faraway place after just a couple of hours here, I can’t wait to spend a couple of nights! Just imagine…
Sunset on Osea
There are 19 child-friendly holiday homes on Osea Island of varying sizes, accommodating from 2 – 22 people alternatively you can hire the whole island and there is a fab venue licensed for weddings (more on that in my next blog post). If you can’t wait take a look at their holiday cottages and Manor House, Captains House and Beach cottages and apartments here on Holiday Tots:
https://www.holidaytots.co.uk/view-property/401-manor-in-osea-island/
