Cosy Retreat

HOTEL OVERVIEW

You know what caught me off guard about Cosy Retreat? The name actually fits – and I mean that in the best way possible. I’ve stayed at plenty of places that promise “cosy” and deliver cramped, but this little spot on Rife Lane genuinely feels like someone’s thoughtfully designed hideaway. It’s tucked into Selsey in a way that makes you feel like you’ve discovered something locals would rather keep to themselves.

The thing about staying here is that you’re properly in Selsey, not just passing through on your way to somewhere else. Rife Lane itself is quiet – honestly, the loudest thing you’ll hear most evenings is the occasional car heading down to the beach or maybe someone walking their dog. The owners have clearly put thought into every corner without going overboard with the boutique hotel theatrics. I mean, there’s no official star rating because it doesn’t fit into those rigid categories, but the 8.9 rating makes complete sense once you’re there. Everything just… works. The WiFi doesn’t cut out, the shower pressure is actually decent (which, let’s be honest, can be hit or miss in these older coastal buildings), and someone clearly understands that good lighting matters more than fancy fixtures.

What really sold me on the place was how it sits in the broader Selsey landscape. You’re a proper walk to the beach – not one of those “beachfront” claims that means you can technically see water if you crane your neck. But that’s actually perfect because you get the coastal feel without the summer crowds trampling past your window at 7am. The Selsey locals I chatted with all seemed to know the place, which is always a good sign. There’s something to be said for a hotel that the people who live nearby actually respect rather than just tolerate. Parking was straightforward too – none of that stressful hunting around narrow streets that you get in some seaside spots. Check-in felt more like arriving at a well-organized friend’s place than the usual hotel desk routine, if that makes sense. The staff actually seemed to know the area rather than just reading from a script about “local attractions.” I ended up getting better restaurant recommendations from them than I found online, which doesn’t happen often these days.