Styling - Adam Powell. Photo - Denise Braki.

Cape Cod is located in the state of Massachusetts in the Northeastern United States. Word has it that a true Cape Codder gets by with their flexed arm in place of a map (consider your armpit as Falmouth and your fingertips as Provincetown – the resemblance is uncanny).

Now that we've got the hang of the geography, the link from excessive coastline to summer holiday hot spot isn't a huge jump to make. The peninsula is comprised of 15 towns and a number of villages, all with varying interpretations of the picturesque New England aesthetic. A relaxed attitude and a beachside locale – both of which appear popular with retirees – pairs with a strong history, maritime character and fresh seafood. And, according to this article from the New York Times, Cape Cod is brilliant for anyone with an aversion to the Hamptons glitz. Just so you know... 

Image via Better Homes & Gardens.

Since we're in the business of homewares, there seems to be no better place to start this armchair adventure than with the iconic architecture of the region. It would appear that the Cape Cod code relies on dormers, gables, and half-storeys, as well as symmetrical window placement and central entryways. Not necessarily all together, but likely all in the same street. Whilst there's a clear nod to colonial settlers, the charm appears to have been notched up a little.

Image via Donna Elle.

Moving inside, Cape Cod offers a smorgasboard of seashells and an abundance of fish motifs. Because it's by the beach, one might assume. Doing the seaside look justice is interior designer, Donna Elle. Donna has created a chic Nantucket residence that partners with captivating architectural features. It's a gorgeous property (really, you should have a look through the gallery), with a mix of classic features and modern design savvy. Adorned with sea artifacts, the battened wall above makes an adorable reference to the coastal surrounds.

Wequassett Resort, Harwich.

When you're looking for a spot to camp in Cape Cod, it's a matter of location, location, location. The upper, mid, lower and outer cape are quite diverse in their personalities. And yes, before you ask, that progression works from armpit to fingertips. Nonetheless, when it comes to finding a spot to catch a few winks, the range includes everything from lavish resorts to humble B&Bs and home rentals. Let's take it from the top: Chatham Bars Inn in (take a guess!) Chatham, or Wequassett Resort and Golf Club in Harwich both seem to tick most of the boxes one would want ticked. The Queen Anne or Captain's House Inn, also in Chatham, offer traditional décor for an authentic time-warp experience. In Sandwich, there's the Isaiah Jones Homestead, and in Eastham there's the so-cute-it-hurts Cottage Grove. Got a big group? Consider renting a place. We've found a historical homestead in Barnstable with room for 12.

Lobster Shop, Provincetown.

Seafood is the specialty in Cape Cod. In Provincetown, there's The Red Inn. Ideal for that sea-to-stomach experience, it's won a couple of culinary awards and has views worth bragging about. In the same neck of the wood is Relish, which is great for lunch, or cake (and let's be honest, dessert deserves to be a meal in itself). We also have it on good authority that Abba in Orleans is arguably the best in Cape Cod. Meanwhile, in Wellfleet, may we suggest The Wicked Oyster or the Bookstore & Restaurant. Fun fact: there's also a huge cranberry industry in Cape Cod.

Brant Point Lighthouse, Nantucket.

To pass the time, there's 66 miles of shoreline that you can acquaint yourself with. From fishing to surfing to kayaking to whale watching, the big blue is probably the number one destination for entertainment. If you choose to forego the beach on occasion, might we suggest a stroll around one of the many lighthouses, hitting the streets in Provincetown, or going to Wellfleet drive-in cinema. There's also the nearby destinations of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard, accessible via ferry or air. Lastly, why not take a hike around the same landscape that inspired Edward Hopper. Hey, if it worked for Hopper, it might work for you.

Too far to travel right now? Shop the Cape Cod collection instead.