Into the wilds we go, with a selection of accommodation all sharing a common yet commendable trait of being lovingly planned and crafted to reflect their natural surroundings. From glass-fronted natural stone eco-cottages whose interiors ooze sophistication, to a bespoke and hand-crafted log cabin with a slice of spa heaven, and finally to a hobbit house, tree cabins and more in an idyllic woodland retreat where you can lose yourself amidst the magic of greenery and seclusion.
As the name might suggest, these luxurious lochside eco cottages (above and main picture) are located on the owners’ family croft in North West Sutherland, and these simply stunning retreats are sure to leave a lasting impression! Everything about Croft 103 is designed with a sympathetic nod to its surrounding, rugged landscape, from the use of natural stone and local timber to the one-storey design, which means they blend with low impact whilst retaining their distinctiveness. Hill Cottage is a unique fan-shaped construction, whilst Shore Cottage exudes a bolder design; one of a barrel-shaped building and magnificent curved roof. Inside, both are equally breathtaking. Think floor-to-ceiling windows, outdoor roll-top bath tubs and large patios overlooking the sea loch, where you may even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Sounds like heaven to us!
Nestled into the Kent countryside by the flourishing Druidstone Wildlife Park sits a grown-ups only log cabin and rustic retreat that has been completely hand-crafted to perfection by owners Michelle and Chris. The end result is a place where warmth, attention to detail and inimitable hospitality flow freely in a perfect marriage of luxury and comfort. You will have everything you need here for either a short break for a group of up to six adults, or a romantic break for two, from the hand-crafted kitchen to sociable dining space, wood-fired sauna and of course that all-important reviving hot tub, from where you can breathe in fresh air and watch the stars appear in the clear night sky. With the cabin being flanked by popular Whitstable and Canterbury, you are ideally placed to explore the Garden of England in all her glory.
Into the wondrous woodland we head and the unique open-air creativity that is Brook House Woods. With a stunning setting overlooking the Frome Valley and Malvern Hills, this adults only retreat is packed full of adventure and intrigue. Your first decision is which of the highly original accommodation to choose from. Perhaps the quirky hobbit house will ignite your inner Bilbo Baggins. Or there are three round wood, solar powered tree cabins with roll-top bath tubs and terraces high amongst the leaves. Then there is Goji (above), a suspended tree tent located inside the scenic bluebell woods. Now it’s time to start planning your activities, which include woodwork, yoga, photography, reading, painting and more. Or of course, there is the art of doing absolutely nothing, except gazing at the stars and revelling in the sounds of nature.
