Exploration is the hot topic of the day as we embark on three very different journeys, not only geographically but also in terms of holiday style. From a woodland off-grid retreat with plenty of valleys, caves, rivers and forested trails to explore in the Dordogne region of France, to a unique glamping site set on the edge of a Venetian lagoon, allowing the combination of a city break and relaxing retreat in the Italian sunshine. Finally we head to a rugged and remote escape from the world in Canada’s Nova Scotia, where kayaking and boat explorations await amidst simply stunning scenes. All very different, yet all equally beguiling!
The Périgord Vert region of the Dordogne is full of ancient history and natural wonder. If you remember those school French lessons, you’ll know that “vert” means “green”, and as soon as you arrive at your Covertcabin (above and main picture), set in the region’s National Park, you’ll see just how aptly named your lush surroundings happen to be! These three secluded homes seem to blend effortlessly with their verdant surroundings, which comprise dramatic valleys, sparkling rivers, limestone caves, cliffs and historic villages with authentic chateaux. Each hand-crafted cabin is refreshingly off-grid and uses solar power, allowing you to switch off from busy modern life and enjoy an eco-escape that treads lightly on its forest setting. The cabins are also pet-friendly, so why not bring your four-legged friend, curl up in a hammock and enjoy some serious downtime.
Venice: one of the world’s great, iconic cities, as mysterious and beguiling as it is picturesque, and here we have a great alternative accommodation suggestion for your visit to the land of gondola. Why not stay along the Venetian lagoon on a unique glamping site with an array of marvellous self-contained American airstream trailers and Scandi-inspired Nordisk tents? This is an Italian holiday where you are assured plenty of style, even when sleeping under the stars. Ideal for lovers of creativity and adventure, inside your polished aluminium airstream is all the comfort and luxury you might expect from a hotel suite. You’ll find contemporary Italian furnishing throughout, including a cosy sofa that cleverly transforms into a bed, a stylish kitchenette, comfy double bed and an elegant bathroom. Alternatively, combine clean-lined, functional Nordic design with Venetian elegance in one of the chic canvas Nordisk tents.
The rugged Atlantic coastline of Nova Scotia is our final stop today, where a selection of unique and off-grid designer cabins await, each ideally positioned to take advantage of its rural surroundings and coastal outcrop setting. Choose from a schoolhouse rescued and restored from the original 1830s building, or perhaps an elegant barn-like cabin on the edge of the cliffs that affords dramatic coastal views from 68ft of glazing. Then there is Point House, surrounded by water on three sides and with a secluded sleeping loft to escape from the world, or the gate house, with its traditional gabled roof and 24ft wide corner window overlooking the northern valley. Whilst this is a remote retreat, you’ll not want for activities here, with kayaking adventures, boat trips, fishing and breathtaking beaches all ripe for exploration.
