What we’re all craving right post Christmas…
For us, there’s nothing like a trip somewhere new to reset our batteries and feel inspired with life again. And when it comes to wellness escapes, we’ve found it’s the back-to-nature experiences paired with a little luxury that bring the most powerful restoration. Each of these hand-picked hideaways offer quiet seclusion in stunning natural settings; some have cold water therapy in the form of wild swimming, whilst others draw on the soothing power of warmth with wood-fired saunas and hot tubs.
So switch on your ‘do not disturb’; it’s time to meet the wild and well version of you.
Inverlonan
These little cabins on the west coast of Scotland are a retreat in the very essence of the word, where you can switch off and withdraw from the outside world. Completely off-grid with the most spectacular views from every angle, the loch takes centre stage in your healing regime. From the skin-tingling aliveness of a cold-water swim to the rhythmic glide of paddling in a kayak then warming up in the lochside sauna, you’ll leave feeling totally rejuvenated. Each sleeps 1 or 2.
Fernwood Farm
This trio of quirky hideaways on a 150-acre organic farm on Ireland’s wild west coast offers a space for every taste. Choose the studio for serene Scandi-style interiors, the geodesic dome for a fairytale cocoon or the sleek woodland treehouse for full nature immersion; each sleeps 1 or 2. Begin your day with a serotonin-boosting swim in the lake, followed by a nervous system-soothing sauna (or if you’re staying in the Treehouse, a long soak in the wood-fired Swedish hot tub). Grounding forest walks, warm woodburner evenings and dreamy starlit sleeps are all part of the experience. Each sleeps 1 or 2.
Ukai, Hopi & Chatan
Rewild yourself in the green folds of Devon’s countryside at these secluded cabins, part of an inspiring nature restoration project. Surrounded by regenerated woodland and wildflower meadows thriving with wildlife, as the land around you is given the time and space to heal, so are you. Peaceful walks in the woods clear the mind (look out for the dam-building beavers) and wood-fired hot tubs take forest bathing to a whole new level. Slip into a dreamy meditation as you sink deeper into the water’s warm embrace. Each sleeps 1 or 2.
Callie Bothy, Moray
Hole up a deux in this fairytale cabin in the Scottish woods for a retreat that’s as romantic as it is restorative. Being 6 miles from the nearest town and with limited phone signal, it’s a chance to really switch off and reconnect in the best way. Share alfresco meals on the decking, watching the wildlife in the pond and the wind in the trees. Float around in bathrobes and slippers, padding between the wood-fired hot tub and the firepit, not doing much at all other than simply being together. Sleeps 2.
The Rapids Cottage
Find total peace and quiet at this hillside cottage in the Wye Valley, with woodland walks a-plenty and wild-swimming spots for a dose of cold water therapy. As twilight descends, the twinkling festoon lights bring a touch of magic to the place, where long soaks in the huge tub ease you into the evening. Cuddle up in the woodland cinema for a cosy film night, or settle in for a fireside nightcap on velvet sofas. Bring the kids (there’s room for 4) for a family wellness escape, or come as a couple to make the most of its uber-romantic setting.
Black Rhadley at Heather & Stone
For a truly soul-reviving escape, be that alone or with someone special, nothing tops this gorgeous cabin in the Shropshire Hills. The clean and calming interiors inspire quiet contemplation, with huge windows framing peaceful views and cosy corners to curl up with a good book. Wake up at dawn for some candlelit journaling, greet the sun out on the yoga deck then lie back in the hot tub and listen out for woodpeckers. There’s no WiFi, so it’s perfect for digital detoxing; less doom-scrolling, more full-body-being.
