5 Unique UK Hideaways For A Summer Adventure
Let’s face it, travel in 2020 hasn't exactly turned out how we expected. With lockdown wreaking havoc with people's plans and mental health, the urge to get out and start exploring is more potent than ever. With international travel out of the question for the foreseeable future, we’ve decided to look closer to home for our fix of adventure. In this article we’ve put together a list of our favourite unusual UK hideaways to inspire some post-Covid adventure.
Below are 5 of our favourite unique places to stay in the UK, each one with its own story and connection to the local landscape.
1. Croft 103 - Northern Scotland
On the most northern tip of mainland Britain, hidden away on the remote Scottish coast you will find Croft 103. This eco-hideout is about as secluded as it gets, nestled in nature and right on the shore line with views over Loch Eriboll, you are surrounded by wilderness.
To put it simply Croft 103 is one of the most beautifully designed places we have ever been lucky enough to stay. Its curved architecture blends seamlessly into the landscape with a huge glass front providing glorious views out over the water and framing the majestic peak of nearby Ben Hope perfectly.
The interior is equally considered, with every detail, material and feature combining to create a special space, one that you would be hard pushed to tire of. We spent mornings watching the sunrise with a cup of tea from bed and the evenings with a glass of wine around the log fire. Oh and not to mention the outdoor bath for the ultimate sunset soak.
Website: Croft 103
2: Kudhva - Cornwall
Hidden in an abandoned slate quarry in the hills of the Cornish coast lies this off grid escape. Comprised of 6 geometric tree top pods and several tents Kudhva was built around the existing landscape, blending into its surroundings perfectly and giving guests a real feeling of natural connection.
Set apart from the heart of the Kudhva camp, at the base of a natural waterfall is The Danish Cabin, an option for larger bookings and an exceptional piece of architecture.
It is one of those buildings that you fall in love with immediately. The cabin’s beautifully designed interior is matched by its ingeniously engineered structure consisting of an arrangement of folding walls.
The structure is interwoven seamlessly with nature, with trees wrapping themselves around it blending it into the surrounding forest. Sat at the top of the waterfall that powers its lights, this incredible hideout is like something out of an adventure book.
If you want to go off grid in style then this is the place for you!
Website: Kudhva
3. The LivingRoom Treehouse - Snowdonia National Park
Hidden in the treetops of an ancient forest in the depths of Snowdonia are 5 beautifully crafted eco tree houses - collectively named The Living Room. Surrounded by nothing but nature and nestled in the treetops, staying in one of these tree houses feels a million miles from the hustle and bustle of city life.
1: It is made entirely of wood and natural materials.
2: The roof is made of sheep's wool for natural insulation.
3: The outdoor shower is heated by a wood burning stove.
4: We did not see another human throughout our 2 night stay.
This little slice of Welsh paradise is also very well positioned for mountain expeditions and exploring the rugged landscapes of Snowdonia.
Website: Living-Room
4. Wild Camping - Dartmoor National Park
If you’re like us then it’s hard to beat the feeling of camping wild. No restrictions, no nosey neighbours, just freedom and nature and all the hefty price tag of £0. One of the only places outside Scotland that you are allowed to camp wild is Dartmoor National park in Devon. The park is vast, with over 54km squared of moorland to explore and you are not short of options for where to pitch your tent!
Wild horses, forests, rivers and dartmoor’s signature Tors punctuate the terrain, resulting in the perfect low cost adventure.
Website: Dartmoor National Park
5. 57 Nord - Scottish Highlands
Nestled in hills surrounding Loch Duich is the incredible 57 Nord. Situated 57 degrees north and 5 west in the Scottish Highlands this gorgeous wooden cabin is an incredibly well considered piece of Scandi-Scot design. Open plan, with minimalist modern features and a bedroom view of legendary Eileen Donan castle, 57 is a luxurious hideaway.
What’s more, the location is the perfect jump off point for Skye (15 min drive), sections of the North Coast 500 and miles of incredible mountainous lochs.
This is the perfect location if you want to switch off in style.
Spend the mornings feasting on local breads and coffee and evenings eating the freshest langoustine you have ever tasted (bought from the fisherman next door) and watching the sunset with a glass of wine by the open fire.
Website: 57 Nord
