For sanctuary
In romantic cottages made for bare feet and late breakfasts, couples and solo sojourners pour cream into whiskey-spiked coffee, while dogs take up residence beneath frost-dusted windows.
Winter is for lovers. For the rib-tickling laughter that only happens when clouds burst above the hot tub and raindrops dilute homespun sloe gin cocktails that were months in the making. From bubbling backyard waters, dash indoors to the firelight where the smell of honey-glazed root veg wafts from the Aga and a handwoven basket makes an offering of woollen blankets. These hideaways are for couples in search of the Great British Snuggledown.
Once upon a time there was just one, a solo traveller who retreated to the seaside to paint in the window and dunk local shortbread into cups of cocoa. When quietude calls, going alone is sometimes the only thing that will cut the midwinter mustard. And so we make a case for luxury idleness: throw sticks for pups on beaches bare but for seagulls, set the table for a candlelit dinner for one, and sprawl out on velveteen sofas with the buttons to yourself.
The Crafters´ Hut
Whether in the Swedish wood-fired tub or beneath the pergola watching the rain over the sea, an intoxicating vista is guaranteed at this architect-designed cabin overlooking Mousehole harbour.
Sleeps: Up to 2 guests
From: £1,650 per week, £1,195 per short break
Pets: Two well-behaved dogs are welcome
Features: A Swedish wood-fired tub, summerhouse, fire pit
Kailani
It’s all mackerel greys and storm-cloud blues, folded linens and timeworn maps; an extension of Mousehole's tangible spirit, Kailani a luxury cottage in Mousehole, Cornwall, with a hot tub and views over the sea.
Sleeps: Up to 4 guests
Alternative Group Option: Up to 2 guests
From: £1,850 per week, £1,395 per short break
Pets: One well-behaved dog is welcome
Features: Petit Alvius hot tub
Holanen
It’s Cornwall, but feels like the Aegean Islands. At Holanen, a luxury writer's home in the idyllic township of Mousehole, clever contemporary design rises from the rocks, a trio of terraces overlook the open ocean, and there’s nothing to distract but the call of the kittiwakes.
Sleeps: Up to 4 guests
Alternative Group Option: Up to 2 guests
From: £1,895 per week
Pets: Sorry, no pets
