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 Hide
Callestick, Perranporth, Cornwall, UK
An unexpected discovery at the end of a Cornish country lane, this modern luxury cottage hideaway near Perranporth beach combines rusticity with contemporary clean-line appeal.
Sleeps: Up to 2 guests
From: £1,450 per week, £995 per short break
Pets: Two well-behaved dogs are welcome, or three on prior request
Features: Hot tub, fire pit, yoga deck with mats
Libertine
Goonhavern, Perranporth, Cornwall, UK
A luxury woodland cottage with a hot tub, Libertine hides just outside of the village of Goonhavern in North Cornwall, close to Holywell Bay, St Agnes, and Perranporth Beach.
Sleeps: Up to 2 guests
From: £995 per week, £750 per short break
Pets: One large or two medium well-behaved dogs are welcome
Features: Hot tub and garden deck
The Fable
Ventongimps, Perranporth, Cornwall, UK
At the end of a lane in Poldark country, The Fable is a luxury thatched cottage near Perranporth in Cornwall, with reams of nostalgia, rose gardens, wonky windows, and a hot tub.
Sleeps: Up to 4 guests
Alternative Group Option: Up to 2 guests
From: £1,850 per week, £1,450 per short break
Pets: Two well-behaved dogs are welcome, or three on prior request
Features: Hot tub
Gwendolyn
Nestled above the sand dunes of Perranporth Beach, Gwendolyn is a luxury coastal cottage with hot tub and far-reaching sea views in North Cornwall, where troves of rustic riches hide.
Sleeps: Up to 6 guests
Alternative Group Option: Up to 4 & Up to 2 guests
From: £2,495 per week, £1,895 per short break
Pets: Two well-behaved dogs are welcome, or three on prior request
Features: Hot tub, al fresco BBQ area
