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.
Hansa
Weston-under-Lizard, Shropshire, UK
A Victorian gothic cabin with a woodfired hot tub, set in 200 acres of wild woodland on Shropshire's Bradford Estates, Hansa is a luxury fairy-tale cottage in Weston-under-Lizard.
Sleeps: Up to 2 guests
From: £1,595 per week, £1,250 per short break
Pets: Two well-behaved dogs are welcome
Features: Woodfired hot tub, two vintage-style bicycles, a row boat
Charlotte´s Folly
Weston-under-Lizard, Shropshire, UK
Telling a sweet tale of craftmanship and nostalgia, this luxury self-catering cottage is storybook architecture at its finest, a time-travelling family retreat that might have been lifted from folklore.
Sleeps: Up to 6 guests
Alternative Group Option: Up to 2 guests
From: £1,650 per week, £1,250 per short break
Pets: Two well-behaved dogs are welcome
Features: Two vintage-style bicycles
