In these non-stop times, what we really crave is a hideaway in the middle of nowhere. No neighbours, no WiFi. Just you and your travel companion(s), wrapped up in landscapes of wild beauty. From remote, off-grid cabins and romantic woodland retreats to secret cottages hidden deep in the countryside, these are the kind of places where silence surrounds you, and you can forget about the outside world for a while.
Here are 5 of our favourites: part of our full Totally secluded hideaways collection.
Cove Valley, North Devon
This rewilding project in North Devon is one of the most extraordinary places to stay. What was once agricultural pasture land is now an inspirational biodiverse habitat, with sweeping views over woodland and wildflower meadows, alive with butterflies and soaring birds. The rewilded forest is looped with walking trails, revealing grazing deer and leaping hare; and if you’re really lucky you might spy native beavers building their dams. There are 3 totally unique cabins hidden across the site, each with an alfresco bathtub and interiors by London brand HÁM. Which will you choose?
From £225/night. Each sleeps 2.
The River Cabin, Scottish Highlands
Once a basic fishing hut, this vibrant cabin on the banks of a burn is a real one-off. Its sophisticated style is more boutique than bothy nowadays. It hides in a quiet corner of a vast Scottish Highlands estate; paths lead deep into rugged landscapes and the adjacent woodland comes alive with the chatter of fieldfares in autumn and the call of cuckoos in spring. Stargaze from your wood-fired hot tub or sit by the fire and listen to the sound of silence. Highlands escapism at its best.
From £200/night. Sleeps 2.
Bala Shacks, Wales
This is the view we want to wake up to. And to accompany our every alfresco meal. In the middle of nowhere – deep in the Welsh countryside near Bala Lake – you’ll find granite tors, a tumbling waterfall… and a gorgeous black cabin. Revel in the peace or head to Bala Lake for swims and paddleboarding, and walk amongst the foothills of Eryri (Snowdonia National Park), soaring in the distance. Later, settle into your outdoor tub as the stars take over the sky.
From £128/night. Sleeps 2. Dog friendly.
Red Cabin Hill Farm, Somerset
The views are what first stole our heart, but then we saw the gorgeous interiors of this striking red cabin, overlooking the peaceful Somerset Levels. Spruce ply walls glow softly in the light, soft linens promise to wrap you up warmly; it’s tiny-house living dialled all the way up, with a private sauna and cold plunge thrown in just because. Visit Nov–March for mesmerising starling murmurations (try saying that after a glass of wine).
From £225/night. Sleeps 2. Dog friendly.
Garth Gell Farmhouse, Snowdonia
And finally, this off-grid farmhouse in the wilds of Snowdonia National Park – one of the most remote and secluded holiday cottages in Wales. Set a stew to slow-cook on the Aga, send the kids into a world beyond WiFi to make dens in the forest. In a world where everything happens at the flick of a switch, the invitation to slow down here is a breath of fresh air. And with the craggy mountains, quiet beaches and wild moorland of North Wales all on your doorstep, there are endless opportunities for adventure.
From £240/night. Sleeps 6.
Looking for more places to truly switch off? Explore our full Totally secluded hideaways collection – remote cabins, off-grid cottages and hidden countryside retreats, where the only thing on the agenda is slowing down.
