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.
Windfall
Black Mountains, Herefordshire, UK
On the Welsh border in Herefordshire, a Victorian cider mill has been reborn as a rural escape. In Dark Sky territory, this rustic retreat promises Swedish tub soaks under infinite stars.
Sleeps: Up to 2 guests
From: £1,550 per week, £1,150 per short break
Pets: One well-behaved dog is welcome
Features: Swedish wood-fired tub
The Black Cabin
Idyllically set near Hay-on-Wye and overlooking the majestic Black Mountains, this noir-hued cabin offers a wood-fired hot tub, infrared sauna and views for miles.
Sleeps: Up to two guests
From: £1,595 per week, £1,195 per short break
Pets: Two well-behaved dogs are welcome
Features: Outdoor kitchen, outdoor woodfired hot tub, indoor infrared sauna and cold plunge tub
Hollyhocks
A chalky Tudor cottage nestled on the banks of the river Arrow in the fairy-tale village of Eardisland, this is a characterful home, complete with hot tub.
Sleeps: Up to 4 guests (+2)
Alternative Group Option: Up to 2 guests
From: £1,950 per week, £1,450 per short break
Pets: Two well behaved dogs are welcome
Features: William Holland spa bath and outdoor kitchen
The Hop Store
Set within 150 acres of perfectly aligned hop yards, rolling meadows and juicy apple orchards, The Hop Store is idyllically situated on one of the last remaining hop farms in the UK.
Sleeps: Up to 4 guests
Alternative Group Option: Up to 2 guests
From: £1,795 per week, £1,350 per short break
Pets: Sorry, no pets
Features: Hot tub and fire pit, heated garden room, games room with pool table, dartboard and giant jenga
