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 Cable Hut
Aberbach, Pembrokeshire, Wales, UK
Between the remote beaches of Abermawr and Aberbach in South Wales, metres from Pembrokeshire's Coast Path, The Cable Hut is the luxury cabin for a castaway experience.
Sleeps: Up to 2 guests
From: £1,350 per week, £995 per short break
Pets: One large or two small well-behaved dogs are welcome
Features: Hot tub
Smokehouse Cottage
Newgale, Pembrokeshire, Wales, UK
A white stone dot tucked under the hills, Smokehouse Cottage is part of Wales' wild magic on the Pembrokeshire Coast; a luxury fisherman’s cottage with a hot tub ideal for surfers.
Sleeps: Up to 6 guests
From: £2,150 per week, £1,750 per short break
Pets: One small to medium well-behaved dog is welcome
Features: Wood-fired hot tub (available autumn and winter months on prior request), outdoor shower for surfers