We’re into March (how did that happen?) and with spring around the corner, it’s the perfect time to plan a weekend getaway. Want to pack your bags, kick back, breathe in some fresh country air and get thoroughly off grid? Us too, so we’ve found five of the best hidden hideaways from Kip, the UK’s new membership site that specialises in curating the most stylish, under the radar and affordable boutique rentals.
SNOWDONIA TREEHOUSES
If you’re looking for a magical off-grid experience, this one’s for you. These six eco treehouses are hidden amongst ancient Welsh woodland on the edge of Snowdonia National Park, set above flower-strewn pastures and icy streams. Built of oak, the treehouses blend beautifully into their surroundings, each spaced just far enough apart for privacy, with private spiral stairs leading to each living pod. Inside, you’ll find rustic-luxe touches by a Swedish interior designer - think cosy double beds wrapped in Welsh wool blankets, wood-burning stoves, pretty lanterns and forest showers with water from the nearby mountain spring. Want a bit of romance? Choose the treehouse with the hot tub and stargazing chair.
DARTMOOR HIDEAWAYS
Pack the Chelsea overnight bag in sage
Swap your email alerts for birdsong at this Dartmoor hideaway. A pair of rustic-luxe eco cabins hidden in two acres of woodland, you’ll find plenty to do here - unwind in the hammock, paddle in the steam, wander to the pub, sit by the firepit or go wild swimming. Ask in advance and the owners will bring you a basket of their seasonal veg from their kitchen garden, along with the best local produce for breakfast – bacon, sausage, eggs, cheese and honey. Sustainability? It runs through the very heart of this place. From sophisticated solar set-ups to growing food for guests on site and natural water filtration systems.
A PEMBROKESHIRE HOUSEBOAT
Pack the Portobello cabin in silver
A quirky, hand-crafted houseboat floating on a large freshwater pond… Can you think of anything better? Hole up in this rustic-chic cabin and you’ll be left all alone apart from the odd moorhen for company. With a wrap-around terrace and outdoor hammock chair, you can wake up to watery views and beautiful sunrises or even fall asleep to stars twinkling overhead. It’s part of a 300-acre farm with a mixture of woodland, grassland, salt marsh and moorland, meaning glorious walks are on your doorstep. And don’t worry - at least one leads to a pub!
A NORTH DEVON HIDEAWAY
Pack the Chelsea day pack in taupe
Off grid and nestled in an ancient oak woodland, this converted barn is the epitome of slow living – you’ll find fresh air, lush woodland and the freedom to explore. It’s a nirvana for those who want acres all for themselves. You’ll be greeted by jars of freshly picked flowers and a homemade cream tea as the peaceful tones of mother nature surround you. Nature lovers - keep your eyes peeled and if you’re lucky you’ll spot tawny owls, foxes, badgers and otters splashing in the steam. The barn’s design blends into the landscape and its interiors are delectably stylish.
A QUIRKY SUSSEX CARRIAGE
Pack the Clifton cabin in cornflower
A kooky, romantic eco-cabin on its own private lake, this little spot even has an alfresco bath. Entirely off grid, it’s a revamped 1880s train carriage that sits on the edge of Ashdown Forest, with not a neighbour in sight. A hamper of locally sourced sourdough, eggs, jam and butter will greet you on arrival - book in here to turn off your phone and enjoy the pleasures of life in the slow lane. Jump in the lake for a wild swim, warm up in the hot wood-fired bathtub before cosying up in the living area with the weekend papers. The kitchen features an outdoor wood-fired oven, and that means pizza for dinner… though if that sounds a little beyond your culinary skills fear not - the village shop and local pub is within a half hour walk.
Ready to go? Shop our collection of hand luggage to take along for the ride.
