Enjoy mountains and valleys in Slovenia
Jezersko is a pretty small town in a remote mountain valley in Northern Slovenia. The surrounding landscapes offer changing views during the seasons, making it a wonderful destination all year round. Try ice skating and skiing in winter or fishing and lake swimming in the summer. If you’re after total escapism and meditation, then Vila Planinka is perfect. The hotel’s style is in keeping with its surroundings with rough exposed wood, open fires, luxury throws, and rustic lighting all creating the perfect mountain lodge retreat. Head out and explore the local valleys and views with a guide, or try forest bathing in the surrounding woods – it’s said to help with wellbeing and boost your health. If you want to see more of what this beautiful country has to offer, then take a trip to the Postojna Caves and Predjama Castle, two of Slovenia’s greatest wonders.
• Stay at Vila Planinka from £221 per night, room only. Book at Vilaplaninka.com
Luxurious lakeside retreat
Cosy up beneath the stars and head to the beautiful Finn Lough, in Enniskillen, Northern Ireland. Choose from an array of luxury accommodation, ranging from bubble domes in the woods to a split-level lakeside lodge the wilderness. It’s the perfect digital detox, where you can relax and enjoy the remote beauty of Lough Erne without interruption. Make the most of the natural surroundings with walks, cycle rides, fishing or yoga, or head out on a pedal kayak across the lakes – there’s even complimentary bike hire included. If you want to go further, the peaceful beaches of Donegal and Sigo aren’t too far away. Retreat to the resort and enjoy a cosy setting, natural spa, private dining, or drinks on the shores of the lake as you watch the Irish sun set, before an early morning start and delivery of a fresh breakfast hamper straight to your door.
• A one-night stay for two people in the Forest Bubble Dome costs from £295; one- night stay for two in the Sky suites cost from £175. Both include home-cooked breakfast and mountain bike hire. Book at Finnlough.com
Rural retreat in Wales
Enjoy a family break in beautiful Carmarthenshire in this picture-perfect cottage that sleeps four in a warm and welcoming setting. Located in a tranquil valley, the cottage overlooks the River Towy, on the edge of the Cambrian Mountains and near the Brecon Beacons. The cottage is in the sleepy little village of Rhandirmwyn, so you feel suitably out of the rat race. However, it’s perfectly situated for exploring the local area, with many hiking and bike tracks nearby. There are two pubs in the village serving locally produced food and drink, and once you’ve sampled both, you can head back to the cottage for a cosy night cap by the fire.
• A three-night stay for four at Brynglas Cottage costs from £360. For more information and to book, visit Brynglascottage.com
Romantic lodge in California
Surrounded by three sides of the Stanislaus National Forest, the gorgeous adults-only Blackberry Inn is tucked away in 36 stunning acres of forest next to Yosemite National Park. While the park can be busy, there are over 800 hikes, cycle paths, and places to explore, so it’s easy to find a quiet space surrounded by the legendary giant sequoia trees. With over 500 to see – including the Grizzly Giant, which is between 1,950-2,400 years old – they’re a magnificent sight. Enjoy stunning views from your accommodation, which has vaulted ceilings and large windows that practically bring the outside in. Each day of the stay, you’re treated to freshly baked cookies and a breakfast choice of frittatas, omelettes, eggs, French toast, and fruits, served on your patio or in the main building.
• Blackberry Inn, Yosemite Mariposa County, California, from £190 per night including bed and breakfast. Book online at Blackberry-inn.com
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