Woodland Retreat Cabin, located in south-west Scotland around a two-and-a-half hour drive from Newcastle, has been named among the best countryside escapes in the UK by travel experts at holidaycottages.co.uk. The cabin was chosen as one of the top three countryside escapes in the country, as well as one of the best lodge breaks.
A secluded retreat with hot tub and sauna
Situated five miles outside the town of Dalbeattie and less than 10 minutes' drive from the coastline, the cabin is described as a retreat where "adventure awaits at every turn". It offers space for up to six guests with three bedrooms and two bathrooms, and features its own hot tub, sauna, and BBQ grill cabin.
Prices start from £1,295 for seven nights. Its secluded woodland location, "unforgettable" countryside views and direct access to nature and wildlife are all reasons why it has been ranked among the top stays in Britain.
What the experts say
The experts at holidaycottages.co.uk said: "Hidden amongst the trees, Woodland Retreat Cabin offers an ideal setting for switching off and enjoying life outdoors. Forest trails, wildlife encounters, and vast dark skies create an atmosphere of complete tranquillity, while warm interiors and captivating views ensure a welcoming stay in every season."
They added: "The cabin embraces its leafy setting at every turn, with wow-factor highlights including a separate BBQ grill cabin, a soothing sauna, and a bubbling hot tub." It is worth noting that this stay is not dog-friendly.
Guest reviews and other options
One guest who celebrated a family birthday there over the festive period said in a five-star review: "The cabin is so luxurious yet also has a real homely feel. The complimentary gift basket was such a special touch and contained lots of delicious treats. We had plenty of wood, kindling, coal and fire lighters provided for use of the sauna, BBQ house and wood burning stove."
They added: "Sitting by the log burner with the Christmas tree twinkling nearby was truly beautiful and cosy. We cannot wait to return." Another visitor praised: "Beautiful, well equipped cottage with great facilities. Exceptionally clean and comfortable with a warm welcome and a very useful welcome basket. Great proximity to Dalbeattie 7stanes for mountain biking."
A third echoed: "I've never been so excited to leave a review after spending a wonderful three nights at this cabin. [...] It was the perfect retreat to a peaceful corner of the world, and we are keen to make the trip again." And someone else wrote: "What an excellent place, very peaceful and wildlife all around you. We will be back sometime."
For those seeking a stay closer to home, Granary Cottage in Bellingham, Northumberland was crowned the best place to stay in the North East last year on Sykes Holiday Cottages. The two-bedroom stay has room for up to four people and has a perfect five-star rating with more than 100 reviews. Meanwhile, Forest Holidays offer 'ultimate forest getaway' breaks in 13 locations across the UK, with Cropton Forest in North Yorkshire the closest option to Newcastle by car.
