ANDY COOPER and his family stayed at Whitelady House, a grand rental home near Lydford Gorge. Here, are his ten reasons why you should make a beeline there too…
1 The wonder of Whitelady House. Relaxing, stylish, open-spaced, versatile…this house is a wonderful place to take a holiday. It manages to combine the knack of being big enough to cater for a large family, whilst also having some cosy nook and crannies you can escape to. A renovated country house close to the waterfall at Lydford Gorge from which it takes its name, it is a delightful spot for a holiday rental.
2 A kitchen to die for
It’s an amateur chef’s heaven in the magnificently appointed kitchen. A traditional Aga sits proudly at one end, while the rest of the space is taken up with the very best and latest of gear. There’s a large island featuring a cooking hob in the centre, perfect for everyone to gather around for a drink and a chat as the budding MasterChefs among you get busy. Which brings me to…
3 Carol’s cooking.
Know many other holiday homes where the owner offers to come and personally cook dinner for you? No, me neither. And what a meal it was too! Carol Myott is more than happy to offer a meal cooking service as part of the package you pay for when staying. Frankly, the only thing which matched her meticulous planning was the taste of the food she served up as we relaxed in the beautiful dining room. My family are still in raptures about the cheese soufflé!
4 The hot tub
What child doesn’t love a hot tub? In fact, who with an inner child doesn’t love one too?! It’s no tight-fitting, poorly-maintained version either: this is the Rolls Royce of machines, scrupulously maintained and spacious enough for everyone to enjoy a relaxing dip.
5 Beautiful bedrooms
A great deal of thought has gone into the interior design and nowhere is this more evident than in any of the six bedrooms. Soft, contemporary fabrics and designs magnificently complement the surroundings.
6 Lounging around
You are here to relax, right? Well, you’ll need a comfy lounge then, won’t you? So, how about two of them? That’s what Whitelady House provides…there’s a magnificently-appointed large lounge with suitably monster wood burner in which to relax or a less formal room too with TV and lots of gizmos and games for those who want it.
7 Lydford Gorge-ous
Many a visitor to Devon flocks to Lydford Gorge and yet during your stay you have it on your doorstep – and what’s more it’s for free! Passes are kindly provided as part of your rental package, meaning you can explore this gem of a place over and over again.
8 The little touches
They abound here. Smellies are in your bathrooms, home-cooked cakes and treats greet you on arrival, detailed instructions and advice on running the house await.
9 Foodie flavours
Naturally you could stay put and eat like kings and queens. But on your doorstep are some magnificent pubs and eateries, so get out an explore them!
10 Ask the experts
Booking is done thorough Boutique Retreats, a new arm of the award-winning Classic Cottages company. The Boutique Retreats brand has been created for a selection of ‘uber’ properties which the company selects as worthy of it.
Frankly, if the experts say so…and my experience is anything to go by, then go on and book Whitelady House!
