Faraway Follies

The setting is beautiful, and the edible gifts on arrival were a nice touch, but the stay left me very disappointed. This wasn't the birthday weekend I wanted to surprise my partner with, and I wouldn't return or recommend the place. I booked Owl Lodge through Booking.com, and both the confirmation email, which I have a screenshot of, and the address in my account showed that property. Instead, we arrived to find we'd been put in The Dog House. It's smaller and clearly set up for dog owners. I wouldn't have chosen it had I known. The listing doesn't mention The Dog House and seems to include photos of both places, which I found misleading. Communication from the hosts was poor. I heard nothing in the days and hours before check-in, then had to chase twice, by WhatsApp and by phone. The call wasn't answered. Confirmation that they were expecting us came 40 minutes after the stated check-in time. I had to chase again for basic access details, so after a long drive we were trying to find the place in the dark. Nobody checked that we'd arrived safely or were happy with the accommodation. There were large holes for dogs cut into both internal doors, which seriously reduced privacy between rooms, including the bathroom. The place smelled strongly of dogs, and the rug was visibly very dirty. We didn't have a dog with us and hadn't agreed to this arrangement, which we found unpleasant. Other problems added to it. The listed WiFi didn't work. One fingertip of the fire gloves had a hole, and I hurt my finger, narrowly avoiding a more serious burn. The property looked like it hadn't been properly prepared, with signs of a rushed turnaround, including an unswept fire. The sauna cost an extra £15 per person, which wasn't disclosed in the Booking.com listing. The hot tub was so poorly insulated it was still lukewarm after eight hours of constant heating. At checkout there was a long list of instructions, which rubbed salt in the wound after such a disappointing stay. For all the dos and don'ts, there was no information about the local area, a real missed opportunity.

The day went by so quickly, and we left feeling relaxed and chilled. My sister and I joined a day retreat, and Leah made everyone feel welcome. She knew the retreat well. It was easy to find, and we enjoyed the walk and mindful outdoor activities, as well as the pool and sauna. Lovely people and a lovely scenic place. X

Mags and Jenny made our stay feel special. They're warm, kind hosts with loads of personality, and their hospitality, along with Daisy's, was divine. We even had an impromptu drum circle on the labrinth. There's a magical quality to the place that felt quite emotional, honestly. My husband and I stayed at Owl Lodge in March with our two dogs, who loved the freedom, long walks and soporific atmosphere. It's hard to feel stressed there. The water dip is tough, and I applaud the ladies for keeping at it, it's damn cold! The sauna is lush, and the hot tub was lovely on a cool spring evening. We'll definitely be back. If you're in touch with your spiritual self, be sure to 'explore'. Much love, Sam & Mark.

My wife, our two dogs and I spent three nights here a few months ago. It was a wonderful break from the chaotic city we live in, and a much needed pause from technology. Mags and Jenny were great hosts and available if anything came up. We had a really relaxing time, with scenic walks for the dogs and cold dips in the stream followed by warming up in the sauna. If you're lucky, your stay might line up with one of Jenny’s sound baths. I can't recommend the place enough.