A restful break in one of best remote locations in the UK is ideal if you're feeling the need to get away for ultra peace and quiet. From beautiful beach holidays in Cornwall to brilliant breaks in the far north of Scotland, with so much in between, there are plenty of places to spend a tranquil weekend break.
As we all know too well, the office environment can quickly inspire dreams of running away and escaping to the countryside. Hours spent in front of your desk getting or being shouted at by the boss for your latest misdemeanour can quickly have you surfing for the perfect idyllic country cottage. The rest of the afternoon, whilst you wait for the blessed hour of 5 to chime, is spent happily contemplating your new life with just a few cows and chickens and a couple of lurchers for company. However, by the time the weekend rolls around and Saturday is spent indulging in some hard core retail therapy you realise the countryside doesn’t come with a Harvey Nichols or even a House of Fraser and your daydream fades from your mind as you focus on the important things, namely shoes and the next episode of Downton Abbey.
Here at Michael Paul Holidays we understand longing for the simpler things in life and have identified the perfect, remote destinations to spend your weekend before heading back to reality.
No.1 The Scottish Highlands – Inverness-shire
The Scottish Highlands are not only extremely remote but extremely beautiful. A photographer's dream, the stunning landscape is awe-inspiringly wonderful with secret valleys, vast stretching lochs and dramatic peaks and crags.
Inverness-shire and Caithness are both excellent choices when staying in the Highlands. The town of Inverness is situated in the South of the highlands and known as the ‘Highland Capital’.
No.2 Devon – Lundy Island
Devon is hardly the undiscovered oasis you were imagining but Lundy Island which lies just 11 miles from the Devon coast is a veritable wild haven which you can scarcely believe exists so close to civilisation.
The true star of the show on Lundy Island is the wildlife. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to see dolphins riding the waves at the bow of the ship as you journey towards the island. Whilst you explore the island you can expect to see seals or in May or April, you might be able to see the resident puffin colonies, a spectacular sight for any wildlife enthusiast.
The ferries run from Ilfracombe, a typical British seaside town or you can stay on Lundy itself. We think this lighthouse self-catering accommodation looks amazing - especially with the views of the surrounding island and out to sea.
Image by Nilfanion
No.3 Mid Wales – Rhayader
Rhayader refers to a little known town in Mid Wales which is surrounded by the most beautiful lush green scenery. The River Wye runs past the town and on it are the 6 spectacular Elan Valley dams. There are 6 dams in total and each one is unique.The amazing spectacle of these beautiful structures attracts lots of walkers and photographers to the area.
The surrounding countryside consists of pretty woodland, rivers,
reservoirs and some moorland. The area has recently been awarded
International Dark Sky Park status demonstrating how wild and unspoilt this
area really is.
No.4 The Highlands – John O’Groats
For true untamed wilderness it has to be John O’Groats. Situated at the most Northern tip of Scotland the dramatic coastal landscape is breathtakingly beautiful and home to some of the most exotic marine life in the UK. Killer Whales are often seen not far from the coast and grey seals are a common sight in the area. Dunnet Head has a plethora of sea bird colonies including razorbills, guillemots and the iconic puffin. The unusual and distinctive coastal stacks carved by the sea have become symbolic of John O’Groats itself.
For a quiet and relaxing holiday in the UK in a semi-rural setting, consider staying in a secluded holiday home with surrounding countryside and nearby forests, lakes or lochs. You could stay in an amazing eco-lodge or a luxury Loch Lomond lodge with mountain views. Plan your escape today and recharge your batteries in nature.
