Horseshoe Shepherd's Lodge

Let your imagination run wild and free, and embrace some time away from everyday life at quintessential Horseshoe Shepherd’s Lodge.

Truly bespoke, this hand-crafted hideaway has been built to the highest standard and is larger than your average shepherd’s hut (9ft high internally, to be exact). You’ll find your hideaway at the top of its own private, enclosed, quarter of an acre garden and orchard- perfect for those travelling with four-legged friends. 200 acres of ancient unspoilt woodland surround the lodge- with carpets of bluebells in the spring and wildlife that will open your eyes to the natural world when you tune into it, and on top of that, wild swimming in the river at the bottom of the valley.

Add in the hot tub set into the wide deck, the super-sized en suite shower, the king-sized bed, wood-burning stove and beautifully designed kitchen, and you’ll see that this hideaway was made for those seeking a little bit of luxury in nature.

The owners have gone the extra mile to think of every small detail. From ensuring the outside space is completely private to incorporating all the creature comforts you could think of that will guarantee a special experience throughout the year. They’ve even provided original Sahara Desert jackets for those chillier evenings and luxury spa robes with slippers so you can relax in comfort after a dip in the hot tub. There is a private lane and dedicated entrance to the orchard, ensuring this special space is for no one but you. The double doors of the shepherd’s hut open onto a 7ft wide wrap-around deck - your own sundown terrace. Delicate outside lighting ensures that the atmosphere is perfect for a romantic getaway.

A stone's throw from Horseshoe Shepherd’s Lodge is picturesque Chittlehamholt village. This welcoming rural community offers a shop and a lovely, dog-friendly pub where you will receive a warm welcome. Chittlehamholt and its sister village of Chittlehampton are both easy to reach. The nearest market town is South Molton with its twice-weekly (Thursdays and Saturdays) pannier market and quirky independent shops.

For a blast of sea air, the nearest beach on the north Devon coast is just over half an hour away - miles of golden sand at Instow, which is dog friendly throughout the year. Across the estuary from Instow, you can use the seasonal passenger ferry to reach the historic fishing village of Appledore. For more beaches that welcome dogs year round, visit Saunton Sands and Crow Point. Woolacombe and Croyde are both worth a visit, especially if you like surfing, and both are dog-friendly during the winter months too.

There are several stunning, dog-friendly walks that can be accessed right from your doorstep. From a rewilded golf course (just a 3-minute walk away) to woodland trails at Shortidge Woods with winding paths leading down to the flowing river at Ruson.

For adventures a little further afield, beautiful Exmoor National Park is just half an hour away by car, and dramatic Dartmoor can be easily reached too (around an hour's drive). Or why not cycle the Tarka Trail from Braunton to Meeth near Hatherleigh.

For a total change in scenery, the Cathedral City of Exeter is nearby - don't fancy driving? Hop on a train for the 45-minute journey to the city along the beautiful Tarka Line. Closer to home, the Mole Resort is within walking distance of the hideaway and offers tennis, a spa, a gym, a bar and a fine dining restaurant. If you would like to start your day feeling relaxed and energised, how about booking a private yoga session at your hideaway? This can be arranged prior to your stay, and the session can be adapted to your experience. For booking information, please contact Sian on her website, sianwilliamsyoga.co.uk

Days out and activities apart, we believe that Horseshoe Shepherd's Lodge is somewhere you can park up the car and just 'be' for a little while. Relax in the hot tub, picnic in the woods, swim in the river and restore your soul at this welcoming haven.