Unique Retreats from Handpicked Cottages
Do you like the idea of a unique or even quirky place to stay? Here at Handpicked Cottages, we’ve curated a collection of characterful holiday properties and these original and beautiful places will certainly make memories (and talking points).
Before you browse our collection of Unique Retreats, we’ve compiled a few pointers to help you choose your holiday-with-a-difference. Here’s a taste of the often distinctive – and always luxurious – accommodation on offer.
Characterful conversions
There’s something particularly appealing about a converted holiday cottage. Former chapels, churches and schools have lofty, spacious rooms, often with unusual architectural details like beams and decorative stonework. Windows come with mullions and tracery or even stained glass, while heavy old doors and worn stone floors are evocative reminders of the building’s past life.
Expect truly unique conversions among our collection, from follies to farm buildings. Towers and windmills give you wonderful views as well as pleasingly unusual interiors, and former rectories and gatehouses are quietly elegant. If you’ve always fancied staying in your own castle, we can even make that happen (right down to crenellated battlements or turrets).
Road, river and rail
Some of the most charming conversions didn’t begin life as buildings. More unusual holiday properties include moored boats and converted railway carriages, as well as little lodges inspired by old Romani wagons. A wood-panelled barge offers attractive and cosy accommodation, or look out for a moored yacht if you fancy something more luxe. Fans of retro style will love a refurbished Airstream, with its sleek interior and gleaming finishes.
If you like the romantic idea of travel-themed accommodation but would prefer to stay in a more conventional building, we have some beautiful former coach houses, stables and boathouses among our Unique Retreats collection. Boat houses in particular make wonderful places to stay, with their unbeatable waterside settings and distinctive architecture.
Quirky cabins
We all crave cosiness and the idea of a snug wooden cabin or shepherd’s hut is ever-so appealing, especially if it’s nestled among trees or on the shores of a lake. Added features such as outdoor kitchens, fire pits and hot tubs bring an extra sense of adventure.
Search out grass-roofed burrows where hobbits feel at home, or head for the heights with a luxurious treehouse. Inspired by Scandi-style dwellings, these are often characterised by clean, modern decor featuring lots of wood and a light and airy feel. For younger guests (and the young at heart), try a treehouse with a built-in slide. It will certainly speed up the task of getting the kids into the car…
Elegant estates
Escape to the country estate with a holiday in a manor house (or part of a larger property). If you’re staying as a party, a country house will certainly elevate the occasion while making sure that everyone has plenty of comfortable space. We also have a selection of historic townhouses, which again, have room for everyone in luxurious surroundings.
Do you love the idea of a great estate but prefer cosy accommodation? Look out for lodges, gatehouses or converted staff cottages in the grounds. You’ll still get to experience life on the estate, but on a smaller scale. Some of these properties are dog-friendly, with the most fantastic spaces for exercise and walks right on your doorstep.
Luxurious locations
Sometimes, the location is as unique – or even more so – than the accommodation. Think woodland glades, remote headlands or even islands. Some of our Unique Retreats are in secluded spots (perfect for honeymoons and romantic getaways), while others are in sought-after town and city settings. You might want a stylish townhouse within walking distance of restaurants, or a bothy on an island where you won’t see another soul for a week: we offer every sort of holiday.
You could also think about a luxury cabin or cottage in a park, which gives you the added benefit of shared facilities such as swimming pools, spas and playgrounds. Look out for lakeside, woodland and coastal retreats, which make perfect bases for outdoorsy or family holidays.
Explore Unique Retreats by Handpicked Cottages
From the cool to the quirky, from historic homes to hobbit-like hideaways, we have a wonderful selection of unique retreats at Handpicked Cottages. Enjoy looking through our Unique Retreats collection – we’re sure you’ll find your perfect place.
