A Secret Retreat!

99-SECOND READ

'Within you, there is a stillness and a sanctuary to which you can retreat at any time and be yourself.'

Hermann Hesse

A luxury getaway in the Devon countryside. It's only just become available and right now it's still a secret...

Whether you go by yourself or with your partner, I want you to prioritise QUALITY time. Switch off, immerse yourself in nature, reconnect, sleep, rest, read, swim, walk, think - gently stimulate your senses and recharge your mind and body.

You will be staying in a beautifully restored barn conversion. Complete with a super-king bed, giant bath, infinity shower, vaulted ceilings, underfloor heating, exposed walls, and raised deck with views across Dartmoor. Here's the story of how this special place came about...

At 55 years old David & Georgia decided to pursue a new goal. They had comfort and stability, and a life in the Berkshire countryside that many people would envy. But it wasn't what they really wanted.

So they bought a cottage with a few acres of land and some outbuildings on the top of a hill, just 5 miles from Dartmoor National Park in Devon.

They left their jobs and started a new life.

They expanded on David's hobby - setting up a business selling honey locally and teaching people how to keep bees. Fueled by their passion for the outdoors, craftsmanship and horticulture they worked for the next 4 years to transform the buildings and gardens.

They created an award winning Airbnb - a place for people to come from all over the country to relax and enjoy tranquillity.

Then they began restoring a crumbling 250yo barn. They carefully designed it to preserve the original character and features. They reused, reclaimed and recycled materials from the barn and around Devon.

There were some stressful times and strenuous work. When Brexit inflated the prices of materials, the cost of restoration escalated, but they found ways to keep going. Eventually letting the builders go and finishing it alone. It was hard, but they learned new skills and discovered just how much they were capable of.

I know all this because David & Georgina are my parents, and I'm extremely proud and grateful to them for inspiring me, and everyone who visits Higher Kellacott to follow their passions.

• You are never too old or too young to prioritise the life YOU want. Happiness comes from working towards the goals you believe in.

You can view it here.

Give yourself this opportunity to disconnect. You deserve it.

P. S. I'm writing this sitting on The Old Barn decking, looking out across fields where sheep, chickens and geese are grazing, my ears are filled with birdsong and the morning sun is warming my face.

Time slows down here. I highly recommend it.

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