Kudhva, Cornwall
The scene(ry) Kudhva, meaning ‘hideout’ in Cornish, is a 45-acre disused quarry in north Cornwall. That might not sound much like a natural paradise, but believe us – this place is incred. Nature’s been allowed to do its thing unhindered, which gives the place a wilderness vibe – full of crashing waterfalls, unfettered grassland and rugged forest. Popular surfing beaches are less than a mile away.
Natural benefits Improve your circulation, immune system and brain power with a guided wild swim in the lake, feel the power of nature beneath a 40ft waterfall then enjoy a natural meditation with a surfing lesson – the Mud Van, Kudhva’s 1978 Ford pickup, will drop you at the beach. Let your worries melt away in a wood-fired hot tub, get your hands dirty on a foraging session (research says bacteria found in soil may lower stress and fight inflammation) and hike along the coast path to inhale beneficial negative ions in the air and snap beautiful headland views.
Choose from one of four futuristic-looking, off-grid cabins (kudhvas) raised above the ground. Each is hidden in woodland, completely private and basic-yet-comfortable, with a campfire to cook on, wood-fired hot tub and luxury linen. Need a few more creature comforts? There are communal showers, toilets and a kitchen in the reception area, where you can also charge your phone – though coverage is sketchy and you’re encouraged to part company from phones, anyway. Foodwise, an organic breakfast hamper is a must-order and there are great restaurants nearby if cooking on a campfire gets old – like the St Moritz Hotel’s beautiful sea-view restaurant, a 15-minute drive away. If you’re travelling with a group, there’s a Danish cabin for six to hire, or try a shanti tipi in a meadow with sea and valley views. Two-night minimum stay in a kudhva, from £244; kudhva.com.