The UK is Not Just About History and Cities. It is About the Untamed Beauty of the Great Outdoors.
There is something deeply restorative about the British countryside. Whether it is the dramatic peaks mirroring in the waters of the Lake District or the Atlantic crashing against the cliffs of Cornwall, these are places where you go to reset.
At The Expat Tours, we know that “getting back to nature” does not have to mean sacrificing comfort. We select Lakeside Lodges and Coastal Hotels that offer the perfect equilibrium of wild beauty and serious luxury.
1. The Lake District: A Painter’s Dream
If you love mountains reflected in mirror-like water, this is your sanctuary.
It is Beatrix Potter country, defined by emerald green valleys, dry stone walls, and sheep grazing on the hillsides. We seek out hotels situated right on the water’s edge, like Lake Windermere or Ullswater. The routine here is simple but effective. Spend your day hiking the “fells” or taking a vintage steamer boat across the lake. Return to your lodge for a hot bath and a hearty dinner while watching the sun slip behind the peaks.
2. Cornwall: The Rugged Coast
Head to the far south-west and you will find Cornwall. It feels almost like a different country with its own balmy microclimate and distinct culture.
This is Poldark territory, a landscape of dramatic granite cliffs, powder-soft sandy beaches, and charming fishing villages. We choose hotels perched precariously on the cliffs or tucked into bustling harbor towns like St Ives or Padstow. It is also the seafood capital of the UK. You will be eating the freshest fish of your life, often enjoyed right on the harbor wall while watching the boats come in.
3. The Art of Coziness
The best part of these trips is often the feeling of total sanctuary. British weather can be wild, but that is central to the charm. There is nothing better than being tucked up inside a warm, comfortable lodge with a cup of tea or a glass of good red wine while watching the rain sweep across the landscape outside. It makes you feel safe, settled, and entirely removed from the real world.
4. Your Pace, Your Rules
You can do as much or as little as you desire.
The active traveler can go sea kayaking, surfing, or climb Scafell Pike, which is England’s highest mountain. The relaxed traveler can visit a local St Ives art gallery, wander through a sub-tropical garden, or just sit by a panoramic window and watch the tides change.
Breathe In the View
Escape the noise and find your quiet place.
???? The “Gourmet Rambler” Idea We know the rooms with the best views, whether you wish to wake up to a glassy lake or the churning ocean. Book your Nature Escape with us, and we can arrange a gourmet picnic hamper for your day out. It will be packed with local artisanal cheeses, crusty bread, and treats to enjoy on a hilltop or a secluded beach.