Escape to the country

Having recently tied the knot, my husband and I had a little week-long mini-moon the day after the wedding, but with the reality of being back at work, the school run and general 'life' just getting in the way, we welcomed the opportunity to stay at TreeTop Escape – and we certainly wasn't disappointed.

This idyllic haven, in the heart of Millbrook Estate, North Devon, is a luxurious hideaway high among the trees surrounded by glorious rolling hills; guests are free to explore the estate boasting two lakes, woods, streams and even resident alpacas, which we thoroughly enjoyed meandering around the property, and we were blessed with glorious weather to boot! The pictures on the website can't prepare you for the breathtaking beauty when seeing the 'tree house' with your own eyes. The panoramic views from the lounge, seen immediately as you enter the front door, certainly have the wow factor and you immediately become immersed in the landscape. Although the setting is idyllic the interior is also a feast for your eyes; an Italian designer kitchen, a free-standing William Holland copper bath, sumptuous king-size bedroom – there's a second bedroom too! – and stunning walk-in shower rooms which are all set against a stunning widescreen natural backdrop. What's more, each carefully designed space has been complemented with hi-tech sophistication 55inch flat-screen TV with full Sky+ package, BluRay player, Lutron mood-lighting, Sonos surround system and speakers, and electric curtains and voiles all controlled by iPads in each room, your stay here is effortless leaving you to completely relax and unwind.

The team at Millbrook strive to go above and beyond to ensure you get the very best from your stay; fresh bread was baking as we arrived, scented candles had been lit, there was coffee, milk, jam and butter, bath salts ready for you to take a dip and knowing we had recently got hitched, a bottle of champagne was chilling in the fridge – which certainly went down a treat later that evening in the hot tub! With these finer details carefully thought of including fluffy white bathrobes, GHD straighteners, and complimentary toiletries you have the luxuries of a first-class hotel with the freedom and intimacy of a private, self-catering retreat. My partner and I could have easily holed ourselves up here for a week without seeing a soul... bliss!

On cloud nine
For a truly memorable wedding, I'd also recommend Millbrook Estate for weddings – the property has become renowned for providing for intimate 'elopement' weddings. In particular, adjacent to the TreeTopEscape is The Nest: a stunning, exclusive wedding venue for up to 14 guests. It is linked to the treehouse by a romantic wooden walkway and boasts the same frameless glass balustrade, and eight-meter-wide glass doors across two sides. The Nest appears to float above the countryside, and is picturesque whatever the season; a verdant vista in spring and summer, autumn brings golden swirling leaves and a misty, atmospheric-vibe whilst winter offers sparkling frosty fields and the promise of snow.
Contact: www.treetopescape.co.uk | www.millbrookestate.co.uk