LoginGetting ‘Off Grid’
Modern life can be hugely overwhelming, in every sense of the word. We’re beholden to our mobile phones, we can’t resist checking our emails, our default method of ‘switching off’ is to sit in front of the TV and usually the first thing we do when we reach any destination is check for an internet connection. Simultaneously, our anxiety levels are rising, our sleep patterns are getting worse and the youth of today seems increasingly more interested in social media than in actually being sociable.
So what’s to be done? There’s no getting away from the fact that the world is more reliant on technology but we CAN control how much we engage in it - and what better way to kick start a digital detox than to visit one of our ‘off grid’ One Off Places?
A Seaside Smallholding
Set within 70 acres of private land which includes half a mile of its own coastline, Windsworth is a secluded and beautiful Cornish smallholding where you can enjoy sea views, rare wildlife and total tranquillity. There’s no mains electricity or gas but there’s still plenty of lighting and hot water - and we guarantee you will be more than happy to exchange a hairdryer and WiFi for books, board games and a wood-fired hot tub under the stars. And when you’re feeling adventurous you can clamber down the steep scree path to the beach below!
Into the Woods
‘Green Tourism’ is all the rage and where better to experience it than in one of the greenest countries there is, Northern Ireland? Birch Eco Cottage is a sensitive construction of local timbers and reclaimed materials with everything (from the tap water to the cosy under floor heating) run on solar and wind power. And with mountains on one side and forests on the other, there’s no shortage of wonderful walks to discover. Fresh air, birdsong and privacy - what could be more enchanting?
Glamping on the Welsh Borders
Glamping is a classic way to go ‘off grid’ and you’d be hard pressed to find a more luxurious rustic retreat than this handcrafted shepherd’s hut in Wales. Interiors include a wood-fired stove and a compost WC, outside there is an upcycled hot tub, and on your doorstep there are far reaching views across the Brecon Beacons. Whether you’re wild swimming in the river, visiting the literary town of Hay-on-Wye or simply toasting marshmallows on the fire pit, this is a superbly picturesque and romantic spot.
The Essence of Eco
Set within rescued woodland and once featured in the Guardian for its impressive eco credentials, this forest cabin in Devon is impressively sustainable and captivatingly convivial. Inside, it is characterised by striking wooden features (oak, holly and cherry all feature), outside you will find a BBQ and a hammock in which to while away the hours, and your closest neighbours take the form of owls, buzzards, deer and badgers. Spoiler alert: there is WiFi - but you’re unlikely to either want or need it.
Off grid escapes aren’t for everyone, but if you want to reconnect with nature, with loved ones or with yourself, then a few days out of circulation will do wonders for the spirit. And whose soul doesn’t need a little soothing from time to time? Go on, switch off that phone…