On the Devon/Cornwall border and hidden away from the everyday, Aurora is the perfect romantic retreat for nature lovers and those seeking a luxurious, discreet pad for two, with the sounds of the river Tamar, birds and wildlife to soundtrack your stay. Once part of the Duke of Bedford Estate, this lovely escape, accessed by a long country lane, is tucked amongst peaceful woodland and on the banks of the delightful Tamar River. Inside the pretty stone cottage, you'll find a sympathetically restored home stay with clean, modern interiors with touches of luxurious, romantic, vintage style. Outside, you will find a delightful terrace with a hot tub and sun loungers. Savour late night soaks beneath star-studded skies in inviting bubble-topped bliss. It's dog friendly too, meaning you can make the most of the astonishing, untouched countryside on your doorstep.
Living and eating
The downstairs living area is beautifully open plan to make the most of the cottage space. In it's centre you'll find a cosy wood burner, offering a warm welcome with it's golden, flickering light.
To the right of the fire lies the modern, stylish kitchen with black granite worktops and sleek white cupboards housing everything you'll need to rustle up romantic feasts for your loved one or for packing up a picnic and heading out into the wilderness for a secluded picnic. There's an electric hob and oven, microwave, dishwasher, fridge/freezer and a washer/dryer - essential after a country walk or two!
To the left of the fire lies the main living space with a huge, sumptuous sofa to sprawl on, an additional chair and lovely, nature-inspired artwork. There's also a TV for film nights and a simple circular dining table for two for lazy breakfasts, late lunches and decadent dinners.
Sleeping
After a day out exploring, take the winding stairs up into the eaves where you'll find a super-romantic county style bedroom for two. The king size bed is super-comfy and welcoming; you'll easily fall asleep to the sounds of the rustling trees, hooting owls and the gentle river passing by. Wake up super-refreshed by all the country air and enjoy lazy breakfasts in bed. Bliss!
Please note that due to the characterful nature of Aurora, the ceilings on the first floor can be low in places.
Bathing
Next to the bathroom you'll find the bathroom complete with a bath, overhead shower and heated rail to keep towels warm and fluffy.
Outdoor space
With its enviable position overlooking the River Tamar, the country garden has an elevated terrace to make the most of the wonderful, pastoral views. There's a hot tub, table, chairs and a fire pit that turns into a barbeque for alfresco dining and a double lounger for sunbathing a deux - best enjoyed with a glass in hand! This designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is teeming with wildlife, so keep a beady eye out for playful otters, kingfishers and herons who live on the riverbanks.
Should you be looking for additional accommodation, Demelza is in the same grounds as Aurora and is a wonderful option should you wish to travel with another couple, but each have your own private space. You can view Demelza here Demelza
And more!
Lucky you! Aurora is set within 35 acres of private land which belongs to the owners of this retreat and you will have free reign to explore this hidden away paradise. With untouched woodland of oak and beech trees, fields and riverbanks, you have the freedom to roam where you will. Perfect for nature enthusiasts, walkers or trail runners, or if you're not feeling very active, pack up a picnic and search out the perfect spot.
Access
Please note that access is via a long narrow lane with a two-metre width restriction.
Parking
There is private parking for up to two cars at Aurora.
Babies
Babes-in-arms are welcome - please bring your own equipment.
Dogs
One large or two small well behaved dogs are welcome at Aurora. Please note, there is an additional fee per dog, per week or short break.
WiFi
Aurora has WiFi so if you need to stay in touch with the outside world you can.
In the Area
At Aurora, you're perfectly located to explore the best of both worlds, being ideally located on the Devon/Cornwall border. Not far from the market town of Tavistock, the gateway to Dartmoor, and the former mining town of Gunnislake, there's plenty to see and do to keep you busy. Cotehele, owned by the National Trust, is a wonderful Tudor house with gorgeous gardens and its own quay. The Tamar Valley itself is a must, boasting some of the most beautiful landscape in Cornwall with an extensive network of footpaths to explore with routes to suit everyone, where the remains of over 100 copper mines can be found along the river. You're also only a short drive from Dartmoor in Devon or Bodmin Moor in Cornwall, which offer a rugged, contrasting countryside ideal for walks or exploring the pretty villages that are dotted throughout the wild landscape. If you fancy being close to the sea, there's Boscastle in north Cornwall and Polperro and Fowey on the south coast.