Nestled right on the Two Moors Way and with far-reaching views of wild Exmoor, Elysium is a delightful cottage in Devon made for luxury seeking nature lovers.
Walk through the impressive gardens into Elysium's delightful interior, and you'll discover a home that's been exquisitely refurbished, combining the vintage charm of its 16th century heritage with modern touches sympathetic to the cottage aesthetic. Rich, jewel colours, exquisite antique furniture, wooden beams, and a cosy wood burner makes this a sumptuous stay, whilst outside the beautifully maintained gardens run to three quarters of an acre, so plenty of space to lose yourself on a sleepy summer's afternoon. It's also dog friendly, meaning there's room for everyone.
Set in the delightful village of West Anstey and in Europe's first Dark Sky Reserve, Elysium is a peaceful dwelling for those seeking to step away from the everyday for a while, to explore moorland paths such as the Two Moors Way. Discover pretty villages and sample wholesome local cuisine, and to get lost in the beauty of this extraordinary homestay.
Lower occupancy discount
A special 'Just for Two' rate applies outside of School holidays, Christmas, New Year and Easter, and other bank holidays. At Elysium the discount is 20%, this is on the basis that only the master bedroom is used during your stay. Please call the office on 01872 553491 if you have any questions or would like to book.
Living
The impressive sitting room is oh so comfortable, complete with two large, sumptuous brown velvet sofas with eye-catching blue trim, lustrous wood burner, armchair and coffee table. We just adore the 17th century chinoiserie grandfather clock and beautiful antique furnishings and artwork that adorn the room. After a busy day out exploring, this is a wonderful spot to retire to after dinner to spend time with each other, preferably with a glass of something special in hand. Alternatively, there's a 50" Smart TV for catching up with your favourite box set or film.
Eating
The exquisite kitchen, in gorgeous tones of blue, boasts a fabulous Rayburn set into the original inglenook fireplace (turned off between Easter and October), plus a Belfast sink, central wooden topped island, separate induction hob, electric oven, American style fridge-freezer, microwave, dishwasher, and washer-dryer as well as the all-important Nespresso coffee machine to help you wake up in the morning. With all the equipment you could possibly need, even the most demanding chef will be satisfied. There's also a washer and dryer in a separate laundry room, opposite the downstairs cloakroom.
Leading from the kitchen lies the beautiful dining room, where the stunning oak dining table easily seats six in front of a wonderful wood burner, creating a soothing ambience on cooler days, and the perfect setting for Christmas! In addition, there's a lovely window seat for gazing out of, an impressive antique dresser and more of the owner's art collection.
Sleeping
There are three stunning double bedrooms, one with an adjoining single bed or dressing room, each beautifully decorated in subtle country palettes and soft floral designs, all found up the stairs on the first floor along the characterful hallway bedecked with Grade II listed cruck beams.
The master bedroom has a gorgeous bed knobs and broomsticks queen-sized bed with antique wardrobe, two windows, striking wooden floor, a sitting area with armchair for a peaceful moment with a morning cup of tea, television, radio and an en suite bathroom.
The second bedroom lies at the other end of the house and boasts a double bed, dual aspect windows and a television. The third bedroom has a delightful double bed, radio and sliding doors to a dressing area which is also home to a single bed, perfect for a little one.
Each of the beds come swathed in luxurious linen, super-comfy bedding and sumptuous cushions and throws to ensure a blissful nights' sleep and there's plenty of storage to stow away belongings.
Bathing
As well as the en suite bathroom for the master bedroom which has a deep tub for long soaks and handheld shower, there is a first-floor family bathroom with bath and separate shower and a ground floor cloakroom. Heated rails ensure towels are kept warm and fluffy.
Outdoor space
The stunning south-facing garden overlooks the pretty village of West Anstey and extends to three quarters of an acre. Beautifully maintained with plentiful flowers, shrubs and trees, there's a large pond and a spring fed stream that runs through the garden, whilst seating is provided with a three-seat sofa, two arms and a coffee table - the perfect spot for afternoon tea - or the dining table and six chairs - an idyllic setting for meals alfresco. At the lower level there are two steamer loungers with a fire pit plus a stream below. With views over this historic church of St Petrock and the countryside beyond, you'll never want to leave!
Parking
There is plenty of private parking for several cars on the long driveway.
Read all about it!
Want to know what it's like to stay at Elysium? Read our blog here.
Babies and children
Children over the age of 10 are very welcome. The garden has a deep pond and a stream, so please always supervise children.
Dogs
One well behaved dog is most welcome at Elysium. Please note, there is an additional fee per dog, per week or short break.
In the Area
Elysium is set in the pretty village of West Anstey close to South Molton, known as the gateway to Exmoor, set just one mile from the southern boundry. The village of Dulverton is just five miles away and has several good pubs with dining as well as catering to all your shopping needs.
Being in such a beautiful, unspoilt spot, you have a host of places to visit and things to do. Walkers can don their boots and take to the many paths, trails and tracks that traverse Exmoor, where rolling hills and wide vistas abound, or for the brave why not try a spot of wild swimming?
Alternatively, pack a picnic and head for the delightful North Devon coastline, where pretty sandy beaches abound, perfect for a day's swimming and relaxing, followed by a barbeque and watching the stars blanket the skies above.
Exmoor is dotted with lovely villages to explore, many pubs and tea rooms to tempt you and a host of activities to keep you entertained all day, before returning tired but happy to Elysium - just perfect.
