Tucked away treat in heart of Sherwood

I guess if you live by the sea it just blends into the background and the same could be said for woodland and forest.

Very often we are just all too busy getting on with our day to day routines and running on the treadmill of life that we don’t take time out of our hectic schedules to absorb our surroundings.

We are usually only reminded of our area’s attributes when we have visitors from further afield who want to explore what is on offer. At these times we get to see our regular views from an alternative perspective.

But don’t wait until your long-lost relatives come for a trip before enjoying what is on your doorstep.

We were reminded of Sherwood’s treasures when I was invited for a weekend retreat staying in the new log cabins at Sherwood Hideaway.

Set on the former site of the Proteus Army Training Camp, off the A614, are a variety of luxury lodges on the Thoresby Estate.

The site has become another option for places to stay whilst exploring the district as demand for accommodation is set to increase with the development plans for the new visitors’ centre.

With huge investment on the way for our Site of Special Scientific Interest, a surge of visitors is anticipated and undoubtedly this is why more places to stay are cropping up around the area.

And not before time, as for too long the county has lacked a real drive to attract tourists on a larger scale to the district with money in their pockets to spend in the local economy and the much-needed jobs boost it will also bring.

Sherwood Hideaway will undoubtedly compete with Forest Holidays in neighbouring Sherwood Pines and Center Parcs for self-catering accommodation in Sherwood.

Here you can choose between their rustic, contemporary and traditional log cabins – each are comfy and lavishly styled and many of the lodges include an indulgent hot tub under the stars.

The cabins are luxurious and very much a home from home with all the modern facilities and fixtures that make it comfortable and extras like the hot tub and Molten Brown toiletries make it a real treat.

During our stay, not only did we have fun in the hot tub overlooking woodland but took time out to explore by walking to Thoresby Hall and the Stables that houses several shops, a museum, cafe and much more.

It gave the children time to run, climb and exert some energy and for us to appreciate the beautiful countryside around us with woodland, wild flowers, fields, country houses, ancient chapels and historical landmarks.

The weather was unseasonably kind to us during our stay, which was a definite blessing, but I guess if you sat around waiting for good weather in this country you wouldn’t get out much.

The cabins are in a great position for exploring the region or simply hiding away as a retreat from reality.

However you choose to spend your stay, you can be assured it will be spent in luxury that brings nature to your doorstep without the discomfort of letting it in.

For more information about Sherwood Hideaway contact 01623 824594 or visit www.sherwoodhideaway.com.