Safe haven

Burnbake Forest is surrounded by dramatic coastlines, blue flag beaches, sandy coves and outstanding natural beauty.
With overseas holidays out of the question for a while at least, a short break or staycation at Burnbake is the perfect antidote to weeks of wall-climbing lockdown.

Burnbake, on the Isle of Purbeck in Dorset, is a tranquil oasis. A headland peninsula bordered by coast and part of Britain’s very first ‘super’ National Nature Reserve so rich in wildlife, that there are more species of flora and fauna than anywhere else in the country.

Burnbake’s 22 two and three bedroom lodges are bespoke, award-winning and architect designed to immerse you in a safe, natural woodland environment. Unlike other lodges, they are not simply a mobile home decked out in wooden panels, squeezing in tiny bedrooms where you do battle to make up the do-it-yourself beds.

Chic and contemporary, Burnbake lodges are a spacious haven of luxury. Each positioned well away from your closest neighbour. Social distancing comes as standard. Inside you will find quality oak furniture, ensuite bathrooms, rainfall showers and a full kitchen. There is a log burner to cosy by and a steaming hot tub bubbling on your private terrace. Beds are made ready for you to tumble into, with soft robes in the king size master bedroom and enough fluffy towels for everyone.

If lockdown has taught us anything, it is to value the simple things. From the comfort of your decked terrace, watch rare birds going about their daily business. Enjoy the pleasure of Burnbake bunnies hopping close by. A pheasant may indeed strut up to say hello and you are sure to spot a deer or two hiding in the trees! Let your mind wander as you look up to admire thought provoking cloud formations, or, as night falls, an inky sky plump full of stars.

Rosy-cheeked children, will discover a new sense of freedom, enjoying good old fashioned play, beavering by the stream or foraging in the forest. Glorious walks and rides abound with miles of footpaths, cycle routes and bridleways right on your doorstep. And there are plenty of active, adrenaline pumping land and sea based pursuits on offer making the most of Purbeck’s natural features.

This stunning part of Dorset sits at the gateway to the World Heritage Jurassic coastline. Victorian doctors used to prescribe sickly patients a stay by the sea to lift their spirits. There can be few places more mood-boosting than the diverse beauty of the Purbeck shoreline. The stunning National Trust beaches of Studland and Shell Bay are within easy reach. And at nearby RSPB Arne, the walk to the gorgeous sweep of sand known as Shipstal Beach is so idyllic it evokes images of Robinson Crusoe.

For foodies, Purbeck is tasty! Staycationers can enjoy the best in local produce. Purbeck in particular is known for its rich venison, divine Chococo chocolate and delicious Purbeck Ice Cream. Within just a few minutes drive, you will fall upon the impossibly pretty village of Corfe and it’s mighty Castle, the seaside resort of Swanage and the quaint, Saxon town of Wareham. Sumptuous picnics can be created and BBQs stocked with fresh local produce on offer from their urban farm shops, butchers, fishmongers and artisan bakers.

With so many stunning natural features to shout about, Burnbake is ripe for the most perfect no-fly staycation. To spend time here allows you to enjoy the regions great outdoors at your own pace.

Come, blow away those lockdown cobwebs, let your heart soar.

A therapeutic break at Burnbake is just the tonic.