Your Bristol & Somerset Wedding - Jun/Jul 2019 (Issue 71)

115 HONEYMOON AWAY FROM IT ALL Does anyone remember the freakishly good weather we had at the end of February? I do, because the husband and I were lucky enough to be enjoying a stay at Strawberryfield Park in one of the most beautiful parts of the country. The Blue Chip Holidays five-star resort offers up an idyllic slice of Somerset life, with its 14 acres of rural countryside views and 23 eco lodges. Available for short breaks and week-long holidays, it’s ideally suited to a mini-moon or a relaxing stay with the girls before the big day. Some nearlyweds are even staying here the night before their weddings and using the spacious, high-end lodges as the perfect place for pre-vow prep. For Cal and I, though, we were there to celebrate our two-and-a-half-year wedding anniversary with three days of sun, scenery and cider. YOUR HOME FROM HOME These architect-designed lodges are like nowhere else I’ve stayed. Brimming with high-end features such as Bang & Olufsen audio and visual equipment, designer appliances and an elegant Villeroy & Boch bathroom, I’m sure our open-plan accommodation, The Spinney, is bigger than my first home! We were blown away by the outside space too. The huge decked terrace is the ideal spot for al fresco dining after a dip in the sunken Jacuzzi. I was particularly taken by the twinkling starlit canopy – a romantic touch that made the area even more magical. The focus on sustainability is a way of life here, and it’s in keeping with the picturesque surroundings. The location is just about perfect for a trip to Somerset. A stone’s throw from the tourist hotspots of Cheddar, Wells and Wookey Hole, it’s also great for walkers and cyclists wishing to explore the incredible scenery nearby. If, like us, you fancy some old-fashioned seaside fun, then you’re a short drive from Weston-super-Mare too. A LITTLE R&R Whatever the reason for your stay, you must indulge in a treatment from the talented Rachel at Green Pamper Co. A girl after my own heart, she sources cruelty-free, non-synthetic and environmentally friendly products. I chose the scent of oil I wanted and went through my needs with Rachel – I get terrible knots in my shoulders – so she could tailor the experience to my requirements. To say I was relaxed as she worked her magic in the comfort of our own lodge is the understatement of the century. In fact, I may have nodded off – although I’m assured that’s the utmost compliment to your therapist! Rachel even treated me to a manicure. I felt like a new woman afterwards as I reclined outside on a lounger in my fluffy bath robe and soaked up the unseasonable rays. HANNAH’S MUST-DOS The setting was once a strawberry farm. Now owned by the lovely Mike, it has retained a few nods to its previous life, including the transformation of its old farm shop into the brilliantly quirky Cider Barn at the top of the park. It was here that we met Mike and sank a couple of pints of the region’s favourite tipple while getting his lowdown on some of the best things to do in the area. Here are our top tips: ❤ Cheddar Gorge. This awe-inspiring beauty spot is just down the road from the park. Grab some delicious local cheese from the village on the way back. ❤ The Queen Vic Priddy . Head to this quaint pub for a traditional Cheddar cheese ploughman’s. ❤ The Cider Barn. Located at the top of the park, my husband and I managed to fit in three visits here in as many days. A rustic atmosphere, live music, friendly locals and delicious cider await. ❤ Wells market. The most delicious local produce is on offer in the pretty setting of one of England’s smallest cities. We loved devouring our haul on the terrace at the lodge. RUN TO THE HILLS Editor Hannah Faulder is truly spoilt with a stay in a contemporary eco lodge at Strawberryfield Park in the Mendip Hills To book your stay, head to strawberryfieldpark.co.uk or call 01934 533 280 Treatment from Green Pamper Co.