The Ripple Effect

The Ripple Effect: Gloucestershire

How's this for a lakeside lodge escape for two? Fringing the pretty village of South Cerney in a 55-acre private eco-reserve, this is as peaceful and uncrowded as it gets, folks.

Inside, you can tell an architect has been working their wizardry. Designed to squeeze out every inch of those serene lake views through the floor-to-ceiling windows, you won't find a single curtain or blind in this home (don't worry, this place offers complete privacy). So you can wake up each morning from the super king sized bed of the magnificent galleried bedroom to transcendent views of the water, trees, and sky.

Warm summer mornings call for lazy breakfasts on the alfresco terrace as the resident swans swim up to the deck to bid you a good morning. And imagine this place in winter with the log-burner crackling and the mist rising over the water.

You won't have far to go when it's time for some fun on the water or lakeside walks. Lying adjacent to Cotswold Water Park, there's a recreational lake just a five-walk away for kayaking, paddle boarding, and wild swimming. Or try your hand fishing straight off your deck.

If you're after a bite to eat, the Roman market town of Cirencester (a twelve-minute drive) is an afternoon well spent. Keep things local at the village pubs for upper-crust grub. Or just hunker down at home and cook up your own feast – that view might be all the ambience you need.

Home truths:
*A car is recommended here
*There’s ample private parking outside the property
*You’ll have your own private entrance and check-in with a lockbox and code
*The lodge is strictly for adults only
*Please note that there are no blinds/curtains, so you may consider bringing your eye/sleep mask
*As this home is entirely open plan, there is no bathroom door which might not suit the prudish
*Wood is provided for the log-burner
*The lake next to the lodge is not suitable for swimming or diving – the recreational lake is just a five-minute walk though
*There’s a grocery store a five-minute drive away to pick up essentials