Clearly an idyllic choice for the young, erudite professional, the Woodbyne Hotel offers a perfect antidote to the day to day minutiae of urban existence. A quintessentially country retreat in essence, albeit with a contemporary twist. Heavily design-led and style conscious, the Woodbyne Hotel is a million miles away from the twee, fastidiousness found in the country retreats of yester-year. Hosts Jeff and Annette extend a warm welcome to their one-of-a-kind residence. Although not from what might be considered a classically hotelier background (Jeff is a chartered accountant. Annette, a graduate in archaeology) they have courageously taken on the long and arduous task of planning and running the hotel themselves. Their excellent taste and attention to detail can be found from the stunning Art Deco decor right through to the painstakingly maintained gardens. Despite their obvious personal investment in the hotel, they make for refreshingly discreet hosts. Left to your own devices, you may wish to sample the charmingly eclectic cuisine (a typical breakfast might consist of sliced avocado, smoked salmon and caper mayo on toast or chive frittata with sauteed mushrooms) or perhaps luxuriate besides the crystal-clear swimming pool which delightfully, looks as if it might have been transported directly from the set of the graduate. You may however, wish to simply take in the scenery and soak up the atmosphere. Rooms are spacious and airy, decorated in a warm, creamy colour palate. Each is elegantly furnished and well-appointed with King-size beds, stylish fittings, TVs and DVD players (although tellingly, no phones). Rooms overlook the luscious gardens, encompassing an air of tranquillity and peace. If you are in want of an escape from the rat race that matches sophistication with absolute relaxation, the Woodbyne Hotel might just be what you're looking for.
