Set in the idyllic Dorset countryside, Well Cottage owners, Nathan and Laura Kurton have creatively and lovingly redefined the concept of the all-inclusive holiday. Serena Templeton meets the couple and enjoys a taste of staycation innovation
It’s not often that holiday expectations are redefined before you even arrive at your destination, but for guests of English Cottage Vacation, the experience goes far beyond the traditional concept of a luxury catered getaway. Aspirational hosts Nathan and Laura Kurton liken their approach to an “appanage”, a term used to best describe the joy of getting away from it all in unadulterated comfort and style. Laura explains: “Appanage” is a tailor-made, ultraluxurious, completely private holiday experience – one that’s also all-inclusive in price.” For us, it’s all about the level of personal care, attention to detail and professional discretion that our guests can enjoy to the full staying here; it’s one that elevates the experience above other luxury alternatives. You could say, it’s where quintessential English hospitality meets exceptional service.”
Ideally placed in the bijou hamlet of Bedchester close to Cranborne Chase and Dorset Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Well Cottage certainly hits the spot for charm; an 18th-century, thatched gem complete with roaring open fires and gourmet dining.
Not only do guests have carte blanche over how they spend their time, whether it’s relaxing with a good book in the privacy of the cottage garden or cherry-picking from the selection of day-trips available spanning horse riding, clay pigeon shooting and golf to guided visits of local heritage sites, the choice is entirely yours. Nathan and Laura’s only priority is “guests’ happiness.”
It’s perhaps not altogether surprising that the couple have created such a successful enterprise. Having spent 10 years working on high-end, charter yachts, they decided to hone their luxury hospitality skillset by replicating the ultimate exclusive package clients would expect but in a stunning country setting.
Adds Nathan: “Laura is very detail orientated and ensures guests are taken care of from the moment they step through the door, from taking their coats to daily room servicing.
She also hugely enjoys the role of personal chef, offering a tailormade, gourmet dining experience for guests on a full board basis, with additional unlimited drinks and snacks whenever guests so choose. I equally relish the multi-faceted role of private chauffeur, tour guide, waiter and barman. It’s incredibly rewarding.”
Guests are also spoiled for choice when it comes to activities and places to visit, with several of England’s most scenic landmarks in the locale, including Durdle Door on the Jurassic Coast and Cheddar Gorge in Somerset.
Alongside the medieval city of Wells, Downton Abbey’s real-life double Highclere Castle, Longleat House and Gardens, Salisbury Cathedral, Stonehenge and Avebury World Heritage Site, are just a few of the many iconic attractions just a short drive away.
As to the best part, for Laura and Nathan, the answer is simple: “You won’t have to lift a finger during your stay.
We offer 2 package options, our All Inclusive package with personal chauffeur and private car. All excursions and tickets to local attractions and historic sites are included in the price of your stay.”
Rather drive yourself and plan your own outings? No problem. Our staycation package will suit you perfectly. Adds Laura: “No request is too large or too small: from a dram of whisky by the fire to a meticulously planned feast or a differently themed a afternoon tea each day, your wishes will be realised. Well Cottage really is where your English holiday dreams can come true.”
For more information, please visit www.englishcottagevacation.com or contact Nathan and Laura at info@englishcottagevacation.com.
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