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October 2023 Newsletter

Warm greetings from a very autumnal Well Cottage!

As the golden hues of October settle in, we’re gearing up for a spirited Halloween celebration at Well Cottage. If you’re ever considering a visit with your little ghouls and goblins, prepare for a festive spree: pumpkin carving, house decorating, and delightful Halloween-themed treats!

While our Halloween may seem quintessential, November 5th is actually a more important date here – commemorating Guy Fawkes’ attempt to blow up the Parliament! Local children once wheeled his effigy through streets, a tradition marking this poignant moment in English history where instead of asking “trick or treat?” children begged “Penny for the guy?”

Want to know more? Watch this!

Now, on to our latest news – let’s dive right in!

Contents

ECV English Christmas scene
  • Yuletide Magic: Dorset’s Dazzling Festive Lights & Limited Cottage Availability!
  • Stride into Dorset’s Beauty: Uncover Our 7-Night Countryside Walking Adventure!
  • 2024 Calendar Filling Up! Book Now To Avoid Disappointment!
  • Featured excursion: Divine Durdle Door on the Jurassic Coast!
  • The Ultimate Shared Cottage Experience! NEW 2024 DATES RELEASED!
  • Tell Us All About It! Share Your Wants & Needs For Your Perfect English Vacation!
  • A Taste of Well Cottage: Laura’s  English Pumpkin Soup Recipe
  • Guest Voices: Reviews and Testimonials
  • This Month’s FAQ: ‘How much cash should I bring?’
  • Last Word: Final Thought from Nathan & Laura

WATCH! Discover Dorset’s Dazzling Christmas Spectacle

Dorset transforms into an enchanting winter wonderland every festive season, with towns and villages twinkling beneath captivating displays of lights and decorations.

This recent video from the official Visit Dorset YouTube channel captures the magic brilliantly, showcasing the spectacular light shows and shimmering decorations that bedeck our gorgeous county. It’s a visual journey through the Yuletide spirit of Dorset, and a vivid reminder of the charm and warmth that await visitors during this special time of year.

Fancy experiencing this festive splendour first hand? Good news! From 28th November to 5th December, 2023, English Cottage Vacation has opportunities to join our luxury Shared Cottage Experience. With one room already taken, only two remain, giving you a golden opportunity to bask in the glow of Dorset’s Christmas charm.

Moreover, for those desiring an even more exclusive experience, our Flagship luxury itinerary is available. Dive into an all-inclusive 7-night journey, tailor-made for groups up to six. Whether you fancy the set itinerary or wish to customise the duration of your stay, a world of luxury and festive delight awaits!

This Christmas, let Dorset and English Cottage Vacation craft your ultimate festive escape! Reach out for more details!

ECV festive illuminations

Discover Dorset on Foot: 7-Night Walking/Hiking Experience

For those with a passion for taking the scenic route, immerse yourself in our 7-Night Walking/Hiking Experience! From gentle strolls to invigorating hikes, there’s a perfect pace for every footstep. And don’t worry about going the distance; with our dedicated chauffeur/guide Nathan, you’re always just a call away from a comfy ride.

We’ve stitched this package from our love for the local landscapes, curating an itinerary that showcases Dorset’s most beautiful and historic footpaths. Venture through the literary wonders of Thomas Hardy Country or marvel at the breathtaking panoramas atop the Purbeck Ridgeway. Explore the ancient charm of Corfe Castle village and the historic remnants of its 11th-century fortress.

As with all our experiences, expect nothing less than sheer luxury! From our 24-hour VIP service to delectable meals crafted by gourmet chef Laura, every aspect promises indulgence. With Nathan’s personal touch, embark on walks and excursions flexibly tailored to your whims. Whether you’re keen on trekking the entirety of the Jurassic Coast or merely soaking up its sights over a pub lunch, Nathan ensures it’s seamless.

After days filled with adventure, retreat to the warm embrace of our cottage. Let the evening unravel with a tumbler of whisky by a roaring fire, board games or why not just settle down with a good book – Thomas Hardy’s enduring classic Tess of the d’Urbervilles for instance!

This all-inclusive package envelops you in comfort – right from our plush accommodation and gourmet feasts to transportation in a premium vehicle. And for an unbeatable value, the price starts from just $3,500 USD pp!

Ready to strap your walking boots on and venture into the picturesque heart of England? Reach out to Nathan and Laura right now! Our delightful trails await!

Secure Your 2024 Dream English Cottage Vacation!

ECV Well Cottage front

With the influx of returning guests and the enthusiasm of first-timers, our 2024 calendar is rapidly reaching its limit. Spots for next year are becoming a treasured commodity!

To immerse yourself in the Well Cottage charm next year, early reservations are highly recommended. We’re passionate about offering an unparalleled luxury experience to all, but to keep our promise of exclusivity, we have to cap the number of reservations.

Book now to avoid disappointment!

Featured Excursion: Divine Durdle Door On The Jurassic Coast

Durdle Door

Step back in time and discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Durdle Door, an emblematic wonder of the Jurassic Coast. Renowned as one of Dorset’s most photographed landmarks, this monumental natural limestone arch stands as a testament to nature’s power to shape, erode, and create masterpieces.

Its origins trace back to the waves that pierced through the rock, embodying the very essence of its name derived from the Old English word ‘thirl’, meaning to pierce.

Beyond the awe of the arch, your journey extends to the encompassing pebble beaches. On the West, the shores of Durdle Door offer a chance to meander and soak in the natural ambiance. To the East, the expanse of Man o’War Cove beckons, its landscape a vivid testament to the enduring allure of Dorset’s coastline. Whether you fancy a quiet stroll or simply want to sit and listen to the rhythmic dance of the waves, these beaches promise a tranquil escape amid nature’s embrace.

Your journey to this UNESCO World Heritage Site promises more than just picturesque views. With Nathan as your dedicated chauffeur and guide, not only will you travel in luxury, but you’ll also glean insights into the geological significance and tales that the region holds.

Let’s not forget the joys of traversing the footpath between Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove, a stunningly scenic trek that captivates over 200,000 walkers annually.

And when the day winds down, what could be more enticing than a glimpse of quintessentially English wonders nearby? From the captivating Lulworth Castle and the haunting beauty of the abandoned Tyneham village, to the quaint coastal pockets of Osmington Mills and Ringstead, the surprises never end.

Gear up, for next month we take you on another enthralling journey: The Cotswolds Uncovered, in our November issue. Stay tuned!

Explore all of our amazing excursions!

Lulworth Castle

Our Shared Cottage Experience – New 2024 Dates Released!

Along with our coveted exclusive, full cottage packages, our 7-Night Set Itinerary, Shared Cottage Experience offers folks the opportunity to book by the room— the epitome of all-inclusive luxury for solo travellers or couples looking for company and friendship during their luxury vacation!

This curated week-long getaway effortlessly weaves private relaxation with communal adventure. Enjoy the sanctuary of your bespoke room and en-suite, while also embracing social experiences and forming lasting connections with fellow guests!

Delve into the luxury room options we’ve tailored for this transformative sojourn:

  • Garden View Elegance: Find solace in a US King-size bed, a luxe en-suite shower, and expansive views of our lush garden and gorgeous countryside views.
    $9,500 USD (solo occ) and $11,000 USD (duo occ).
  • Countryside Haven: Embrace a US Queen-size bed, your own shower space, and gaze out over verdant landscapes.
    $6,500 USD (solo occ) and $9,500 USD (duo occ).
  • Soothing Solitude: Opt for either a US Queen bed or twin singles, complemented by a neighbouring bathroom and tranquil field views. $4,500 USD (solo occ) and $6,500 USD (duo occ).

Though 2024 is quickly booking up, here are some dates still awaiting your presence!

NEW RELEASE:

  • April 26th – May 3rd, 2024: 3 rooms available
  • July 22nd – July 29th, 2024: ONLY Bedroom 3 available

NEW RELEASE:

  • November 27th – December 4th, 2024: 3 rooms available

Embarking on this journey ensures a meticulously crafted English odyssey, sprinkled with handpicked outings and memories to treasure. Don’t let this unique opportunity slip away – REACH OUT now to reserve your incredible Shared Cottage Experience!

Tell Us Your Dreams For An English Cottage Vacation!

We’d love a quick peek (just 2 minutes!) into your ideal vacation wishes. Your thoughts help shape our offerings for an even more magical stay.

Dive in, dream big, and let’s craft your perfect English Cottage Vacation together – CLICK HERE!

Tower Bridge

Featured Recipe: Laura’s Perfect Pumpkin Soup

Ingredients

  • 1 large brown onion, chopped
  • 2 large celery sticks chopped
  • 2 carrots
  • 2 large parsnips
  • 1 pumpkin, any type chopped – no skin
  • 1 apple (any kind), chopped
  • 1.5 L vegetable or chicken stock
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • Olive oil
  • 1 tsp of nutmeg, grated
  • 1 tsp ground ginger / or freshly grated
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  • Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a wide-based deep saucepan and cook onion and celery for a few minutes until translucent
  • Add more olive oil, then stir in the parsnip, carrot, apple, pumpkin, ginger and nutmeg
  • Add the stock and coconut milk and bring to a boil, turn down heat down to a simmer, cover the pot and cook for about 20 minutes until the vegetables have softened. Turn off the heat
  • Leave the soup to cool a little, then blend, the better the blender the smoother the soup
  • Season to taste, garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds cream swirls and serve with your favourite bread.
Laura's pumpkin soup

Cottage Chronicles: Past Guests Paint the Picture!

We cherish every tale and testimonial from our guests. Each review is a glimpse into the special moments we help create at English Cottage Vacation.

Dive into first-hand accounts from previous visitors:

We value your trust! Our easy booking, flexible policies, and our registered company, Appanage Vacations Ltd, on the ‘Companies House’ site ensure you’re in good hands.

Join our beloved guest family. We can’t wait for you to share your own 5-star English Cottage Vacation story amidst Dorset’s charm!

ECV guest review1

Frequently Asked Questions: This Month’s FAQ

Q: How much cash should I bring?

A: The short answer is: You shouldn’t need any! Our inclusive rate covers all of your needs. At any rate, cards are widely accepted here. Obviously if you’d prefer to use cash for smaller purchases, guests typically don’t spend more than £30 on, say, souvenirs. In essence, while a little cash might be handy, it’s by no means a necessity!

To view our other Frequently Asked Questions, CLICK HERE!

fridge magnets

Our Final Thought…

“We do not remember days, we remember moments.” – Cesare Pavese

Time has a way of blurring days into one another, but the moments – those stay crystal clear. At Well Cottage, we don’t just offer an escape but a vibrant tapestry of experiences, each thread holding a unique story.

In this world of constant change, it’s these timeless moments, rich with positive emotion and genuine connection, that truly matter. When you’re with us, you’re family, and every shared story is a testament to the bonds we form.

Whether it’s a serene morning, an adventurous day out, or a festive evening, let’s make each moment count and weave an unforgettable masterpiece together.

Much love as always,

Nathan & Laura

ECV garden games