Chewton Glen www.chewtonglen.com
Who knew? Who knew there was such a place as the
New Forest in the southwest of England. Where William the Conquerer in 1079, set
aside these 200 sq. miles as his personal hunting grounds.
It is still there. And also there, and well
provided for, are over 3000 wild ponies, small villages with
wonderful histories, and to offer you a home away from home, is Chewton Glen.
Set in the middle of nowhere, but in fact just 35
minutes from the cruise ship dock at Southampton, and walking distance from the
coast, is this remarkable, rambling brick country house on 136 acres. A maze of
delightful and unique rooms and suites (only 58) are bookended by serene sitting rooms,
beautiful pools, all manner of sports facilities, grand spa and superb dining.
Take a croquet lesson from a master of croquet! Or take a cooking class,
explore their organic gardens and learn about the new and impressive wine areas
of England
As an unexpected addition, the owners have
recently constructed ¼ mile away,in a quiet glade, uber modern safari like
villas on stilts called the tree houses with multiple bedrooms, private decks, top of the line
kitchens, hot tubs and complete privacy. Popular among the celebrity circuit, they
offer a most un –English type experience, but with all the amenities that this
most English country house offers.
What is there to do other than tennis, croquet, spa and swimming? There are wonderful villages to explore such as Beaulieu, where you must tour the estate of the Montagues with it's superb guide, Maureen Broughton. Hiking the trails, and horse riding nearby, will also fill your days.
Great for families or for an adult
getaway, or for a country house experience prior to or following the ship
docking on the southern coast. The staff from sommelier to the very personable GM, Mr. Andrew
Stembridge, will ensure you have a perfect stay!
A cozy spot to read the morning paper.
Spectacular baths at the exotic tree houses.
