The Mole Resort is an idyllic and restorative getaway - and it’s Devon’s best-kept secret

When it comes to UK staycations, those looking for a laid back getaway are hard pressed to find somewhere that really does have it all. Of course, there are a number of excellent spa breaks, rural retreats and active adventures to choose from - but what if you want a little bit of everything? 

A luxury lodge with a private hot tub and unbeatable views of endless rolling hills. A hot stone massage or rejuvenating facial after a day of axe throwing, crafts and hiking. Fine dining at an award-winning restaurant one night, and a locally sourced food hamper cooked from the comfort of your kitchen the next. 

The ultimate break for go-getters and jacuzzi-dwellers alike, The Mole Resort in North Devon is a salve for the soul and a balm for both body and mind. 

Why Go

Tucked away in the peaceful Devonshire hills, the Mole Resort is set on 125 acres of spectacular countryside. Just over two hours from London Paddington by train, you can seamlessly swap the city smog for crisp country air to marvel at and enjoy this slice of rural paradise.    

Formerly known as Highbullen Hotel, a recent refurbishment has overhauled the resort to offer guests a truly memorable experience on the south west coast. Those who enjoy a roster of outdoor activities will feel very at home here, while anyone seeking solace in idyllic surroundings will be equally enamoured. 

The Mole Resort is also proud of its approach to sustainable tourism; you’ll find B Corp certified cleaning products in the lodges, non-plastic packaged toiletries and energy-efficient lighting and heating systems. There’s even an energy positive lodge available, and waste reduction schemes are employed to offer an eco-conscious escape. 

The Vibe

Tranquillity is the first word that comes to mind (whether you find that in nature or on the comfort of a massage table) and it’s a charming hub of holidaymakers - couples unwinding on a romantic break, families cycling together on the winding paths and friends laughing over cocktails in the Manor House bar.

For the activity-lovers, there are over 40 to choose from. You can learn how to start a fire in a Survival Skills workshop in the morning and practise your aim in an archery class by the afternoon. There are trails for keen hikers, tennis courts to work up a sweat and a nine-hole golf course to perfect your swing.  

A bevy of group exercise classes are also on offer, from Pilates and yoga to AquaFit and boxercise, and the heated indoor pool is ideal for steady laps. 

Unwinding also comes easy here. Relax in the bubbling jacuzzi overlooking the undulating hills before indulging in the sauna and steam rooms, or book an ELEMIS facial and luxury pedicure at the spa for a well-deserved pamper. You’ll wish you booked an extra night.

The Lodges

Guests who prefer individual rooms can stay in the on-site Manor House, but it’s the luxury lodges that really give this resort an edge. The eco-conscious dwellings are dog friendly, enveloped by lush green landscape and can sleep between 4 and 8 people. Plus, each one includes a private hot tub on the deck - a dreamy spot for some late-night star gazing with a glass of bubbly. Glorious. 

Book the Valley View 4 bedroom self-catering lodge for an unrivalled getaway with family or friends. At an impressive 140 square metres it’s chic and contemporary, combining cosy home comfort with a refined touch - think a farmhouse-feel sage green kitchen with gold accents, a rustic dining table with gorgeous Brooklyn dining chairs and bi-folding doors overlooking the captivating countryside. Each lodge is lined with a private balcony which includes outdoor seating, perfect for sun-soaked dining on balmy evenings or warming morning coffees come winter. 

Three of the bedrooms boast super king beds and direct balcony access - with two also including full en-suites - while the fourth bedroom is presented as a twin. All guests can enjoy a fluffy robe and slippers to really aid the R&R, and dousing yourself in the complimentary L’Occitane products will help with that, too.

The Food and Drink

With a focus on locally sourced ingredients, you can feast on mouth-watering dishes from the on-site restaurants - or from the comfort of your kitchen. 

During the day, The Bistro is your go-to for lunch and light bites, but when the night draws in head to the award-winning Cellars Bar and Restaurant. Nestled in the original cellars of the historic Manor House, it’s a sophisticated spot for diners. Start with the charred fillet of Cornish mackerel before sinking your teeth into the slow-roasted Moroccan cured pork belly - it’s a delicious plate, especially when paired with a glass of Picpoul. The hearty shepherd’s pie is also a comforting winner, while dishes from the grill include a succulent Exmoor sirloin steak. Save space for the indulgent chocolate brownie to satisfy your sweet tooth. 

For the home cooks, The Mole Resort is on hand with hampers to provide you with top-quality produce from the region. The breakfast pack includes dry-aged back bacon and handmade pork sausages, free-range eggs and chestnut mushrooms for the ultimate fry up. 

But the dinner hampers are the main event. There’s are roast and BBQ options, but it’s the steak pack that seriously impresses. Unleash your inner chef with the Dartmoor 8oz ribeye steaks, banana shallots, mushrooms, jacket potatoes and cherry vine tomatoes. Heavenly. 

Additional Information

Free parking is available for all guests and those staying in the lodges have their own spaces. Wi-Fi is also free across the resort. The nearest train station for those arriving from London is Tiverton Parkway, while Eggesford and Umberleigh are just 10 minutes from the resort.

How To Book

For more information about The Mole Resort or to book your stay, visit their website at www.themoleresort.co.uk. 

You can also email reception@themoleresort.co.uk or call +44 (0)1769 540561.