LUXURY lodge owners and visitors can enjoy a slice of comfort and leisure at picturesque holiday resorts following multi-million pound investment in the South West.
Darwin Escapes’ five-star parks at Cheddar Woods Resort and Spa, Somerset, and Hawkchurch Resort and Spa in Axminster, Devon, have attracted thousands of people to the region over the last decade.
Employing up to 100 staff across the two sites, the company has pumped hundreds of thousands of pounds into the local economy and both are thriving as destinations popular with residents and tourists, according to Senior Sales Consultant Stacey Dabinett.
At Cheddar Woods in particular, which was sensitively built on the grounds of a much-loved former campsite and BMX track in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), there has been a major transformation since day one.
“Darwin Escapes enhanced the location with an emphasis on greenery and landscaping, so we can welcome many holiday-home owners every year without imposing on the natural surroundings,” said Stacey.
“There has been significant investment on-site, but our number one USP has to be this incredible setting, which is why so many families have bought lodges here, notably for the views across the Somerset Levels to Glastonbury Tor.
“We are surrounded by nature and one of our most beloved features is a series of woodland walks which take in the amazing wildlife right on our doorstep, from deer and birds of prey to rare plants and more.”
A range of holiday homes are spread across the park, complemented by facilities including a heated indoor swimming pool with mini jet ski, ‘water walkerz’ and sea scooter sessions, which are available at a discounted rate for owners.
There is also the bar and bistro, the Eden Spa, sauna and steam room and activities via the popular GoActive programme, including climbing, bowling and archery, also enjoyed by the local community.
Meanwhile, at Hawkchurch on the south coast – which has a population of less than 600 people – the scenes are equally idyllic.
At the core of the local community, Darwin Escapes has redeveloped its footprint to include 120 lodges – 40 for ownership – and high-quality features, notably the exclusive Ezina Spa, with its hydrotherapy suite and pool complete with water cannons, waterfall, loungers and soothing treatments.
“The Spa has been a major transformation in the last 12 months and proven to be a hit with owners, who are here for peace and tranquillity, to get away from it all,” said Stacey.
“Both parks are surrounded by beautiful countryside, and I think reflect the ethos of Darwin Escapes, embracing and enhancing the surroundings, providing employment, supporting regional economies while creating environments which appeal to different demographics.
“Whether you’re a family with young children or a couple looking for a perfect home from home, there is something for everyone, especially here in the South West, and both Cheddar Woods and Hawkchurch are testament to that.”
