staying in an off-grid cabin

During a usual working week, there’s hardly an hour that goes by where I’m not looking at some sort of screen. Whether that’s my phone, work laptop or a TV - my eyes are usually always glued. So when the team at Unplugged reached out to ask whether I’d like to try a digital detox for a few nights, I was very quick to say YES!

So, the idea is that you spend 3 nights in an off-grid cabin surrounded by nature and “lock your phone” away for 3 nights. Full disclaimer — I didn’t fully unplug from my device but my screen time was at an all-time low which I’m taking as a win.

*disclaimer - this stay was complimentary but all opinions are my own!

You’re only told the location of the cabin close to your check-in date. But for anyone slightly hesitant about their safety staying in a place like this, you can choose to stay at Basil or Gruff that are only 70m apart and will provide you with some comfort that other guests are nearby!

value for money

We stayed in Olive which I understand is the most sought after. And with the view from the cabin, I can understand why! It was truly gorgeous and was equally as charming when it was raining on the day we checked out.

However, in line with the company’s ethos to truly have a digital detox, you can only book 3-night stays so you’re restricted to paying a fixed amount of (at least) £390 for your stay. Whilst the per night price isn’t far from what you’d expect for an experience like this, I think it’s a shame you can’t choose to stay for one or two nights.

facilities

The cabins have everything you'd need for a 3-night stay including a wood burner, gas hob, fridge/freezer, hot shower, cooking equipment, cutlery etc. And of course a beautiful bed complete with the cosiest Piglet bedding, that looks out at the gorgeous surroundings. Whilst all the facilities were as you’d expect (or better) for a remote location, I would say the only one I struggled to get behind was the eco-grid toilet (sorry, not sorry).

The cabins also come with board games, a radio, books and even an Instax camera with film - which I thought was a unique perk!

location

As you may already know, I’m always on the lookout for places that are easily accessible by public transport. All the cabins are an hour (ish) from London and a short taxi ride. However, we were unlucky with our taxi and ended up having to wait at the train station for an hour. So a BIG tip - book your taxi as far in advance as possible (e.g. at least a week before)! Or just drive if you’re looking to explore the nearby area.

As the idea is for the cabin to be relatively remote, there’s not too much to do nearby other than to wind down and enjoy the surrounding nature. There are a couple of pubs within driving distance or 30-60 min walks but we chose to stay relatively close to the cabin.

Overall, I think this kind of stay is a wonderful way to encourage you to take time away from your day-to-day and switch off from your screens. It was the first time in a looong time (probably since the Harry Potter books were released?!) that I got through nearly a whole book in one sitting!

Thanks for reading,

T.

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