Want to honeymoon where the celebs go to get away? Take a peek at this star-studded hideaway.
By: Naomie Jean Louis
Supermodel Kate Moss walked down a different aisle when she married rocker Jamie Hince near her country home in the picturesque Cotswold region of England. An area of gently sloping green hills punctuated by babbling brooks, wildflower gardens and historic stone buildings, the region in west central England is often described as typically English.Stretching over six counties, the Cotswolds house quaint towns with quirky names such as Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold and innumerable opportunities to enjoy a romantic getaway in a cozy manor-house setting.
One such beauty is Ellenborough Park, a 62-room gem located on sprawling parklike land in Gloucestershire. The quiet stone hideaway has all the trappings of a traditional country home including individually appointed rooms, seemingly endless English-style gardens, cozy sitting areas and, of course, afternoon tea. Spread across four locations on the property, accommodations all feature sumptuous bedding and scenic views of either the gardens or verdant hills. Some rooms have fireplaces, claw-foot tubs or four-poster beds.
While the guest rooms, two restaurants and overall setting harken back to the days of Jane Austen novels, the hotel's Indian-inspired spa is totally modern. Sleek interiors house a steam room, small pool and sauna, along with seven treatment rooms. Massages, facials and other relaxing goodies are on offer, but for true indulgence, book one of the couple's experiences, which consist of four hours of lavish pampering for you and your guy.
Other property activities include strolling amid the gardens, splashing in the pool and feeling like the lord and lady of the manor while kicking back in overstuffed fireside sofas in the wood-paneled Great Hall. Wander further afield for golf and polo lessons, which are offered at the nearby Longdole Polo Club. Art galleries and antique shops can also be found throughout the pretty villages of the Cotswolds (room rates start at $286 a night and include breakfast; ellenboroughpark.com)
Photographs courtesy of Ellenborough Park
