beyond checks into the luxurious Everything Retreat in the beautiful Ribble Valley and discovers how one woman’s vision to create the ultimate luxurious escape has now become a reality.

It took some grit, determination and creative vision, but knee-deep in mud, one Lancashire lass was adamant she would transform her newly acquired boggy land into a luxury retreat.

Fast forward three years, and despite a few raised eyebrows along the way from friends and family who questioned her wisdom, she’s done exactly that with the opening of Everything Retreat – an oasis of beauty in the heart of the stunning Ribble Valley.

The five-star hideaway in the pretty village of Mellor is the brainchild of Louise Monk who in the space of three years has turned an empty field into one of the most seductive escapes imaginable.

When the opportunity arose to buy some land and accompanying farmhouse, just down the road from her own home, Louise jumped at the chance with lofty plans to create a beautiful safe haven in the midst of this area of outstanding natural beauty, while providing a laid-back, comfortable and altogether luxurious experience for guests.

So, when the beyond invite came to check it out, we wasted no time hot-footing it over the hills to see what all the fuss was about. As you round the corner of the long sweeping driveway into the exquisitely crafted and landscaped retreat, you know you’ve arrived somewhere special.

Home to 12 perfectly formed cedarwood lodges, all strategically and mindfully placed to ensure complete privacy, this is a place that despite its infancy already blends effortlessly into the landscape.

Greeted in reception by the team, we knew we were onto a good thing when our giddy spaniel was presented with his own goody box on arrival. Not one to shy away from a pig’s ear or the limelight, prising him away from the welcome party was no mean feat. Everything Retreat is dog-friendly and adult-only which makes for a very appealing combination.

There are two types of lodges, all equally beautiful and all with their own private hot tubs. Six in the Signature Collection – calm, open-plan living spaces, using natural textures, high quality fittings and accessories, and huge full-length windows to take in the impressive vista, and six in the Unique Collection. These are all individually themed and are inspired by Louise’s trots around the globe ranging from Scandi chic to the ski slopes of the Alps; Asian zen to African nights; English heritage to the Scottish Highlands.

Each is bursting with glamour, comfort and  meticulous attention to detail that puts most five-star boutique hotel rooms in the shade.

We were very fortunate to have been assigned The Bothy, Highland-themed and totally up our alley with its dark, decadent interior, oak flooring, accents of tartan and cosy fur throws. Even the giant reed diffuser scent is specific to the theme, as is the tipple of choice, ours being a decanter of whiskey. And did I mention the log burner and underfloor heating.

Louise worked with Charlotte Bovingdon of Tannery Interiors to design and create the super-stylish décor throughout the lodges and there is a big nod to local designers and manufacturers throughout each property. From the seductive mattresses to the Cumbria-based Bath House toiletries; the locally distilled gin to the delicious breakfast hamper which is delivered to your door, this is a place that oozes class at every turn.

After enjoying a complimentary signature gin (a collaboration with Lancashire-based Wild Fox Distillery) and full-on nosey round our home for the night, we made our way to the newly opened wine bar, pristine, candle-lit and cosy, for a drink and mingle with our fellow visitors. All sharing glowing reports of our lodges and surroundings, but keen to get back to the hot tubs and log burners, and the promise of a glorious night’s sleep.

I can vouch for the mattress comfort, we slept like logs and were in no rush to leave the next day. Neither was the pup. In fact, we’ve never loaded up the car so reluctantly. But we will be back. It’s our duty because there’s more development in the pipeline. It seems Louise doesn’t do things by halves and so there’s a kitchen area to come, to cater for small functions and breakfasts; treatment rooms, offering the ultimate in relaxation, and renovations to the original farmhouse are underway to accommodate larger groups.

Perhaps most impressive of all though is the Everything team who seem to whole-heartedly share Louise’s vision and are conscientious in their efforts to create the best possible experience for guests. Always happy to help, nothing is too much trouble and they are always smiling!

The Ribble Valley certainly has much to shout about and the arrival of Everything Retreat is yet another string to its mighty fine bow. Apart from being a nationally acclaimed foodie paradise with no shortage of impressive eateries in the area, there’s the Tolkein Trail, Gisburn Forest and Pendle Hill all right on your doorstep.

And after a day walking or cycling across the spectacular local countryside, what better place to head to switch off than this little oasis of tranquillity in the midst of it all.

Sprinkled with a bit of magic, it’s beautiful, restorative and luxurious and we couldn’t recommend it highly enough. They really do have everything covered.

Prices start from £235 per night.
T: 01254 965095
E: hello@everything-retreat.com
W: everything-retreat.com

Everything Retreat, Pendle View Lodges,
Primrose Lane, Mellor, BB2 7EQ