The Lakes by Yoo
The low-down
Once a quarry, now a peaceful private estate with extraordinary lakeside villas for renting or buying (if you’re an A-lister or extremely wealthy). Be amazed by designer interiors, lakeside activities and a top-to-toe concierge service. Ideal for two or more, if you don’t want to leave the kids at home.
What makes it special?
The unspoilt landscape on your doorstep, admirable from your private hot tub. With 850 acres of private land, The Lakes by Yoo is a playground for nature lovers with gallons of fresh air. It’s glamorous too. With its calm, glistening lakes and landscaped waterfront lined with celebrity-owned eco-lodges. This exclusive site is impeccably peaceful and discreet – don’t expect to see any crowds here – simply unwind at your own pace.
Accommodation varies in size and style but all feature the impeccable design skills of big household names like Kate Moss, Phillipe Stark and Jade Jagger. They combine modern interiors with a magnificently constructed exterior, designed to complement the stunning surroundings. We stayed at the Kate Moss-designed Barnhouse, which sleeps 10-12 people. Secluded in the forest, its double-story glass wall floods the place with light, there’s an art-deco master suite plus several equally as appealing bedrooms. The open plan kitchen and dining area is the focal point, with a futuristic kitchen and long dining table set to impress.
Ideas for ‘us’ time
Kayaking, cycling, climbing, sailing, hiking, water skiing…
there’s so much to keep you busy (and the kids too, if you’ve brought them). If you like to fish, Huntsman Lake is teeming with trout, pike, carp and other types – just ask the concierge to arrange your activities. For adventurous types, there’s a zip line and if you like things more low-key, there’s The Orchard Spa, where you can arrange a Bamford treatment or join a yoga class.
The dinner for two
You can enjoy almost any cuisine you like without leaving the comfort of your lodge. Not that you’ll want to, with all that extravagance around. Michelin-trained chefs are on hand for groups of 8 or more. They can even bring a barista along and staff to clean up afterwards.
For smaller families and couples, COOK meals offer great convenience. They can be pre-ordered before you arrive and with little notice too. All meals are lovingly prepared and can be popped straight into the oven from the freezer. Plus, they taste divine and use premium ingredients, which we can vouch for, one colossal chicken pie and a pavlova later.
Anything else?
The concierge has pretty much anything covered, catering for both Yoo lodge owners and those visiting for a holiday. From arranging a nanny to unpacking your shopping. Celebrating a special occasion? Yes, that’s covered too with private chefs, mixologists and waiting staff for hire. The best part? All the services are affordable and cab ve arranged with the upmost discretion.
The Lakes by Yoo, nr Lechdale, Gloucestershire GL7 3DT
W: www.thelakesbyyoo.com
T: 01367 254260
E: lettings@thelakesbyyoo.com
Read our full review of The Lakes by Yoo