Our top 10 digital detox holidays for going off-grid

Accommodation, Rural

Posted by Ruth on 28th November 2022

Digital detox

If you’ve found yourself wrung out by the stresses and strains of modern life, have you considered a digital detox?

Digital detoxes are perfect if you’re looking to enjoy a tranquil and restful holiday, as they allow you to completely switch off and unwind without any technological distractions – no emails, no social media, and no Netflix!

Whether you’re looking to unplug for a digital detox weekend or are looking to create some distance between you and the modern world for good, we have hand-picked some of our best remote properties to inspire your next break.

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Rambler's Retreat

Rambler’s Retreat, Dartmoor

Sleeps 2 guests + 1 dog

Surrounded by the stunning scenery of Dartmoor National Park, Rambler’s Retreat is a hand-crafted shepherd’s hut that’s perfect for switching off and immersing yourself in nature. With no TV and no Wi-Fi, you can tune into the natural world that surrounds you, listening for the sounds of sheep in the nearby field or birds twittering overhead.

The hut doesn’t skimp on the mod-cons totally, with a fully functioning bathroom, kitchen and a toasty wood burner to warm the toes after long Dartmoor walks. When civilisation calls, there’s a pub, and a community shop and tearoom within 1 mile.  

Offline activities include:

  • Toasting marshmallows on the firepit under the stars
  • Paddling in the River Dart, a short walk away
  • Roaming Holme Moor with your hound

Book Ramblers Retreat


Gaggys Hut

Gaggys Hut, Snettisham

Sleeps 8 guests + 2 dogs

If you really dream of getting away from it all and running away to the seaside, Gaggys Hut is a back-to-basics bungalow that could fulfil your every wish. Not only does it have no Wi-Fi or TV, but this off-grid holiday home is powered by solar energy, has a gas heater and hob, basic lighting and a USB charger point – with no other plugs.

What it does have in abundance, however, is access to nature – set right on the seafront in Snettisham, you have mile upon mile of coastal pathways on your doorstep as well as being next door to an RSPB nature reserve. On the edge of the village, the cottage is close to a pub and a fish and chip shop providing the best of both worlds for your digital detox.

Offline activities include:

  • Waking up with an early morning dip in the sea
  • Spotting seabirds at RSPB Snettisham
  • Soaking up the sunset over the water from the sunroom

Book Gaggys Hut


The Wesleyan Chapel

The Wesleyan Chapel, Danby

Sleeps 2 guests + 2 dogs

For a digital detox while still enjoying the finer things, head to the North York Moors for a stay in The Wesleyan Chapel. This beautifully converted 1850s chapel is still as peaceful as it was at its construction, with no Wi-Fi or TV, but what has changed is the sumptuous décor which has been brought right up to date to create a beautiful bolthole that’s just right for a romantic retreat.

Surrounded by rolling countryside, this charming cabin is also close to the spectacular North Yorkshire coastline, peppered with ever-popular gems such as Whitby, Robin Hood’s Bay and Runswick Bay.

Offline activities include:

  • Popping on the complimentary slippers and enjoying a glass of fizz in front of the wood burner
  • Spotting deer in the countryside behind the chapel
  • Walking the spectacular North York Moors National Park

Book The Wesleyan Chapel


Blackthorn Cottage

Blackthorn Cottage, Crickhowell

Sleeps 4 guests + 2 dogs

If you’re seeking creative inspiration from your digital detox, look no further than Blackthorn Cottage – an artist’s retreat tucked away in the Brecon Beacons. Your inner artist cannot fail to be inspired by the stunning views over the Black Mountains, and your creative institution will be sharpened by getting back to basics at this retreat – with no Wi-Fi, this eco-friendly retreat is perfect for off-grid holidays where you can tune out the world and tune into what really matters.

Despite enjoying a rural hillside position, this cottage is surprisingly close to civilisation, with both Crickhowell and Abergavenny being 10 minutes’ drive. If you want to connect further with nature, take a walk up Sugar Loaf Mountain, cycle one of the many trails nearby or go canoeing on the River Wye.

Offline activities include:

  • Relaxing in the wood-fired sauna or the roll-top tub
  • Gazing at the unrivalled views across the Brecon Beacons
  • Strolling through seasonal bluebell woods and wildflower meadows

Book Blackthorn Cottage


Ty Coot

Ty Coot, Abergavenny

Sleeps 2 guests

Another Welsh digital detox retreat is Ty Coot, a rustic cabin on the edge of a wildlife-rich lake. Tuck into the goodies in the welcome hamper as you soak up the peace and quiet, listening out for the sounds of birds all around you. With no Wi-Fi and very limited phone signal, this cabin offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern-day life.

If you fancy exploring further, Sugar Loaf Mountain is close by for some epic hikes, while Abergavenny, Crickhowell and Raglan are all within easy driving distance if you want to immerse yourself in some Welsh culture.

Offline activities include:

  • Sitting on the deck and watching the wildfowl in the lake
  • Cosying up with a good book in front of the wood burner
  • Exploring the abundant walks on your doorstep

Book Ty Coot


View of the Valley montage of interior and exterior

View of the Valley Hut, Monmouth

Sleeps 2 guests + 2 dogs

Perfect for an off-grid couples’ getaway, View of the Valley overlooks the dramatic Usk Valley. It’s nestled in ancient woodland which comes alive with colourful bluebells each spring. With a wood-fired hot tub, hammock and fire pit, this shepherd’s hut allows you to while away the days in tranquil relaxation.

There’s no need to leave the site if you don’t want to, but there is plenty to explore in the local area, with the town of Monmouth a short drive away. Tintern Abbey and the Forest of Dean also offer lots of potential for a day trip before heading back to your romantic retreat.

Offline activities include:

  • Relaxing in the wood-fired hot tub or hammock
  • Walking in the wonderful surrounding woodland and countryside
  • Enjoying a romantic al fresco meal in stunning surroundings

Book View of the Valley Hut


The Escape

The Escape, Portinscale

Sleeps 2 guests + 2 dogs

Combining chic, minimalist style with traditional Lake District charm, The Escape offers just that – the chance to get away from it all for a while. It’s the perfect base for getting out and about in the national park, with both Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite within easy striking distance, and the many delights of Keswick around a 15-minute walk away.

When your legs are tired and your heart is full, return to this cosy cottage to unwind. There’s no TV and Wi-Fi, and very limited mobile signal, so you can spend your evenings relaxing amidst the tranquil décor, reading a book, playing board games and sharing stories late into the night.

Offline activities include:

  • Roaming the trails near Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite
  • Enjoying lazy lie-ins in the bright and relaxing bedroom
  • Unwinding in the wingback chairs with a good book

Book The Escape


Montage of The Pmebrokehire Retreat, interior and exterior

The Pembrokeshire Retreat, Narberth

Sleeps 2 guests

With no TV, internet or mobile phone signal, this is truly a place to unwind and escape the pressures of every day and enjoy a digital detox. The Pembrokeshire Retreat is set in private woodland near an idyllic stream. Alongside the beautifully presented interior including a wood burner and sofa bed, there is a decked area, an enclosed hot tub, and seating area with fire pit.

This eco-friendly retreat has a composting toilet and is powered by solar electricity, adding extra meaning to the phrase ‘off-grid’. Modern conveniences and supplies are close at hand, with the market town of Narberth just 7 miles away.

Offline activities include:

  • Heading to Llys-y-Fran Lake for fun on the water and cycling and walking opportunities
  • Gazing out at the gorgeous surroundings from the comfort of the sofa bed
  • Toasting marshmallows over the fire pit

Book The Pembrokeshire Retreat


External and internal views of Dreamcatcher Wagon

Dreamcatcher Wagon, Hay-on-Wye

Sleeps 2 guests + 2 dogs

This private off-grid camp includes a quirky arched-roof wagon set on the idyllic 17-acre farm with horses, donkeys and chickens. Outside you will find a gas-powered hot shower, modern eco compost loo and the camp fire already set up with all the utensils you need to cook on the open flame. Relax around the table and chairs, or on the veranda on the wagon.

With stunning scenery and tranquillity in spades, this is a unique and special place for a couple to retreat and unwind. Wherever you choose to sit at the camp you will be able to embrace the most spectacular mountain and countryside views.

Offline activities include:

  • Relaxing outside the wagon and savouring the spectacular views
  • A private donkey woodland trek and picnic available (arrange with the owners)
  • Wild swimming in the nearby water hole

Book Dreamcatcher Wagon


Bothan Buie

Bothan Buie, Strath

Sleeps 4 guests + 2 dogs

For those who want a digital detox retreat that’s not too off-grid, this spectacular bothy in the remote Scottish Highlands will tick all the boxes. Yes, it does have technology such as a TV, iPod dock and a CD player, but it combines this with a remote location surrounded by stunning scenery that will stir your senses.

Overlooking Strath Bay in North West Scotland, Bothan Buie is a traditional wooden cabin with views to die for. Set off on lung-busting walks in any direction, paddle in the bay where dolphins have been spotted, and then return to your cosy cabin to soak sore muscles in the hot tub as the stars come out overhead.

Offline activities include:

  • Relaxing in the hot tub under a starlit sky
  • Looking for dolphins out at sea
  • Cosying up in front of the wood burner with a dram and listening to the radio

Book Bothan Buie


Escape on an off-grid retreat

From the top of the Shetland Isles down to the tip of Cornwall, we have a wide range of cottages in some of the most remote locations in the British Isles, perfect for getting away from it all.

Whether you want to go fully off-grid or just want a bit of peace and quiet for a while, take a look at our range of remote cottages and be inspired for your next getaway.

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Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.