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Rediscover Serenity: Your Perfect Countryside Haven Awaits

Embracing Rural Calm: A Londoner's Retreat

For city dwellers accustomed to constant motion, periodic excursions into the countryside serve as essential respites. These journeys cleanse the spirit, quiet the mind, and infuse daily existence with a renewed sense of vigor. The relentless pace of urban living, while stimulating, often necessitates a peaceful counterbalance. Seeking out destinations that promise starry nights, breathtaking sunrises, and quintessentially British vistas offers a therapeutic escape.

Beyond the Familiar: A Discovery in Suffolk

While the well-trodden paths of the Cotswolds, Cornwall, and other classic British locales have provided their share of idyllic weekends, new attractions often emerge from unexpected discoveries. The allure of a distinctive hotel or unique lodging frequently guides the next adventure. Such was the case with Restaries Paradise Farm, an enchanting property stumbled upon via social media, which quickly revealed itself as an exceptional find. This type of farm-stay experience is gaining popularity, not just across Europe with its visions of lush gardens and vineyards, but particularly in one's own backyard.

Arrival at Restaries: A Warm Welcome and Rustic Charm

A journey of approximately three hours from London leads to Restaries in Suffolk, the creation of Gem and Thom Bon-Scherdel. Their infectious enthusiasm for their endeavor is immediately apparent upon arrival. The anticipation built over months of discovery culminates in a joyful welcome, akin to the playful spirit of the resident pygmy goats. The sprawling red, thatched-roof main house, reminiscent of a fairytale, serves as the family's residence but is also available for larger gatherings. Surrounding it are three distinctive Airbnb accommodations, including 'The Cider Store,' a two-night sanctuary, and 'The Gate House,' a romantic one-bedroom with a spiral staircase. Amidst these lodgings, a lively menagerie of alpacas, Valais Black Nose sheep, pigs, and chickens, each with its own character, adds to the farm's unique appeal.

Luxurious Living and Lively Encounters at The Cider Store

Settling into 'The Cider Store' brings immediate contentment for all. While one guest prepares pizzas in the outdoor oven, children find entertainment with the curious goats peeking in from the courtyard. The host is captivated by the exquisite interior design, a perfect fusion of rural elegance and expert curation. The aesthetic, balancing modern homeliness with traditional country elements and bold color choices, is truly a work of art. These local getaways offer more than just a change of scenery; they provide a glimpse into an alternative lifestyle, even if just for a weekend. The Cider Store exemplifies this with thoughtful luxuries like underfloor heating, a premium coffee machine, and lavish toiletries—subtle nods to the owners' urban roots.

Idyllic Mornings and Inspiring Stories

Mornings at Restaries unfold at a leisurely pace, in harmony with the awakening wildlife. A determined goat's bleat from atop its rocky perch draws guests through the barn, observing the morning rituals of coffee making and sourdough preparation. Children delight in the provided toy box, their play interrupted only by an invitation from Gem and her daughters to feed the pigs, Plucky and Prada. The warmth of the welcome is unparalleled. Conversations with fellow guests reveal shared experiences—some celebrating family milestones, others contemplating a similar rural transition, inspired by the Bon-Scherdels' bold move from city life.

Reluctant Departures and Lingering Memories

While some guests participate in farm yoga or explore nearby towns, the irresistible charm of Restaries makes departure difficult. An afternoon by the pool becomes the preferred choice. As dusk falls, Gem personally delivers bespoke cocktails to each accommodation, enhancing the sense of personalized luxury. Restaries is a place that captivates and delights, making it hard to leave but a true treasure to have discovered. The journey home is filled with plans for a swift return, especially to reconnect with the endearing pygmy goats who have captured everyone's hearts.