Log cabin holidays in Yorkshire offer the perfect balance of rustic seclusion and modern luxury: access to unbridled nature close proximity to villages and cities, room to explore majestic lakes and valleys. And with two stages of the 2014 Tour de France – including the Grand Départ – passing through Yorkshire July 4 – 5, an already bustling region just got even more exciting. For tips on where to spend your summer holidays, have a look below at some of our favourite Yorkshire log cabin getaways.
Grand Départ and Stage 1: Leeds to Harrogate
Active travellers – walkers and hikers, city explorers, sightseers – will feel right at home in the Flowery Dell Luxury Pine Lodges outside of Richmond. The cabins are outfitted with new furniture and modern appliances, assuring that you’ll never feel to cut off from the outside world. The Grand Départ is under an hour away, and you’ll have easy access to the final stretches of Stage 1. Stage 2, on the other hand, is just 5 miles away. And when you’ve had your fill of the day’s action, your cabin will be a welcome retreat. (Tel: 01748 822406 Email: info@flowerydell-lodges.com)
If you’re content with skipping the Grand Départ but still want to catch the first phase of the race, consider the Bivouac Woodland Shacks just 3 miles from Masham. The Tour will pass directly through Masham, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to cheer from the sidelines. As for the accommodations, don’t let the word “shack” fool you. These eco-friendly log cabins are bright and spacious, with open kitchens, wood burning stoves, and room for up to 7 adults. (Tel: 01765 53 50 20 / Email: hello@thebivouac.co.uk)
Stage 2: York to Sheffield
For a lodge holiday that never keeps you too far from civilization, try the log cabins at Herrington Park just 5 miles east of York. You’ll be in perfect position to catch the second phase of the race! What’s more, you’ll be just a stone’s throw from numerous attractions, including the North York Moors, the Yorkshire Dales, Castle Howard – perfect for days when you’re not soaking in your private hot tub, lounging on the veranda, or following the Tour. (Tel: 01904 607354 / Email: herringtonpark@aol.com)
If you’re travelling with the brood, consider the Scandinavian-style lodges of Flamingo Land Log Cabins in Malton to take in Stage 2 of the Tour. While not it’s not quite the Yorkshire country getaway that some of the other properties offer, the cabins in Malton are relatively near York. They’re also just a short walk from the theme park and zoo, making it the perfect accommodation for families visiting Flamingo Land. (Tel: 0871 911 8000 / Web contact here).
Off the grid:
Though this property is an hour from Leeds and York, we have to give a special nod to the Golden Oak Treehouse Cabin at Keldy, North Yorkshire. Tucked away in the wooded valley of Moors National Park, the Golden Oak Treehouse rests in a quiet grove surrounded by lush forest. While somewhat far from the Tour route, you’ll likely save on the high season rates. N.b. The treehouse is an extension room and can only be accessed by renting the larger cabin on the property; while not an ideal “for two” getaway, it’s perfect for large families or those traveling in groups. (Tel: 0845 130 8223 / Email: info@forestholidays.co.uk)
2014 Tour de France is going to bring tons of visitors to Yorkshire, so make sure to book your lodge holiday accommodations early and secure yourself a spot at this exciting event.