The Lake
Cornwall, United Kingdom – Cabin for 2 from £115 per night
The container at The Lake effortlessly frames the tranquil, flooded quarry, quietly letting the shifting light on the water and the countryside’s varied seasonal hues take centre stage. Simple comfort, peace and privacy reign, with owners Rupert and Fran keen to leave you to it, hence the strict daylight hours arrival time so they can show you round and let you enjoy the peace. They leave after unlocking and unveiling the shipping container and, apart from the odd dog walker or the occasional sound of the army training on the moors, it’s like the lake, the countryside, the whole world, are yours and yours alone. Huge vistas of moorland lead out from your door, inviting you on expeditions over miles of walking trails to nearby tors, day trips to either Cornish coast or outings to local pubs in sleepy villages.
When you return, if you ever leave, the half mile of rough track leading up to The Lake brings home how completely off-grid you are. Solar panels power the lighting and charge points, superb insulation helps the woodburner warm the space in any weather, and water for cleaning is pumped directly from the lake. The only impact you’ll have on the countryside during your stay is when you rent the rowing boat and drift around the lake, use the rod provided for fishing off the pier or shock the wild ponies as you stride back in the nude from the piping hot shower behind the main space after a wild swim. Even the fridge is natural, being nothing more than a cage hanging from the dock, perfectly positioned for chilling beer during afternoon naps. As night falls, the landscape fades but the stars take over, with Bodmin’s newly awarded Dark Sky status affirmed by a heavenly display.
