Could this be the Ultimate Escape to the New Forest

About a 30 minute drive from Southampton and, in fact, for us about the same from Lymington, this beautiful hotel nestles in the heart of the New Forest.

For me, this is a place I visit quite often for coffee with friends, but today was a special treat.  We were here for lunch.

Even more of a treat in store for Malcolm has he has never been here.

A drive through the New Forest is always a pleasure but when you live somewhere you rarely do any sightseeing, which is a pity really.

The drive, of course, can be slow sometimes ....

so if you have a deadline give yourself time to drive slowly!

We did, of course, set off early and arrived with time to start the lunch with a welcoming glass of fizz!

and there was more .....

This cute little pan of delicious scrummy nibbles were delightful.

Please forgive me.  I have forgotten what they were called, just trust me when I say they were a gastronomic delight.

We were looked after incredibly well and were shown to a very stylish restaurant, with views of the gardens.

We opted for the Seasonal Set Lunch menu.  There was the option of two or three courses and very reasonably priced.

A quick peek down to the bottom where the deserts caught my eye so the three courses would probably be the order of the day!

I always think it's rather rude to get the professional camera out in a restaurant (unless of course you're working on a commercial shoot) so I tend not to do it.  Please take our word for it .... the food was delicious.

Of course, if you don't believe us, you can always go and try for yourself.

After lunch Paulo very kindly took us through to the lounge for coffee, after which we thought we ought to try and walk a little before getting back in the car.

A wander is a must.  These gardens are full of surprises.

And the view of the building is stunning from many angles.

 It is truly beautiful, so I'll let you wander with us for a while .....

 I sat on this bench in a secluded area of the garden and watched the butterflies and bees.

But if you want to be a little more energetic, there's a forest ramble.  Not for us on this occasion..... I do wonder where it goes though?

You could always extend your lunch to an overnight stay?

  

There are many options here.  All seem to be quiet, private, and unique.

 No Malcolm, not today ...... maybe another time though :)

 Lodges, cottages, forest suites, hideaways ........

with a little more wandering and we came upon the Lake Cabin.  

Looks like the sort of place you could peacefully curl up with a book or stay a little longer and even write a book!

If it's peace, tranquillity and luxury you are after, then this is your ultimate escape to the New Forest ......it is, of course,

 Lime Wood Hotel