The Whitebrook Hotel

Wales

Wales’ lush Wye Valley is the ideal spot for a secluded gourmet getaway. The last leg of the drive along increasingly narrow, leafy lanes hints at the pastoral vibe that will characterise your entire weekend.

Start with an easy stroll through the woodland as per the helpful directions provided in your room, where the pretty landscape is varied and the aroma of wild herbs permeates the air. Later, you can expect to see them on your plate, as chef and owner Chris Harrod is a keen forager. Pennywort, bitter cress, wild onion, hogweed and lesser celandine all feature regularly on his Michelin-starred menu.

The seven-course tasting option is the best way to experience everything that the local area has to offer as well as Harrod’s considerable skill in the kitchen. A dish of flaked white crab with crispy shards of roast chicken skin and horseradish was an unusual but delicious combination, while tart blackcurrants were perfectly balanced with chamomile and sage for dessert. Expect a convivial atmosphere and an interesting selection of wines featuring local bins and wines from independent growers and biodynamic producers.

All eight bedrooms have enormous bathrooms and soothing decor, rounded off nicely with a breakfast of thinly sliced smoked salmon over plump poached eggs and another ramble in the valley. Doubles with breakfast and dinner from £223.