The scent of freshly cut grass mingled with the crisp Devon air as Laura Bartlett stepped off the train at Exeter St David’s. Her anticipation crackled like the midday sun, promising an adventure unlike any other. This wasn’t your average city break; this was a meticulously curated journey through the heart of the Pob Hotels collection, and this time, it coincided perfectly with the buzz of the upcoming summer Olympics!

Tailoring Luxury to My Inner Athlete

PoB Hotels isn’t just about luxurious stays; it’s about experiences. Their new “Get Set, and Go” campaign, launched in honour of the 2024 summer games, personalises your escape around Britain’s favourite sports. Think indulging your inner Wimbledon champion or conquering the South Downs on a cycling adventure – all while enjoying the comfort and service PoB Hotels are renowned for.

Having already experienced the tranquil bliss of Sopwell House‘s spa, the riverside delights of Talbooth House and the timeless elegance of The Athenaeum in London, I knew a treat awaited with my next PoB Hotels adventure. 

Over the next few days, I traded bustling streets for rolling hills, dramatic coastline  and the unparalleled hospitality Pob Hotels were renowned for. Buckle up, because my adventure was about to begin, seamlessly blending luxurious relaxation perfectly complemented with the active spirit of the “Get Set, and Go” campaign.

Bovey Castle

My journey began with a train journey from Leeds to Exeter St David’s. Now, I’m no stranger to trains, but let me tell you, the anticipation of a luxurious Devon escape made even the clatter of the tracks sound positively thrilling. Stepping off the train, I was met by my knight in shining armour – well, a chauffeur in a very swanky car. He whisked me away to the majestic Bovey Castle, a place that oozed more history and grandeur than a Downton Abbey boxset marathon. Here, amidst the rolling hills, I knew my adventure wouldn’t just be about relaxation, but about discovering new active experiences too.

Check-in was a breeze, and after a spot of lunch that left my taste buds singing, it was time to explore. Dartmoor National Park called, and with a trusty electric bicycle courtesy of Pob Hotels’ partnership with the “Get Set, and Go” initiative beneath me, I was off to conquer its vast expanse. Talk about fresh air! The wind whipped through my hair as I cruised past rolling hills and picture-perfect scenery. Even those steeper inclines were a breeze with my trusty e-bike, adding a whole new level of “conquering” to the experience. By the time I returned to the castle, I was pleasantly buzzed from the adventure (and maybe a touch of smugness for tackling those hills with such ease).

The evening was all about unwinding with drinks and dinner. Let’s just say the company was delightful, the food even more so and the conversation flowed like the finest Devon cream. Now, some might consider a nightcap the perfect ending, but for this sober explorer, a clear head meant one glorious thing: a sunrise rendezvous with Mother Nature. Picture this: me, the crisp Devon air whispering secrets in my ear, the first rays of sunshine painting the landscape in a golden glow and a chorus of birds serenading the dawn. Basically, a real-life Disney movie, minus the overly-animated animals (although, with that much charm around, I wouldn’t be surprised if a few particularly enthusiastic robins belted out a show-stopping solo).

The Nare

The next day, a leisurely breakfast fuelled me up for another adventure. This time, my destination was The Nare, a quintessential English country house perched right on the Cornish coast. Think dramatic cliffs, crashing waves and enough charm to make a mermaid jealous.

Now, I’m no stranger to a good game of tennis, and with the sea breeze whispering sweet nothings in my ear, I was ready to unleash my inner Wimbledon champion. (Spoiler alert: Mother Nature had other plans. Turns out, the ocean breeze had morphed into a full-on wind symphony and battling a rogue tennis ball was a losing proposition. But hey, you win some, you lose some, and you definitely reschedule your tennis match for a less, shall we say, “enthusiastic” day!)

Lunch was a delightful affair at The Nare’s restaurant, where the freshest local produce met breathtaking ocean views. Talk about a feast for the senses! Besides, a delicious meal is the perfect consolation prize for a postponed tennis match, wouldn’t you agree?

The Headland

The afternoon saw me whisked away to The Headland, a grand hotel overlooking the picturesque town of Newquay.  The rest of the day was mine to explore and with a charming town centre calling my name, I couldn’t resist a spot of wandering.  By evening, I was back at The Headland, ready for another round of wining and dining. The ambiance was warm, the service impeccable and let’s just say I left feeling thoroughly spoiled.

But the real surprise came at dinner. When the staff learned about my embrace of a sober lifestyle, they didn’t miss a beat. The incredibly talented chef went rogue (in the best way possible!), crafting a bespoke menu just for me, a symphony of flavours that had my taste buds doing a happy dance. The enthusiasm was contagious – one of the staff, equally passionate about the world of no and low-alcohol beverages, took me on a delightful tour of their ever-expanding collection. We even dabbled in some mixology magic, conjuring up a stunning alcohol-free cocktail so delicious they had to name it after me! Yes, folks, “The Laura” became a temporary fixture on The Headland’s menu – a testament to the hotel’s dedication to exceptional experiences, no matter your beverage preference.

The last day was bittersweet. A leisurely breakfast fuelled by nostalgia (and maybe a touch of sadness that the trip was ending) was followed by packing and goodbyes. With a train ticket from Bodmin Parkway to York clutched in my hand, it was time to depart. But as the train journey unfolded, a wave of contentment washed over me.

This whirlwind tour of PoB Hotels had been nothing short of magical. From the grandeur of Bovey Castle to the seaside charm of The Nare and the dramatic setting of The Headland, each location had its own unique personality. They say variety is the spice of life, and PoB Hotels has that flavour profile down to a decadent art. Believe me, these are just a taste of the incredible experiences waiting to be discovered in their entire collection.

Get set and go on your own adventure

PoB Hotels’ “Get Set, and Go” campaign is the perfect excuse to combine your love of travel with a touch of sporty adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a weekend warrior, there’s a PoB Break curated especially for you.

Imagine yourself cycling the South Downs between Bailiffscourt and Ockenden Manor, or following in the wake of Olympic rowers on the River Thames with The Relais Henley.

PoB Hotels has partnered with Olympic legend Victoria Pendleton to create a selection of incredible itineraries inspired by Britain’s favorite sports. Her own “An Inspiring Sporting Odyssey” takes you through the heart of the Cotswolds,letting you try your hand at everything from cycling to kayaking.

For the tennis enthusiast, there’s the “Game, Set, and Match” Break, a journey across the UK that culminates at Andy Murray’s Cromlix Hotel, complete with its very own Wimbledon-coloured tennis court.

Feeling the need for speed? “Discovering Sussex By Bike” will test your cycling abilities with a mix of flat coastal paths and challenging South Downs climbs.

No matter your chosen sport, you’re guaranteed a luxurious stay at some of the finest independent hotels in Britain. Think plush rooms, exquisite dining and decadent spas – the perfect way to unwind after a day of exertion.

So, are you ready to “Get Set, and Go”? Head over to the PoB Hotels website to explore the full range of breaks and start planning your active escape today!