About Us
Welcome to Retallack Retreats
At Retallack Retreats, we believe the best holidays are the ones that feel like coming home—only better. Nestled in the heart of England’s most tranquil countryside, our carefully selected self-catering cottages and hotels offer more than just a place to sleep; they offer a sanctuary from the everyday.
Our Mission
Our mission is simple: to connect travelers with authentic, comfortable, and thoughtfully curated retreats that let them truly unwind. Whether you're a family seeking quiet mornings with coffee on the porch, a couple looking for a romantic getaway, or a solo adventurer craving solitude amid rolling hills, we’re here to help you find the perfect base for your English escape.
What We Offer
We specialize in handpicked self-catering accommodations across England’s most beloved regions—from the misty moors of Dartmoor to the historic villages of the Cotswolds. Each property is chosen for its character, cleanliness, and connection to the local landscape. You’ll find fully equipped kitchens, cozy fireplaces, gardens to wander, and the little touches that make a stay feel personal: local teas, handwritten notes, and maps to hidden trails only the locals know.
About Elara Thistlewood
Retallack Retreats was founded by Elara Thistlewood, a lifelong lover of the English countryside and a seasoned traveler who once spent years searching for the perfect quiet retreat—and realized most didn’t exist. After years of staying in impersonal rentals and overpriced hotels, she decided to create something better. What started as a list of favorite cottages she’d stayed in became a curated collection built on trust, personal visits, and a deep respect for the places and people who make these retreats special.
Why We Exist
We exist because we believe holidays should restore, not exhaust. Too often, travel becomes a checklist of sights and stress. We want to change that. Our goal is to help you slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect—with nature, with loved ones, and with yourself. Every property we feature has been chosen not for its Instagram appeal, but for its soul.
Our Approach
We don’t just list accommodations—we get to know them. Elara personally visits every property, speaks with hosts, and tests every detail: the quality of the bedding, the warmth of the welcome, the clarity of the instructions. We don’t partner with big chains. We work with small owners who treat their homes like treasures. And we never compromise on honesty. If a cottage doesn’t meet our standards, it doesn’t make the list.
Contact Us
We’d love to hear from you—whether you have a question about a property, need help planning your stay, or just want to share your favorite English countryside memory. Reach out anytime at [email protected]. While our team is based in Vancouver, Canada, our heart and focus are firmly in the English countryside, waiting to welcome you.