Not sure what drink to order at an all-inclusive resort? This guide breaks down the best choices, from classic cocktails to safe hydration strategies, and uncovers what you actually get when the drinks are bottomless. Learn what to avoid, how to get the most quality (and fun!) out of your resort’s bar, and pick up some insider tips that’ll keep your vacation stress-free and refreshing.
Best Drinks for a Cozy Cottage Stay
If you’re booking a cottage with Retallack Retreats, the right drinks can turn a good weekend into a great one. You don’t need a fancy bar – just a few smart choices that fit a self‑catering setting. Below are the drinks that work best in a cottage, how to keep them fresh, and quick pairing ideas.
Everyday Essentials: Tea, Coffee, and Hot Chocolate
First up, the classics. A proper mug of tea or coffee is the backbone of a relaxed morning. Bring a small French press or a simple drip coffee maker – they’re easy to clean and don’t take up much space. For tea, pack a variety of bags (black, green, herbal) and a kettle. If you’re traveling with kids, add a few packets of hot chocolate; it’s a quick comfort drink after a chilly walk.
Storage tip: Keep all hot beverages in airtight containers and store them in a cool pantry or cupboard. That prevents moisture and flavor loss, especially if you’re staying for a week.
Refreshing Picks: Cider, Craft Beer, and Light Wines
When the weather’s warm, a cold cider or a crisp craft beer feels just right on the porch. Look for local English ales – they pair well with grilled sausage or a cheese board. Light white wines such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a dry rosé work nicely with salads and seafood dishes you might prepare in the cottage kitchen.
Keep drinks in a small fridge or a cooler with ice packs. If you don’t have a fridge, a well‑insulated cooler can keep bottles cold for a day or two, which is perfect for a short break.
Evening Comfort: Red Wine and Warm Cocktails
For dinner, a medium‑bodied red like a Merlot or a Pinot Noir matches roast poultry, beef, or hearty stews. If you enjoy mixing drinks, bring a bottle of gin, a few fresh citrus slices, and tonic water for a simple gin‑tonic. Even a warm mulled wine is easy – just heat red wine with cinnamon, cloves, and orange slices in a pot.
Remember to use a sturdy glass or mug to avoid spills on wooden floors. A small corkscrew and a wine stopper are handy tools that take up almost no space.
Non‑Alcoholic Options: Mocktails and Fresh Juices
Not everyone drinks alcohol, and a well‑made mocktail can feel just as special. Mix sparkling water with a splash of fresh fruit juice, a handful of mint leaves, and a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing spritzer. Freshly squeezed orange or apple juice also works as a quick breakfast drink.
Store any leftover juice in a sealed bottle in the fridge. If you’re staying in a cottage without a fridge, buy juice in small cartons that you’ll finish in one day.
All these drinks are easy to pack, store, and serve in a self‑catering cottage. By choosing a mix of hot, cold, alcoholic, and non‑alcoholic options, you’ll have something for every mood and meal. Pack what fits your taste, keep it fresh, and enjoy a relaxed stay at Retallack Retreats.