Shaftesbury: Bauernhöfe

wonderful hosts, perfect accommodation, very quiet, great surroundings for sightseeing and walks, we will definitely be back next year

Fifehead Magdalen is a beautiful little hamlet in the Blackmore Vale. Very rural , but close to many attractions in North Dorset and the bordering counties. Good farm shop and convenient petrol station Spar supermarket close by. We especially loved the more unknown Minterne Gardens and Athelhampton House and Gardens. The cottage is a heaven for book lovers and travel enthusiasts, so we immediately felt at home . As the owner is about the same age as us , we also loved the CD Collection and more than often listened to (e.g.) an old Simon and Garfunkel disc at the large kitchen table with a mug of coffee and lovely morning sunshine. That said, the living room is a bit dark during the day and the sofa and easy chair were old and lovely but sagging a bit. The cottage has a lovely lived in feeling and was decorated in a travel vibe theme with travel memorabilia , but cluttered (in a good way). So do not expect contemporary uncluttered chic. The cottage was very clean, but wear and tear can be seen. Not a purpose build holiday property but a real home you seem to have been given to stay in for a while by a trusting friend. Lovely country views from the back part of the back garden (bench) , but not from the patio because the garden shed is blocking the view. Absolutely great property to immerse yourself for a few days in , to quote from the guest book, “ the library of Dorset”.

We had a beautiful time on Cleeve Farm. Landscape is amazing, the pubs in the surrounding are really great (Royal Oak, Forester, King John and the Horseshoe). The Barn itself was fully equipped and decorated nicely and very important - it was very clean. Sarah is such a wonderful person, always open to help with advice. You will definitely enjoy your stay.