Single-storey Burggraaf is a modern design classic, beautifully decorated in minimalist, contemporary style. Built within the grounds of West Axnoller Farm, it is an exciting self-catering venue for 12, with glass walls, urban-chic bedrooms and a fantastic contemporary fireplace.
Groups of mixed ages will find plenty to do here – there’s an indoor, Roman bath-style swimming pool, a sauna, an outdoor cedar hot tub and a games room/gym. The house looks out on one side over a private courtyard studded with bleached limes, and on the other across rolling Dorset downland. Beyond the farm, it’s only six miles to the sea at West Bay and to wonderful walks along Dorset’s Jurassic coast.
If you number more than 12, and you decide to combine booking Burggraaf with neighbouring Voltaire which also sleeps 12, there is a large room in Voltaire where you can all eat together.
The whole house is thoughtfully designed with clean lines and modern furnishings. The kitchen, crafted locally, has polished stone surfaces and an easy-to-use stainless steel range and gas hobs.
The dining area seats 12 around a darkwood table. The white-covered chairs and contemporary tableware are worthy of many a city restaurant. This area opens onto the living area with deep, comfortable sofas.
There are six bedrooms, all with the same high quality, super king double beds that can be unzipped to provide two singles. No expense has been spared on linen and pillows, and all the rooms have ensuite bathrooms, most with baths as well as showers, fitted in a sleek chrome and brushed nickel. Lighting throughout is arranged with designer flair, and the floors throughout are modern polished concrete.
The indoor pool has its own room, loungers and terraced area. Spa treatments can be booked in the house with visiting therapists. There is also a yoga teacher available, for both adults and children.
The house is well geared up for families, with all the necessary baby and toddler accessories available. There are lots of games and a Nintendo Wii.
The garden area has an outdoor fireplace and various chairs including a weatherproof sofa.
Meals can be delivered to your door, always imaginative dishes using fresh, local ingredients whenever possible.
Three miles from the town of Beaminster, midway between Dorchester and Lyme Regis, not far from Crewkerne. It is six miles down to Dorset’s delightful Jurassic coast.
Airport: Bournemouth (1hr 20 mins)
Station: Crewkerne (10 mins)
This is Thomas Hardy Country, but is probably better-known nowadays as Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall Country! At Burggraaf you can cook for yourselves if you care to, or let your catering needs be taken care of by one of several renowned local chefs. Great, locally-produced food is a Dorset speciality - try the weekly market in Bridport. You can also have one of the many local delis, butchers and green grocers or a supermarket deliver here in time for your arrival. When you’re ready for a meal out you’ll find some excellent restaurants and pubs.
This stretch of coast, known as the Jurassic for its prehistoric remains, has some fabulous beaches. Activities in the area include fishing, riding, quad bike riding, clay pigeon shooting. There are also historic gardens well worth a visit.
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2012 Rates:
Low Season (January, February, March, November, December):
Weekend: £1,950.00 Mid Week: £1,450.00 Week: £2,500.00
Mid Season (April, May, June, September, October):
Weekend: £2,500.00 Mid Week: £1,950.00 Week: £3,250.00
High Season (July, August):
Weekend: £2,950.00 Mid Week: £2,950.00 Week: £4,950.00
Christmas:
Weekends: On Request Mid Week: On Request Week: £4,750.00
New Year:
Weekends: On Request Mid Week: On Request Week: £5,000.00
February Half Term:
Weekend: £2,500.00 Mid Week: £2,500.00 Week: £3,950
Spring/Autumn Half Term:
Weekend: £2,750.00 Mid Week: £2,750.00 Week: £4,500
Easter School Holidays:
Weekend: £2,750.00 Mid Week: £2,750.00 Week: £4,500.00
Bank Holidays (excluding August):
Weekend: £2,750.00 Mid Week: £2,750.00 Week: £4,500.00