Roulotte Retreat – where Scottish and French Romany boho chic meets the luxurious Orient Express with delicately hand-crafted and hand carved French Romany roulottes.<\/p>\n
In the heart of the Scottish Borders there is a gorgeously grown up collection of seven romantic Roulottes (French style Gypsy caravans), each secluded around wildlife ponds in the wild flower meadow.\u00a0\u00a0In the woodland garden next door is the charming Horseshoe Cottage, complete with authentic 1930\u2019s Ruby Bowtop and additional eco sauna beneath the Scots Pine trees.<\/p>\n
These adult only roulottes offer wellbeing additions of eco hot tub, outdoor wood fired copper bath tubs and wood fired eco saunas with panorama windows looking towards sunset.<\/p>\n
Six of the roulottes\u00a0sleep 2 adults and one (Rosa Bella sleeps 2-4 adults), in double or queen sized beds. Horseshoe Cottage sleeps up to 6, with 4 in a double bedroom and twin bedroom in the Cottage and 2 in Ruby Bowtop.<\/p>\n
Guests leave their stresses far behind them when they enter Roulotte Retreat where the location offers the perfect place to relax, re-connect and revitalise the soul in the re-wilded meadow and woodland. Enhance your stay in the peaceful meadow listening to birdsong, watching wildlife, walking in nature, swimming in open water nearby,\u00a0\u00a0star gazing from the eco hot tubs, practising yoga or enjoy a massage.\u00a0\u00a0Switch off from the busy-ness of life whilst being mindful of the surrounding natural environment.<\/p>\n
Cosy in by the wood-burning stove, switch off your phone, watch the dancing flames or dine al fresco and listen to the nature channel outside \u2013 just bliss!<\/p>\n
The Roulotte Retreat<\/b><\/p>\n
Each roulotte includes salon sitting area, kitchen facilities, bedroom, shower and washroom\/toilet.\u00a0\u00a0Heating by wood burning stove and electric radiators. Kitchen includes fridge, small oven with two rings and grill, kettle, cafeti\u00e8re, kitchen utensils, crockery, cutlery and glassware. Mains water, suitable for drinking and powerful showers.\u00a0\u00a0Outside garden furniture for alfresco dining.<\/b><\/p>\n
Bedlinen and towels, eco hand soap, eco washing up liquid, olive oil, salt and pepper are included.\u00a0\u00a0Eco logs for the inside wood burning stove and firelighters are provided.<\/b><\/p>\n
All roulottes are two night minimum stay.<\/b><\/p>\n
Karlotta\u00a0<\/b>(sleeps 2)<\/i>\u00a0Magnificently carved in art deco style with Celtic knot work designs, entwined Celtic horses, wildflowers and foliage.\u00a0 Wood of wild cherry and chestnut, oak and pine. Colourful rich purples, reds and golds with the essence of Morocco are the colours of the sari curtains, bed linen and throws. Colourful red and blue stained glass windows offer beautiful reflections.<\/p>\n
Shivanni<\/b>\u00a0(sleeps 2)\u00a0<\/i>Our Himalayan roulotte is adorned with carvings of ancient India and resplendent in shades of blue, ochre and gold. Himalayan in influence she will delight you with her beautiful salon, complete with Indian daybed and quirky portholes to the east and west. She is suitable for two with a queen size bed. Situated in the far corner of the meadow with a wooden deck facing out towards the beautiful sunset where you can hear the gurgling of a nearby waterfall and stream.<\/p>\n
Rosa Bella\u00a0<\/b>(sleeps 2-4 & dog friendly)\u00a0<\/i>Enjoy the deep jewel colours of lapis lazuli, turquoise, ruby, garnet and gold in this spacious Dutch Roulotte, reminiscent of the Orient Express. Rosa Bella offers room for two to four guests with a double bedroom and a romantic alcove bed complete with colourful drapes. Relax in the Bohemian salon bedecked with colourful fabrics in front of the wood-burning stove. Rosa Bella is our quirkiest and most spacious roulotte which offers more room for two or can accommodate up to four in two double beds.<\/p>\n
We welcome guests with one well behaved dog for an additional fee of \u00a310.00 per night.\u00a0\u00a0A raised wooden deck offers outside space for al fresco dining.<\/p>\n
Please note due to free roaming chickens nearby we ask guests to\u00a0kindly keep their dogs on the lead at all times, when at Roulotte Retreat. There are some beautiful walks through woodlands and up the Eildon Hills nearby.<\/i><\/p>\n
Roulottes with additional wellbeing features of hot tub, copper tubs and wood fired sauna<\/b><\/p>\n
Devanna\u00a0<\/b>(sleeps 2)<\/i>\u00a0\u00a0Indian style \u2018peacock and paisley design\u2019 with carvings of peacocks as well as delightful paisley pattern carvings of ancient henna designs, in wild cherry, chestnut, oak and pine wood. The interior of Devanna reflects the rich natural shades of blues, greens, purples and gold of the peacock\u2019s rich plumage.<\/p>\n
A secret sunset spot with eco hot tub is hidden behind Devanna and at the front is a wooden deck with views towards the meadow.<\/p>\n
Eco hot tub<\/b>\u00a0is \u00a3100.00 for two nights exclusive use and \u00a315.00 for each additional night.<\/p>\n
Gitana\u00a0<\/b>(sleeps 2)<\/i>\u00a0Enchanting with carvings in walnut of wild strawberries spiralling around, hidden fairies creating spells, butterflies and leaping hares. Beautiful butterfly windows with stained glass windows and doors filter the morning and evening light so colours abound in this magical space. Gitana is bedecked in reds and greens of the wild strawberry plant. The eco copper bath tub is tucked away at the side of Gitana offering privacy for star gazing\u00a0whilst lounging in the tub. Decks around Gitana offer space for al fresco dining.<\/p>\n
Wood-fired copper bath tub\u00a0<\/b>is \u00a3100.00 for two nights exclusive use and \u00a315.00 for each additional night.<\/p>\n
Zenaya\u00a0<\/b>(sleeps 2)\u00a0<\/i>Oriental style, in reds and shades of gold, the colours of Zenaya create a beautiful palette throughout. Beaded lights create whimsical shadows in\u00a0her beautiful salon, complete with Indian daybed and wood burning stove.\u00a0\u00a0Bedroom with queen size bed entered through a wooden \u2018temple entrance\u2019 is complete with sunrise porthole, and the washroom area with sunset portholes.<\/p>\n
Zenaya\u00a0has her own secluded outdoor wood fired copper bath tub for private star gazing\u00a0and a deck at the front for al fresco dining beneath the willow trees.<\/p>\n
Wood-fired copper bath tub\u00a0<\/b>is \u00a3100.00 for two nights exclusive use and \u00a315.00 for each additional night.<\/p>\n
Maharani \u00a0<\/b>(sleeps 2)<\/i>\u00a0offers relaxation in a Rajasthani inspired Roulotte Retreat version of the \u2018Palace on Wheels\u2019. Ornate carvings of elephants and lotus ponds create the ambience of an Indian Palace. Beautifully painted in rich purple and greens with silk sari curtains and velvet throws, Maharani and her elephants await you. The sustainable walnut interior gleams with hand carvings, whilst the textures and colours envelop you in luxury. Elephant ear shaped windows with pale green ripples echo the lotus-filled ponds of India.<\/p>\n
Relax in the Maharani wood fired eco sauna, where guests can\u00a0watch sunset and wildlife whilst relaxing and benefitting from the warmth of the eco sauna.<\/p>\n
Wood fired Eco Sauna<\/b>\u00a0is \u00a3100.00 for two nights exclusive use and \u00a315.00 for each additional night.<\/p>\n
Hot Tubs<\/b><\/p>\n
There are three Roulottes with wood fired tubs suitable for two people \u2013 Devanna, Gitana and Zenaya.\u00a0 For an additional surcharge the eco hot tub is fired up ready for your arrival and you will be shown how to operate for the next day, plus extra eco fuel for your stay, additional towels and bathrobes to relax in.<\/p>\n
These roulottes with eco tubs are for guests who would like to bathe under the stars for the duration of their stay. If you don\u2019t wish to book the hot tub then it is best to choose another roulotte to allow others the chance to enjoy this elemental experience.<\/p>\n
Being Cosy and Cooking in the Roulottes<\/b><\/p>\n
It\u2019s always cosy in our wooden Roulottes, due to insulation in the walls, floor and roof with heating in each Roulotte by wood-burning stove and electric radiators.<\/p>\n
Roulotte Retreat is self catering and all roulottes have kitchen utensils, pots and pans for cooking, crockery, cutlery, cafetiere, champagne flutes, wine glasses and bottle opener, as well as Baby Belling cooker with oven, grill and two electric rings, fridge, kettle and toaster \u2013 all you need for the hygge ambience, wining and dining.<\/p>\n
Horseshoe Cottage and Ruby (the authentic 1930\u2019s Bowtop Romany Caravan) – 3 night minimum stay.<\/b><\/p>\n
For larger parties or groups with children, there is Horseshoe Cottage (sleeping 4) and the romance of Ruby sleeping 2 (the Bowtop Romany caravan), in the woodland garden. Decorated in beautiful jewel like shades, reflecting the authentic colours of Ruby beneath the Scots pine trees in the woodland garden. Offering a bright spacious sitting room with views of the meadow and Eildon Hills, the cottage comprises of a galley kitchen, bathroom with shower, double and twin bedroom. The cottage is warm and cosy with oil fired central heating as well as the ambience of the wood burning stove.\u00a0\u00a0It is well equipped with cooker, fridge\/freezer, microwave, dishwasher, washing machine, small tv\/dvd and cd\/radio player.<\/p>\n
In Ruby you can experience the romance of sleeping under the stars in this lovingly restored Bowtop Caravan. We can let you into a little secret, the beautiful lace adorning Ruby is \u201clingerie lace\u201d.<\/p>\n
There is a spacious wild woodland garden in front with garden furniture and beautiful west facing view for sunset drinks beneath the Scots Pines. Woodland car parking for two cars. Children are very welcome in Horseshoe Cottage although Ruby the Bowtop is an adult only stay. Up to two dogs are welcome in Horseshoe Cottage only, for a surcharge of \u00a310.00 per dog per day.<\/p>\n
To book Horseshoe Cottage and Ruby get in touch with us directly, either by email or phone to organise. Follow the website link in red at the top of the page to reach our website.<\/p>\n
Horseshoe Cottage has an eco sauna with panorama window<\/b>\u00a0offering exquisite views to the west across the fields towards sunset in the woodland garden \u2013 \u00a3115.00 for three nights exclusive use and \u00a315.00 for each additional night.<\/p>\n
Local activities<\/b><\/p>\n
The Eildon Hills and River Tweed surrounding Roulotte Retreat offer great hikes and strolls, with St Cuthbert\u2019s Way which starts in Melrose and ends at Lindisfarne meandering by the meadow. The Yarrow and Ettrick Valleys offer resplendent territory for exploring the wildness of the area. Great mountain biking terrain nearby as well as the perfect walking base for your stay whether a gentle stroll or more strenuous hike.\u00a0 Make a day of it and visit\u00a0Scotland\u2019s capital, the city of Edinburgh, only 55 mins by train or visit the historic abbey town of Melrose, home to the famous Melrose Rugby Sevens in April and for book lovers, there\u2019s the Borders Book Festival in June.<\/p>\n
Visit the many stately homes and houses, forts, towers and castles that are in abundance all over the Scottish Borders. Traquair House is the oldest inhabited and most romantic house in Scotland. Other attractions include: Thirlestane, Floors, Niedpath, Fatlips, Hume and Ayton castles, Abbotsford, Mellerstain, Manderston, Bowhill and Paxton House, Smailholm and Hume Towers.<\/p>\n
Visit William Wallace up in the woodlands, a gigantic red sandstone monument towering above the River Tweed. The Tweed and other Borders rivers are also the mainstay of the traditional weaving, textile and paper industries. Famous names in knitwear, cashmere and tartan all hail from the Borders, centring on the towns of Selkirk, Hawick, Melrose and Galashiels.<\/p>\n
Bring your own or hire bicycles or electric bikes and explore the countryside on two wheels and for the more adventurous there\u2019s Glentress Mountain Biking trails and 7Stanes only 30 minutes away at Innerleithen.<\/p>\n
The Scottish Borders is home to the many Common Riding Festivals where gatherings of up to several hundred horses and riders, ride the \u2018marches\u2019 checking the boundaries are still intact, the most famous being Selkirk, Hawick, Jedburgh, Kelso, Lauder amongst others. A spectacular sight where you can join in with all the local activities \u2013 June-August. Many horse riding centres offering hacks up the hills and lessons are nearby.<\/p>\n
Your base at Roulotte Retreat is a walker\u2019s paradise, with wildlife and nature, woodland and tranquillity. There\u2019s low level walks for all abilities as well as gentle strolls along the River Tweed. You will find a great selection of eating out options from fine dining, bistro style, cafes, hotels and quirky watering holes. Your hosts can also arrange local caterers for special events on request.<\/p>\n
Getting Married at Roulotte Retreat and Celebrate in Style<\/b><\/p>\n
Tying the knot and arranging an exquisite elopement stay or small wedding can be arranged at Roulotte Retreat. A Humanist Celebrant or Registrar can be booked in advance and your hosts are only too happy to help you plan your Special Day,\u00a0with all the best of local suppliers.\u00a0 Escape and runaway to get married \u2026 its just magical!<\/p>\n
Groups, Events, Workshops at Roulotte Retreat<\/b><\/p>\n
We can offer accommodation up to 22 staying on site and sharing space for family get togethers, groups and workshops with our 1930\u2019s wooden Studio being the Group Space.\u00a0 We occasionally offer events \u2013 Yoga, Wellbeing, Creative Writing, Photography, Art, Foraging, Gin Tasting, Music, etc. We also offer Roulotte Retreat as a venue for Group Facilitators and Teachers wishing to bring their students so please get in touch if you\u2019d like to host an event, workshop or retreat.<\/p>\n
Getting to Roulotte Retreat<\/b><\/p>\n
Roulotte Retreat lies beneath the Eildon Hills, near Melrose in the heart of the Scottish Borders.\u00a0 Travel by car, bus or train and pick up taxi to bring you the last couple of miles of your journey.\u00a0 If you are travelling by public transport, bicycles can be hired locally so that you can explore the countryside during your stay.\u00a0 Precise directions will be given upon booking.<\/p>\n
Rates\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n
Please see the availability link for current rates as prices vary according to mid week or weekend, low, mid or high season, duration of stay and whether in a two person or four person roulotte.\u00a0 Additional fees apply for wellbeing facilities of tubs and saunas.<\/p>\n
Reviews:\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n
\u201cWe were given this Roulotte experience as a gift a few years ago and we loved it so much we have been back many times now. This has become our \u201cgo to place\u201d for rest, relaxation and together time. We stay mostly in Zenaya because of the hot tub which is just utterly wonderful. Everything about Roulotte Retreat is happiness making, from the natural, beautiful and wild meadow, to the peace, the sounds, the sky at night, the ambience\u2026. I could go on forever!!
\nThe Roulotte has a shower that is better than ours at home, and we love the wood burner, all the quirky features and especially the most comfortable bed. We always sleep so deeply and so well when we are here\u2026indeed it is one of the things we look forward to when we arrange our next visit. We always go back feeling rested and ready to take on the world again.
\nAvril and Alan are so warm, welcoming, helpful and fun to be around\u2026. just like being with good old friends and we value that hugely.
\nWriting this just makes us long to be back. Highly recommended if you want a complete escape from the pressures of work and life and you yearn for a rest and a thoroughly good sleep!!\u201d<\/i><\/p>\n
\u201cHaving seen the retreat many moons ago on a Scottish travel programme we had always wanted to visit \u2013 at last we got there!
\nWhat an amazing place so quiet and relaxing and the hot tub was just brilliant. The roulotte was comfortable and cosy best sleep I\u2019ve had in a long time. It\u2019s not the cheapest of places to stay but for something entirely different I\u2019d definitely recommend.
\nWatching a shooting star from the hot tub and listening to all the birds and nature all around you was just that wee bit special.\u201d<\/i><\/p>\n
\u201cAvril is wonderful in communicating. Alan is wonderful also. everybody working there is so too. We had the most wonderful (is 3 times wonderful) adventurous stay for three days there. All Roulottes have their individual charm. I can\u2019t express in words the silence, the songs of the birds, the baby sheep in a field nearby, the bliss and the magic. We took the very well served hamper for 2 days which largely served us for the 3 days and nights. A most amazing experience. Thank you so Avril. You are the best and most kind and gentle host I ever encountered.\u201d<\/i><\/p>\n
\u201cOur wedding day was perfect in every way! Avril and Alan (the owners of Roulotte Retreat) are kind, thoughtful and totally laid-back. They create a very relaxed atmosphere in their unique, and outstandingly beautiful home and surroundings. It was our choice to elope and have the wedding that WE wanted. We stayed in the cottage at Roulotte Retreat, which was perfect for us. It was very spacious, well equipped, a lovely log-burner in the lounge, beams and very nice soft furnishings. If you\u2019d like to be totally at one with nature, peace and tranquility and the darkest starry night skies then this is the place. We had the most memorable day. Jane the registrar from the Scottish Borders arrived half an hour before the wedding to meet with us. We had decided to include the Hand-Fasting ritual as part of our ceremony, this requires a piece of tartan material which is wrapped around both bride and groom\u2019s hands in such a way that when you are pronounced Husband and Wife and let go of your hands a knot is tied in the tartan \u2013 hence the term Tying the Knot. Photographer Phil was just fabulous. He was extremely patient and a lot of fun. He didn\u2019t miss any opportunities to capture the photo-bombing hens or Bear the dog who had wandered over to have a nosey at what was going on. Love, Happiness, Kindness, Nature, Animals and Fun!\u201d<\/i><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Roulotte Retreat – where Scottish and French Romany boho chic meets the luxurious Orient Express with delicately hand-crafted and hand carved French Romany roulottes. In the heart of the Scottish Borders there is a gorgeously grown up collection of seven romantic Roulottes (French style Gypsy caravans), each secluded around wildlife ponds in the wild flower […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":24,"featured_media":17104,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"template":"","listing_type":[351,262,271,260,294,264,265,257,258,275,284,288,279,261,274,297,289,263],"room_type":[54],"amenities":[215,26,219,49,220,222,229,230,232,233,238,98,241,242,243,132,254,161],"facilities":[],"listing_countries":[172],"listing_states":[177],"listing_cities":[213],"listing_areas":[],"class_list":["post-17016","listing","type-listing","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","listing_type-best-budget","listing_type-cosy-collection","listing_type-dog-friendly","listing_type-dream-weddings","listing_type-glamping","listing_type-great-for-2","listing_type-honeymoons","listing_type-hot-tubs","listing_type-in-the-wild","listing_type-minimoons","listing_type-off-grid","listing_type-proposal-stays","listing_type-rustic","listing_type-sensational-sunsets","listing_type-shepherd-huts","listing_type-short-breaks","listing_type-tiny-houses","listing_type-writers-retreats","room_type-entire-place","listing_amenity-baby-cot","listing_amenity-barbecue-area","listing_amenity-coffee-machine","listing_amenity-dishwasher","listing_amenity-dog-friendly","listing_amenity-dvd-player","listing_amenity-garden","listing_amenity-hairdryer","listing_amenity-highchair","listing_amenity-hot-tub","listing_amenity-laptop-friendly-workspace","listing_amenity-microwave","listing_amenity-no-smoking","listing_amenity-open-fire-woodburner","listing_amenity-outdoor-furniture","listing_amenity-sauna","listing_amenity-washing-machine","listing_amenity-wi-fi","listing_country-scotland","listing_state-scottish-borders","listing_city-melrose"],"yoast_head":"\n