I’ve always said there’s nowhere quite like Blighty when the sun shines. In fact, I’ve often claimed I’d never need to leave the UK if only we had the weather.
And while I do love to travel and explore new corners of the world, in the immortal words of Dorothy: there’s no place like home.
When I mentioned to friends that I was heading to Devon for a long weekend, the reaction was almost always the same: “Bit of a trek for a weekend”—quickly followed by, “But it looks stunning, I’d love to go there.”
And they’d be right — the drive from Yorkshire to North Devon is a trek. But as my girlfriend and I loaded our bags into the boot just as the sun cracked the sky at 5am on a bright Friday in May, we were more than ready for it.
A fairly seamless drive brought us to the scenic landscapes of North Devon by 11am — the whole day stretched ahead of us. As we rolled along the tree-lined driveway of The Mole Resort, the excitement kicked in. A girly weekend at a fabulous countryside retreat? Yes please — and as it turned out, it more than lived up to the promise.
Set in the heart of North Devon, The Mole Resort blends laid-back luxury with an active, outdoor lifestyle — all surrounded by some of the UK’s most picturesque countryside. Formerly Highbullen Hotel, the estate has been reimagined into a modern resort that offers the best of both worlds: premium lodges and hotel-style comfort, alongside a wealth of activities from pickleball to padel, swimming, spa sessions, and woodland walks. It’s the kind of place where you can do as much or as little as you like — all while soaking up that hard-to-beat West Country charm.
We were warmly welcomed by the friendly reception team at the resort’s impressive Hub — a cleverly designed space that blends check-in with a charming farm shop stocked with all the essentials for a short stay. Beyond that, we found a sprawling games room complete with pool tables and air hockey, plus a relaxed bar and lounge perfect for unwinding. With keys in hand, we took a short drive through the resort’s expansive greenery and manicured lawns before arriving at our weekend home — a rather striking two-storey wooden villa.
Now this was a bit of me. A contemporary two-bedroom villa spread across two floors, with a huge open-plan living space that ticked every box. The state-of-the-art kitchen came fully loaded with all the mod cons, while the generous dining area was perfect for entertaining. The lounge featured high-end sofas and opened out onto a private balcony — complete with a top-of-the-range hot tub overlooking the countryside. Grab the fizz, mate — we’re in!
Accommodation at The Mole Resort is designed to suit every kind of guest — from romantic escapes to family adventures and group getaways. Guests can choose between stylish hotel rooms in the original manor house or opt for one of the luxury eco-conscious lodges or spacious wooden villas, like ours. Each offers a blend of modern comfort and countryside charm, with fully equipped kitchens, open-plan living spaces, and private terraces — many with hot tubs and sweeping views of the Devon surroundings. Whether you’re there to relax, reconnect or celebrate, the resort provides a truly versatile base.
After a fairly long drive, we were exceptionally grateful to find that our villa was ready on arrival. While check-in is usually a little later, we lucked out — and wasted no time making ourselves at home. A quick stop for vital supplies (read: Cava and crisps), and we were straight into full relaxation mode. Fizz popped, bubbles bubbling, and the hot tub calling — the afternoon was spent doing exactly what we came to do: absolutely nothing.
Well, that’s not strictly true. For a Friday afternoon though — sat in a hot tub, glass of something cold in hand, overlooking the stunning Devon landscape with my bestie — does it really get any better? We spent most of the afternoon sunbathing on the balcony, soaking up every second of sunshine. By 5pm, we’d built up quite the appetite.
The hospitality team had kindly left us a rather opulent treat in the fridge: a pair of perfectly marbled ribeye steaks and all the trimmings. So, while my guest — yes, that’s you, Nicola — kicked back, I fired up the well-equipped kitchen and cooked up a storm. After one of the most blissful days basking in Devon sunshine, I sank into an expansive bed wrapped in crisp white linen, already excited for a slightly more active Saturday.
While The Mole Resort is the perfect place to switch off and unwind, it’s equally well-equipped for those who like to keep busy. The activity list is extensive and impressively varied — from indoor and outdoor swimming pools to pickleball, padel tennis, golf, and even axe throwing for the adventurous. Guests can join guided fitness sessions, head out on woodland walks, or challenge each other in the games room back at the Hub.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, there’s something to get stuck into — and it’s all set against the lush backdrop of the North Devon countryside. After a leisurely breakfast on Saturday, we decided to lean into our competitive side and head off to try something we’d both never done before: archery. Let the games begin…
Both of us had actually done archery before — but we didn’t let our instructor, Liam, in on that little detail. Especially not me. My last brush with a bow and arrow didn’t exactly hit the mark, and considering our session was shared with a group of rather enthusiastic (and alarmingly capable) children, I wasn’t about to start waxing lyrical about my past experience. Truthfully, I was fairly confident I was about to get thrashed by a 12-year-old.
And, as it turned out, I was absolutely right. Nicola bowed out early doors, deciding that sunbathing on a nearby grass verge was far more her vibe — leaving me to be thoroughly annihilated by a group of kids who clearly had far better aim and far less ego to bruise.
That said, the session was brilliant. Our instructor, Liam, was great fun, and the light-hearted competition kept everyone laughing — even if my arrows had a mind of their own. Slightly red-faced from my poor performance (and possibly the sun), I made a dignified retreat to join Nicola and indulge in one of The Mole Resort’s more relaxing offerings: a well-earned drink by the croquet lawn.
As luck would have it, we happened to witness the very first wedding ever held at The Mole Resort during our stay. While I’m not here to write about weddings, I have to say — the setting is effortlessly beautiful and feels purpose-built for celebrations. The lawn overlooks gentle green valleys, offering a picture-perfect backdrop, while the Pavilion — with its panoramic views and stylish design — makes a stunning space for a wedding breakfast or evening reception.
Not wanting to intrude on the couple’s special day, we opted instead for a stroll around the grounds, taking in the breathtaking North Devon countryside. Rolling hills, birdsong, and the scent of early summer in the air — it was nothing short of Devon heaven.
When it comes to dining, The Mole Resort has a strong offering that caters to everything from casual bites to more refined evening meals. The Cellars Bar & Restaurant serves up hearty, seasonal dishes using local produce, all in a relaxed, rustic setting that feels warm and welcoming. For something a little more elevated, The Bistro offers a menu that leans into modern British flavours with thoughtful flair — perfect for a celebratory dinner or date night. Whether you’re after a laid-back lunch or a three-course evening affair, the resort delivers comfort and quality in equal measure.
We decided to dine in again — honestly, after such a fun-packed day, neither of us could be bothered getting our glad rags on. And that’s the real beauty of The Mole Resort. You can do as much or as little as you like… and if you know me, you’ll know I usually lean toward the latter.
So we rounded off Saturday with another steak dinner on the balcony, birdsong for company and a sunset dip in the hot tub before calling it a night. I slept so well — the whole place is just so tranquil, with a kind of serenity that seems to hang gently in the air.
With a long drive ahead of us, we were up and off early on Sunday — both feeling a little melancholy about leaving so soon. We’d said more than once that although it was only a short stay, we could have happily stayed for a week… or longer. It’s just that kind of place: incredibly relaxing, beautifully kept, and packed with things to do — or not do, if that’s more your pace.
Yes, the drive from Yorkshire was long — but let me tell you, it was absolutely worth it. As a friendly local said to me, The Mole Resort is something of a hidden gem, even for those who live nearby. So if I were you, I’d book your stay now — before word gets out. And when you do… tell them I sent you.
Words by Joanne Brook-Smith – Visit, May 2025
The Mole Resort: Chittlehamholt, Umberleigh EX37 9HD
Tel: 01769 540561
