Camping with comfort
Nestled down a long, uneven farm track off an undulating road between Goathland and Egton, La Rosa is the perfect place for a different romantic retreat. Bohemian cool meets the Gypsy chic in this eco-friendly haven, popular with nature-lovers.
Set among beautiful wild countryside, you’ll find a selection of caravans that have been lovingly restored and decorated for guests, each with its own special character. They have been furnished with a collection of fascinating nicknacks, books and curiosities.
‘La Rosa’ itself is a stunning caravan complete with beautiful etched mirrored surfaces, strewn with tealights and trinkets. The first time you enter, the effect is breathtaking. Glass cabinets contain black and white books about the art of burlesque, alongside china teacups, kitsch ornaments and vintage fabrics. Team the attention to detail in the decor with the warmth from the wood-burning stove and you have a very cosy, stylish place to stay for a romantic weekend – ideal to relax in after a bracing walk across the moors.
Woodland wonders
Head outside, following candlelit paths through the trees, past abandoned fairground waltzer cars, to mingle with fellow wilderness-seekers by the campfire. You can also cook meals, take an outdoor bath in a secluded orchard, or head to the big top, where rails of fancy dress clothes and a communal dining area await.
If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll find one caravan set up as a shop, with all sorts of delightful old-fashioned treats from which to take your pick, and an honesty box for payment.
If you’re a green-fingered gardener, you’ll appreciate the magnificent roses growing at the side of the wooden shepherd’s hut, which houses the entirely natural, sawdust-enhanced composting toilet facilities.
Explore on foot
If you feel the need to leave this little paradise in search of real ale, you can follow the paths heading out of the site, through woodland and over streams
to the nearest pub, the Birch Hall Inn at Beckhole. It’s a relatively short walk beneath the stars, although you may need to leave a trail of breadcrumbs to avoid getting lost in the woodland as you make your way back.
For a day of walking nearby, you’re ideally situated to head off to the attractions of the North York Moors, including the Wheeldale Roman Road walk (see our August issue, page 74), or head to Egton Bridge or Glaisdale to explore the Esk Valley walks.
The North York Moors contain more than 1,400 miles of paths, so there should be plenty to keep you busy before you return to camp for a little rest and relaxation.
Useful Information
HOW TO GET THERE
La Rosa campsite is between Goathland and Egton, eight miles from Whitby. Buses run from Goathland or Egton, then it’s a 20-minute walk.
FIND OUT MORE
La Rosa
Goathland
YO22 5AS
01947 606981
EAT
The Woodlands Café
The Valley
Sandsend
Whitby
YO21 3TE
01947 893438
Café bar serving fresh food.