Forest house built in 1911 with luxury pool up for sale for almost £9m

The Breakers, located on Saltgrass Lane in Keyhaven, has been thoughtfully reimagined for modern living while preserving its historical character. Situated on three acres of beautifully maintained grounds, this impressive property is only in its third ownership since its construction in the early 20th century.

The extensive grounds feature a stunning limestone-framed swimming pool, several well-kept lawns, a paddock, and a variety of alfresco dining areas—perfect for enjoying the outdoors. Practical amenities include a boathouse complete with a wine store, a double carport, and a plant room, adding both convenience and charm to the estate.

According to the property listing from UK Sotheby’s International Realty, “The grounds are as considered as the house itself. A limestone-framed swimming pool is the centrepiece, ideal for a sunrise swim or evening dip after a day on the water.”

Inside the main house, the sitting and family rooms face southward, offering beautiful views over the water. The expansive kitchen and living room open onto broad terraces that capture the late afternoon sun, creating inviting spaces to relax and entertain.

The home boasts five bathrooms and includes a thoughtfully reimagined annexe. Linked to the main building yet fully capable of standing alone, the annexe provides guest accommodation with its own principal suite, two additional bedrooms, and an open-plan kitchen and living area.

The Breakers perfectly blends timeless elegance with contemporary comforts, set in a picturesque riverside location that offers both privacy and stunning natural surroundings.
http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/25519741.new-forest-house-built-1911-hits-market-8-95m/?ref=rss

When in Europe, explore these car-free villages

When in Europe, Explore These Car-Free Villages
By Simran Jeet | Oct 01, 2025

Europe is dotted with several charming car-free villages, perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. These villages invite you to explore their beautiful landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture on foot or by bicycle. Enjoy fresh air and tranquility—a welcome change from the noise of urban environments.

### 1. Hallstatt: A Lakeside Gem
Located in Austria, Hallstatt is renowned for its stunning lakeside setting and well-preserved medieval architecture. The village is accessible only by foot or boat, which helps maintain its serene atmosphere. Visitors can wander through narrow streets lined with charming houses and visit local attractions such as the historic salt mine and the skywalk offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

### 2. Giethoorn: The Venice of the North
Giethoorn, in the Netherlands, is often called the Venice of the North due to its picturesque canals. This unique village has no roads, so the best way to get around is by walking or renting an electric boat. The peaceful waterways and quaint thatched-roof houses create the perfect setting for a leisurely exploration of charming bridges and peaceful scenery.

### 3. Civita di Bagnoregio: The Dying Town
Perched atop a hill in Italy’s Lazio region, Civita di Bagnoregio is known as “The Dying Town” because of its slowly eroding cliffs. The village is accessible only via a footbridge from the nearby town of Bagnoregio. History lovers will appreciate its ancient stone buildings and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in Italy’s rich past.

### 4. Mont Saint-Michel: An Island Commune
Mont Saint-Michel, France, is famous for its stunning medieval architecture and unique tidal island location. While accessible by road during low tide, it becomes isolated like a true island at high tide. Visitors can explore narrow streets that lead up to the historic abbey while enjoying spectacular views of the surrounding bay.

### 5. Rothenburg ob der Tauber: A Medieval Marvel
This German town on the Romantic Road is a well-preserved medieval treasure. Rothenburg ob der Tauber features a car-free zone that lets visitors leisurely stroll cobblestone streets lined with half-timbered houses. Its famous Christmas market and year-round festive spirit make it a distinctive destination for travelers seeking an authentic blend of history and culture.

Escape the noise and crowds of the cities by visiting these enchanting car-free villages in Europe, where every step is a journey through history, nature, and tranquility.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/where-to-find-car-free-pedestrian-villages/story

Petra’s hidden gems: Lesser-known sites to explore

**Petra’s Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Sites to Explore**
*By Simran Jeet | Sep 24, 2025, 02:13 PM*

Petra, the ancient city in Jordan, is world-renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history. While most tourists flock to the iconic Treasury and Monastery, there are several lesser-known sites in Petra that are equally fascinating. These hidden gems offer a unique glimpse into the city’s diverse past and architectural marvels. Exploring these sites provides deeper insight into Petra’s cultural heritage beyond the usual hotspots.

### 1. The Royal Tombs: A Majestic Burial Site

The Royal Tombs are a group of elaborate tombs intricately carved into the rock face. Built for Petra’s elite citizens, these tombs are renowned for their grand scale and detailed facades. Visitors can admire the intricate carvings while learning about the burial customs of the ancient Nabataeans. Compared to more popular attractions, the Royal Tombs offer a quieter, more reflective experience, allowing visitors to appreciate their historical significance without the crowds.

### 2. The Great Temple: A Monumental Complex

The Great Temple is one of Petra’s largest architectural complexes but often goes unnoticed in favor of more famous landmarks. This massive structure consists of interconnected rooms and courtyards, hinting at its important role in religious and social activities. Excavations here have revealed numerous artifacts that suggest it functioned as a pivotal center for worship and administration in ancient Petra.

### 3. The Byzantine Church: A Glimpse into Early Christianity

Nestled within Petra’s expansive landscape, the Byzantine Church stands as a testament to early Christian influence in the region. This site is famous for its stunning mosaics depicting scenes from daily life and nature, offering a window into the artistic styles of the time. The church’s architecture differs notably from other Petra structures, highlighting the diverse religious practices that once thrived here.

### 4. Al-Beidha: The Little Petra Experience

Located just a few kilometers from Petra’s main site, Al-Beidha—also known as Little Petra—is a smaller settlement featuring similar rock-cut architecture on a more intimate scale. The site is characterized by narrow canyons lined with carved facades, allowing visitors to closely observe Nabataean craftsmanship without the crowds that gather at Petra’s larger counterpart.

### 5. The High Place of Sacrifice: A Spiritual Summit

Perched atop Jebel al-Madhbah, the High Place of Sacrifice offers breathtaking panoramic views over Petra’s landscape below. This sacred site was historically used for rituals involving offerings made by priests on behalf of community members seeking divine favor or guidance from their gods. Visiting this spiritual summit provides not only stunning vistas but also a deeper understanding of the religious practices of ancient Petra.

Exploring these hidden gems enriches your Petra experience, unveiling the city’s rich cultural layers beyond its famed landmarks. For travelers seeking history, architecture, and tranquility off the beaten path, these sites are a must-visit.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/petra-s-hidden-gems-lesser-known-sites-to-explore/story

Petra’s hidden gems: Lesser-known sites to explore

**Petra’s Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Sites to Explore**
*By Simran Jeet | Sep 24, 2025, 02:13 PM*

Petra, the ancient city in Jordan, is world-renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history. While most tourists flock to the iconic Treasury and Monastery, there are several lesser-known sites within Petra that are equally fascinating. These hidden gems offer a unique glimpse into the city’s diverse past and architectural marvels, providing visitors with deeper insights into Petra’s cultural heritage.

### 1. The Royal Tombs: A Majestic Burial Site

The Royal Tombs are an impressive group of elaborate tombs carved directly into the rock face of Petra. Built for the city’s elite, these tombs stand out for their intricate facades and grand scale. Visitors can admire the detailed carvings and learn about the burial practices of the ancient Nabataeans. Compared to the more frequented sites, the Royal Tombs provide a quieter experience, allowing for a more contemplative appreciation of their historical significance.

### 2. The Great Temple: A Monumental Complex

The Great Temple is one of Petra’s largest architectural complexes but often remains overshadowed by other landmarks. This massive structure consists of a series of interconnected rooms and courtyards, reflecting its importance in religious and social activities. Excavations at the site have uncovered various artifacts that suggest it served as a center for worship and administration, offering a fascinating look into the everyday life and governance of Petra.

### 3. The Byzantine Church: A Glimpse into Early Christianity

Nestled within Petra’s expansive landscape, the Byzantine Church stands as a remarkable testament to early Christian influence in the region. The site is famous for its stunning mosaics that depict scenes from daily life and nature, showcasing the artistic style of the era. Architecturally, the church differs from other Petra structures, highlighting the diverse religious practices that once thrived here.

### 4. Al-Beidha: The Little Petra Experience

Located just a few kilometers from Petra’s main site, Al-Beidha—or Little Petra—is a smaller settlement featuring similar rock-cut architecture on a more intimate scale. Visitors can explore narrow canyons lined with carved facades, offering an up-close look at Nabataean craftsmanship without the crowds typical of the larger Petra site. It’s a perfect spot for those seeking a quieter, more personal experience.

### 5. The High Place of Sacrifice: A Spiritual Summit

Perched atop Jebel al-Madhbah, the High Place of Sacrifice provides breathtaking panoramic views over Petra’s stunning landscape below. This sacred site was historically used for ritual offerings conducted by priests on behalf of the community, seeking divine favor or guidance from the gods. Its elevated position and spiritual significance make it a powerful place to reflect on the ancient religious practices of Petra.

Exploring these lesser-known sites adds depth and richness to any visit to Petra, unveiling fascinating stories beyond the well-trodden paths. Whether you’re intrigued by ancient burial customs, religious heritage, or art and architecture, Petra’s hidden gems promise unforgettable discoveries.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/petra-s-hidden-gems-lesser-known-sites-to-explore/story

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