Natural Retreats

A collection of contemporary wood-and-glass eco-cabins, each sleeping 4-6, hidden on a hillside above sweeping Swaledale

Here's how Conran might do camping. Take a leafy hillside overlooking Swaledale - one of the loveliest valleys in England - then plant a cool contemporary cabin among the foliage, with a cedar deck out front for alfresco dining, a huge glassy living space with a woodburner for chilly evenings, and 3 comfy bedrooms at the back to ensure a good night's sleep for the whole family. Add a parabolic roof planted with evergreen sedum to absorb the rain, throw in a hamper of organic yummies, a kitchen island complete with dishwasher and microwave, plus a directory of restaurants in case you prefer a takeaway. And Bob's your uncle. Comfy, chic and self contained - you need hardly step outside.

But, unless it's blowing a hooley, you really should. Nearby Richmond is home to a Norman castle with plunging views over the dark waters and foaming falls of the Swale. Downstream lie the meditative, neglected ruins of Easby Abbey. Drive upvale and you reach the hunkered stone cottages and hay meadows of Muker and Keld: deep Dale country, laced with hearty hikes and sensational cycle rides.

Highs

• A wonderful glass-fronted living-dining space with woodburner, widescreen TV/DVD and sofas for cosy evenings
• A lovely terrace for summer dining, which flows seamlessly into the shrubs and woods of the 54-acre reserve
• Proper bathrooms, some with a full length bathtub and a separate rain shower
• Richmond is one of Yorkshire's most underrated towns, and the region boasts more abbeys, waterfalls, caves and footpaths than you can shake a Leki stick at

Lows

• Some of the 18 cabins are less secluded than others, and glass fronts mean you can be seen - though there are blinds
• The bedrooms and bathrooms feel a bit boxy and plain by comparison with the splendid living space
• Being so deeply embedded in the vegetation, views are not always long and sweeping (but great for birdwatching)
• If you're after a traditional stone cottage with rustic interiors, look elsewhere