A London-based writer has found a favorite escape in the form of a luxury glamping pod at Liba Vineyard, located just two hours from the city. The site, a collection of three pod-style homes in Porton, offers a secluded retreat without requiring a car. A 15-minute taxi ride from Salisbury station makes it accessible by public transport.
The writer, who frequently seeks countryside cabin stays, booked the Hawthorn Pod for an autumn trip focused on writing. All three pods, Hawthorn, Beech, and Elder, are available on Airbnb. Each sleeps four and includes a wood-fired hot tub. The Hawthorn Pod is slightly more snug, making it ideal for solo travelers or couples. The Beech pod is better suited for families with children, while renting all three is an option for larger groups.
A Rustic Retreat with Modern Amenities
Inside the Hawthorn Pod, the writer found a neutral, bright, and cozy space. The bathroom, a critical feature for any cabin stay, had a flushing toilet and strong water pressure. The kitchen is fully equipped, and an outdoor barbecue firepit adds to the experience. Notably, the Wi-Fi signal was excellent, making it possible to stay connected without leaving the pod.
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The property is situated along winding wood-chip paths. Beyond the pods, the vineyard is home to alpacas, chickens, and peacocks. A yoga class is offered twice a week in a studio located above the winemaking barn. The site’s location also provides easy access to local attractions. UNESCO World Heritage Site Stonehenge is a 15-minute drive away, and the Cranborne Chase National Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the New Forest are both under 30 minutes away.
Vineyard Expansion and Future Plans
The owners, Chris Reynolds and Louise Marshall, have ambitious plans for the vineyard. They aim to produce up to 10,000 bottles of wine annually in the coming years. Reynolds gives every guest a tour of the land, a feature that will become more popular once wine is available for tasting. In the meantime, the vineyard offers a subscription model where visitors can sponsor a vine in exchange for wine, pod stays, and invitations to events like harvest parties. The property is already certified organic and is working towards biodynamic certification within the next nine months.
Future developments include booking the 10-acre farm for weddings next summer. Plans for an on-site café and additional activities to complement the yoga studio are also in early discussion. For the writer, the mornings were a highlight, waking to the sound of peacocks and enjoying the fresh air while cooking over a fire. Since returning, they have longed for the calm and mindfulness that the stay provided.