Thanks to the horror genre of film, cabins located in the woods, or really near any mass of water, tend to get a pretty bad reputation.
We've recently discovered, however, a relatively new hideaway of the most stunning log cabins and lake houses nestled on the shores of Lough Oughter in the centre of Ireland's lake district in Co. Cavan that will most certainly give you chills. Not so much a 'I might get murdered here' chill but more of a 'I can't believe I get to stay here for two nights' spine tingle.
Cabu by the Lakes is all about providing guests with a private, tranquil place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of every-day life. Around the site of 28 cabins and houses there is an abundance of breath-taking scenery and fun activities at your doorstep - think woodland walks, forest bathing, bike rides, boat rides around the lake and even fishing if that's what takes your fancy.
There's also a magnificently designed communal area, referred to as the Sitooterie, where you can mingle with your fellow cabin-goers, relax on the plush soft furnishings as you cosy up by roaring log fire. If you're feeling playful there's also a bunch of classic games are your disposal like giant Jenga, connect four, playing cards and table tennis.
Perhaps most crucially there is also a trio of outdoor jacuzzies available for use of which you get one free session included in your stay, with the option to book additional slots at €20 for a 45-minute soak (any longer and you might start to prune).
Once you've exhausted the site's many recreational options (although we're not sure that's possible with how much is on offer at this place) you'll inevitably wish to retire to the privacy and comfort of your personal cabin and boy, are you in for a treat in there.
The fully detached, one bedroom cabins come in two distinct designs: traditional log cabins for maximum cosiness, and contemporary loft cabins for something a bit more mod and trendy though still incredibly relaxing.
We could wax lyrical about the cabins' many quirky design features, but the proof really is in the pudding or, in this case, in the TripAdvisor reviews.
"The finish is well thought through from the superb oven and range to the deep trough like Belfast sink down to the little details like the eco-friendly washing up liquid and Who Gives A Crap? toilet paper (50% of their profits goes to providing proper toilets in developing countries)," wrote one user in a rave review of Cabu by the Lakes.
"You can toast marshmallows over your own fire at the Sitooterie and there is a selection of 'giant' games like Jenna to keep you and younger guests entertained," another user advised.
If all this talk of roasted marshmallows, outdoor jacuzzies and giant Jenga has sealed the deal for you, you can book a minimum two-night stay at Cabu by the Lakes here.
Be prepared to spend a pretty penny though - luxury like this doesn't come cheap, a night in one of these cabins will cost you circa €220. But then, can you really put a price on your relaxation?
Featured Image Credit: Cabu by the LakesTopics: Ireland