The elements of happiness? How about a beautiful landscape, fresh country air, good food and wine, an engrossing novel, a log fire to warm the night — and no reception. At Re:hof Rutenberg in Lychen, Brandenburg, going back to basics feels like a luxury. That’s thanks to the love and care that owners and artists Marieken Verheyen and Martin Hansen have dedicated to developing their two-hectare plot of land into a countryside getaway over the past three years. Amidst heritage apple and pear trees and an organic vegetable garden, a converted barn, old vicarage, spacious loft and three private ecolodges invite you to escape the demands of city life. The aim of Re:hof is to be as self-sufficient and energy-independent as possible. That means solar energy panels, dry composting toilets, and a plant-based filtration system to recycle waste water. Here, in the middle of the Uckermark Lakes Nature Park, with its pine forests, bucolic meadows, and crystal clear lakes, it’s all about doing nothing except getting cozy within beautiful interiors (designed in collaboration with the architect Peter Grundmann) with generous glass windows offering sweeping views out onto idyllic fields. A sauna, an outdoor hot tub and a small shop stocked with organic produce ensure you have everything you need to unwind completely. Ready to plan your next escape? Book here, and quickly at that — Re:hof’s calendar fills up fast. (Text & photos: Anna Dorothea Ker)
Re:hof Rutenberg, Dorfstr.23, 17279 Lychen, Brandenburg; map
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