Rural Retreats was founded in 1985 with the aim of making the countryside more accessible for holidaymakers and giving them the best possible choice of holiday homes across the UK. Rural Retreats’ continuing success is based on excellent local knowledge and painstaking research, together with a flair for finding delightful and unusual properties. All of this has enabled us to build a portfolio of over 450 exceptionally fine holiday homes in stunningly beautiful locations, all available for you to rent. When you are looking for your own perfect holiday home, our experienced and helpful staff can help to point you to the property of your dreams. Whatever you want to ask about any of our properties, there will be someone on our staff who knows the cottage or apartment at first hand.

Set amongst the olive trees in a secluded, quiet and peaceful location, Olive Tree House is a unique, oak clad, romantic bolt hole boasting stunning rural views. The village of Ripe is within walking distance and the historic town of Lewes and the Sussex coast are both just an easy 20 to 30 minute drive away.

Information correct at time of writing. For your holiday food essentials make sure to visit Ripe Village Stores which has delicious local produce, wines and its own café serving drinks, and homemade cakes and light bites. Close to Ripe are some good pubs, many of which are dog-friendly pubs. Recommended places to try include The Ram Inn, The Barley Mow and the Roebuck Inn to name a few. A short 10 minute drive takes you to Middle Farm with its farm shop, deli, cider barn and tea shop. Middle Farm also has an open farm to visit – a great family friendly option. The Seven Sisters Country Park and the Cuckmere Valley are excellent spots for coastal walks and sea views, while Seaford is a quiet seaside resort with sandy beaches. Feeling adventurous? Flight Sport Aviation offer light sport aircraft lessons and pilot training just down the road from Cherry Cottage. Further details can be provided by your host before your stay (see Notes). Places of historic interest nearby include Lewes Castle, a 1000 year old Norman Castle, Michelham Priory House & Gardens and Charleston Farmhouse, once the home and country meeting place of the Bloomsbury Group. Glyndebourne is an English country house that hosts a variety of opera productions throughout the year. Families will love Drusillas Park with a zoo, soft play areas and rides suitable for all ages.