8 | LUXlife Magazine ack in 2018, Louise Monk was walking her dog Archie in the stunning Lancashire countryside when she hit upon an idea. She wanted to showcase the fabulous surroundings that she got to appreciate every day growing up on her family farm. The dynamic duo Louise and Chris had met when they were teenagers, soon falling in love and later marrying. Raising three children, Louise helped Chris run his successful haulage firm - now a large haulage business, Monks Contractors, based in Mellor Brook employing over 120 local people. When the kids were grown, Louise developed a burning ambition to create a signature business herself. Four years later, Everything Retreat opened its doors to visitors for the first time. Louise says, “We are truly blessed to have some of the best views f or as far as the eye can see. I’d completed a hospitality degree whilst bringing up the kids, so it was easy to see the potential to create something amazing on our doorstep. I said to Chris, “I’m going to build lodges on this land and make them so luxurious that people will travel from all over the country to enjoy what we take for granted”. Construction of the first lodges on site was underway when the COVID-19 pandemic threatened to derail plans in early 2021. Fortunately, Louise had chosen to work with the local craftsmen who built her family home. The tea m hatched a plan which involved scheduling work on different lodges simultaneously. Work continued and everyone remained safe. In July 2022, Everything Retreat was ready for business. Today, the site offers luxury accommodation across a total of 12 in dividual lodges. Six Unique lodges themed around some of Louise’s favourite holiday destinations include Itambé (African theme), Koya (Japanese) and Skála (Scandinavian). Add to that, six identical Signature lodges designed to complement the outstanding natural beauty of the Ribble Valley and peaceful nights and chilled- out days are assured. Each lodge features a private hot tub, outdoor seating area and log burner for ultimate comfort. Everything Retreat’s concierge service assists guests with everything from transportation and recommending local attractions, to curating tailored experiences. The team are committed to making every stay an unforgettable experience. Opening on Fridays and Saturdays, the retreat’s aptly named ‘Balance Bar’ offers a range of delicious drinks and refreshing cocktails. There’s also a tantalising menu of dishes made on- site using locally sourced Best Idyllic Retreat CEO 2024 (North West England): Louise Monk Based in the scenic Ribble Valley, Everything Retreat is a luxury hideaway where nature takes centre stage. The brainchild of Louise Monk, Everything Retreat offers stunning lodges and beautiful landscapes, allowing their guests to kick back and enjoy the finer things in life without a care in the world. We take a look at this one-of-akind retreat and Louise’s journey to where she is now. B
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