Review: Inside the off-grid Derbyshire cottage with its own lake on the Chatsworth Estate

I love the freedom of a self-catering break. Nobody cares if you go down for breakfast in your PJs. At 11am. Swiss Cottage, set deep within the Derbyshire countryside, offers a sense of escape like no other I've experienced.

This beautiful period property on the Chatsworth Estate is as off-grid as you could imagine. No neighbours, no traffic, just stillness, peace and endless acres of woodland.

The cottage is one of dozens of idyllic properties dotted around the 35,000-acre Estate (making it roughly the size of Oxford but with far fewer bicycles to dodge) and if you're looking for a short break that's the definition of true romantic escapism or a family getaway where you can make as much noise as you like, Swiss Cottage is the one to book.

You follow a two-mile private drive to reach this three-bedroom, three-bathroom bolthole, which even has its own lake right outside the back door.

Swiss Lake was dug out to feed The Cascade, the stepped waterfall that remains one of the most significant features of Chatsworth gardens just a couple of miles away (although funds are needed to get it working again).

We spent three nights here with our Labradoodle, Oscar, who was very much a fan of all that open space, though we sensed he was mildly disappointed by the lack of cats.

Swiss Cottage was designed by Joseph Paxton in the late 1830s as an "eye-catcher" for walkers and riders enjoying the estate. Amenities-wise, it's home-from-home with an impressively well-equipped kitchen (dishwasher, washing machine, clothes dryer, microwave) plus a dining room and even a study in case you're tempted to briefly pretend you're working. Wi-Fi's pretty good.

Also on the ground floor is a twin bedroom with en suite. Little extras, like a Nespresso coffee machine, stacks of books and family games plus a barbecue for warmer days, elevate your stay way beyond the basics.

No country retreat is complete without a real fire and Swiss Cottage has two, with logs and kindling provided for your stay. Linen and towels are also included. If you forget your slippers, don't worry - even the stone floor in the hallway is heated.

The first floor is where you'll find two double bedrooms which lean into comfort rather than show, with warm, softly layered tones and classic touches like brass bedsteads, patterned fabrics and traditional artwork. There’s a gentle, lived-in feel to them.

The windows, with their elegant, arched design, frame the surrounding landscape beautifully. Step outside and you’re immediately immersed in the Chatsworth Estate, with miles of walking routes, from gentle lakeside strolls to more dramatic Peak District trails, all quite literally on your doorstep.

From the cottage, you can wander through Stand Wood, follow gentle paths around the lakes, or simply set off across open parkland where deer often roam freely. It’s the kind of walking that doesn’t require planning - just a pair of boots and a vague sense of direction.

For something more structured, the estate offers miles of well-marked trails linking some of its standout features. The walk down to Chatsworth House itself is wonderful. If you've never visited Chatsworth House you're in for a treat, although for me the real attraction here is the fantastic gardens, where Capability Brown worked his magic in the late 1750s.

A trip to the famous farm shop is a must - if anyone you're travelling with isn't keen on a visit, overrule them immediately. While you're in the farm shop trying not to buy everything you see, you'll spot many of the items that await you in a welcome hamper when you first arrive at the cottage. Nice touch.

The riverside paths along the Derwent are particularly lovely, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. And it's remarkably easy to ensure that a long morning walk ends up at a pub.

Don't miss The Beeley and Pilsley Inns which are right on the estate and just 10 minutes by car from your cottage. We ate at both (the early dinner two-course option for just £15 is great value - the food is fabulous) and the staff are warm and welcoming. They're the sort of pubs you wish were your locals and it's no surprise that the menus feature meat reared on the estate.

Venture slightly further afield and you’re straight into the wider Peak District, where the walking becomes more dramatic. Highlights include Baslow Edge for sweeping views across the estate; Curbar Edge and Froggatt Edge for classic Peak District ridge walks and Bakewell, for a gentler stroll combined with cafés and shops.

There is a strong likelihood that one stay in this beautiful part of Derbyshire will turn into visit after visit. The great news is that there is no shortage of other fabulous properties to be found on the Chatsworth Estate and everything is showcased beautifully on the Chatsworth Escapes website.

Here are some properties to look out for:

Dunsa Cottage (sleeps two) - a snug retreat and perfect base for exploring all that the Peak District has to offer.

Keeper's Cottage (sleeps four) - a stunning property with far-reaching views over the Chatsworth parkland and peaks.

Kingfisher Cottage (sleeps six) - a beautiful home in the pretty valley of Monsal Dale.Moor View (sleeps eight) - ideally located with views of Edensor village, Chatsworth and the Hunting Tower.

Ball Cross Farmhouse (sleeps 10) - ideal for larger families or groups with a mix of period charm and modern comfort.

There are also more unusual properties to experience:

Oak Tree (sleeps 2) - this gorgeous Shepherd's hut with fire pit looks out on an imposing oak tree and views of Chatsworth Park.

The Hunting Tower (sleeps four) - not too far from Swiss Cottage, this 16th century tower offers breathtaking views of the estate.

Russian Cottage (sleeps four) - overlooks acres of farmland and woodland.

The Pilsley Inn - offers a range of beautiful rooms at various prices. Ideal if you want to enjoy a drink and not have to worry about getting home.

The Beeley Inn - you'll collect your keys to Swiss Cottage here from the ever-smiling Sam. Fine food and log fires await, along with a wonderful night's sleep.