Sometimes, being at home and out in the countryside is a feeling you just can't beat.
Virginia Water, in my hometown of Surrey, I'd say is best visited when it's covered in great big plumes of azalea and rhododendron in the spring. But in the winter months, it has it's own special appeal if you can visit on a day like we did, where everything's basked in a golden, autumnal glow.
It's no where near as busy and almost a bit magical when you can get off the beaten track and explore it's more secluded trails.
And there are still some flowers in bloom!
There are plenty of little hidey holes and secret passages to explore, quaint little bridges, leaves that look like stained glass windows and a whopping big lake in the middle to watch the sunset over, snuggled up together in your winter gear.
Of course, after a terribly 'exertive' day (throwing leaves and running around through forest like children...) you need to settle down for a hearty and warming dinner after the sun has set so we popped over the road to Piccolino's, the purveyor of tasty and good-value Italian food.
Our menu of choice; bruschetta, crab ravioli, rigatoni ragu and a touch of a good red wine.
A super simple, but amazing day.
As a final note, I ought to mention that I've had a hiatus from blogging. This has been due to illness and I'm hoping to be on the road to recovery and back posting on a regular basis.
You can't beat a winter walk! Virginia Water looks beautiful :) the food looks amazing at the end too!