British nature-led destination operator Elysium Retreats, a subsidiary of the Sight Acre Group, has unveiled an ambitious growth programme aiming to expand its portfolio by up to 12 new UK destinations over the next two years. The company currently operates two sites, Fairwood Lakes in Wiltshire and Benview Lodges in Stirlingshire, on the edge of the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.
A rollout structured around three levers
The group states that this expansion will draw on a combination of acquisitions, refurbishments of existing leisure parks and the creation of new destinations on selected UK sites. According to Elysium Retreats, this strategy responds to sustained demand for upmarket domestic breaks centred on nature and wellbeing.
Elysium Retreats AT A GLANCE | A subsidiary of the Sight Acre Group, Elysium Retreats develops leisure destinations shaped by their natural surroundings, combining lodge-based accommodation with outdoor experiences. The group currently operates Fairwood Lakes in Wiltshire, offering waterside lodges, forest lodges and a floating lodge, as well as Benview Lodges in Stirlingshire, close to Aberfoyle and the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. Sustainability, outdoor experiences and support for local producers and communities are central to the group’s positioning.
A strengthened organisation to support the scale-up
This growth programme rests on a recently consolidated operational foundation. Elysium Retreats appointed Matt Pressman as Operations Director in May 2026, tasked with overseeing the operational performance of the existing portfolio and building the systems, service standards and processes needed to support the arrival of new destinations.
Matt Pressman brings multi-site experience in hospitality and leisure. He previously served as General Manager of Mole Resort in Devon between February 2024 and May 2026, having been Resorts Director of the St Mellion Estate in Cornwall from 2021 to early 2024. His career also includes a role as Resort General Manager at Aria Resorts.
A distinct identity for each destination
The group stresses that this growth programme is not intended to replicate a single model across sites. Each destination will need to retain an identity shaped by its surroundings, while ensuring consistent quality across the portfolio. This approach, which favours territorial distinctiveness over standardisation, reflects a broader trend seen among several operators positioned in ecotourism and immersive nature-based hospitality.
Outlook
With this roadmap, Elysium Retreats is positioning itself in a growing segment of the UK domestic leisure market, driven by demand for short breaks focused on wellbeing and reconnecting with nature. The announced scale-up, combined with the recent strengthening of operational governance, points to a group seeking to build a national offering without giving up the local roots of each of its destinations.
At a Glance
Elysium Retreats targets up to 12 new UK destinations within two years
Growth to be delivered through acquisitions, refurbishment of existing leisure parks and new-build retreat development
Current portfolio: Fairwood Lakes (Wiltshire) and Benview Lodges (Stirlingshire, near Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park)
Matt Pressman appointed Operations Director in May 2026 to lead the operational scale-up
Strategy prioritises distinct destination identity over a uniform, replicated model
Positioning centred on nature-led hospitality, wellbeing and support for local producers and communities
