It’s rained all night and for much of the day when I pull on my hiking boots and venture out to explore. Trees are moaning in the chilling wind as I look back at De Hoek, an imposing stone mansion standing in misty isolation like a scene from Wuthering Heights.

Fortunately, all eerie images are dispelled the moment you step through its heavy wooden doors. Warmth envelopes you, friendly staff members materialise, and the only evil spirits are those waiting in the cosy bar.