Unplugged – The Ultimate Digital Detox
Essential Journal meets the team behind Unplugged, an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, for a relaxing tech-free experience.
Words by Molly Bluett
In this era where screens pervade every part of our lives, the emergence of digital detox cabins has offered a much-needed sanctuary for those eager to disconnect. With the average adult now checking their phone 344 times a day – a 31% increase since 2021 – it’s no wonder people are seeking respite from the constant digital bombardment. Leading the charge in this movement is Unplugged, a trailblazer in providing tech-free retreats that beckon the “always on” to truly switch off.
With sites nestled in serene locales around the UK, and more recently expanding into the Pyrenees in Spain, Unplugged cabins offer a novel escape from the relentless digital grind, inviting guests to reconnect with both nature and themselves. Spending 3 days in nature can improve cognitive function by 50% and reduce stress levels by 70%.
Unplugged was conceived by two pals, Hector and Ben, who confessed to working hard, but also playing hard. Working alongside one another at a tech start-up, both were clocking up 11 hours of screen time a day, resulting in inevitable burnout. As both grappled with their own battles against burnout and screen addiction, Hector and Ben envisioned a sanctuary free from digital distractions.
Escaping their busy lives for space, Hector travelled to The Himalayas on a two week silent retreat where he spent time meditating and reflecting. Ben, less able to see himself meditating surrounded by monks, saw how recharged his friend was upon his return. From that, their ambition to create Unplugged rapidly grew.
Now across the UK, their cabins are strategically situated within easy reach of major cities, which makes them an ideal haven for busy urban dwellers. Stripped of WiFi and modern tech conveniences, these off grid sanctuaries foster an environment where guests can slow down and relish the tranquillity of the natural world that we so often ignore.
Recent growth has seen the business expand its footprint, forging partnerships with local suppliers and landowners in Spain, with the opening of cabins in Catalunya, just an hour from the hustle and bustle of Barcelona.
Their collaboration with local businesses has ensured that their cabins in the Pyrenees offer not only breathtaking vistas but also an authentic taste of local culture and heritage. These collaborations bolster the local economy and enhance the guest experience, blending the splendour of nature with the richness of the region’s traditions.
Visitors to the Spanish escape have lauded the transformative power of their Unplugged stay, extolling the serenity that comes from being detached from digital devices, finding joy in simple, analogue pleasures. The success of Unplugged’s offering and its regularly high interest from guests highlights the burgeoning appeal of digital detox cabins as a rejuvenating antidote to our technology consumed lives.
As we become increasingly conscious of our screen-centred existence, the allure of detox cabins like those offered by Unplugged grows ever stronger. These retreats provide a crucial opportunity to restore balance and well-being in your life, by offering a space to unplug and unwind. Whether it’s a brief escape from the hustle and bustle of city life or an extended retreat amidst the stunning landscapes of the Pyrenees, the digital detox experience is proving to be an invaluable means for many to disconnect from the virtual and reconnect with the real.
