FlairBnB
Wales is beautiful enough as it is, but it gets even better when you combine with some of the places you can stay around the country. Poppy Manning rounds up some of the most unique.
Geodome
Talachddu, near Brecon Beacons
Escaping all your worries and leaving technology behind, The Geodome looks like a mini Eden Project and relies solely on natural lighting, with only candles and lanterns for the evenings. A wind-up radio and board games provide the entertainment; this unique stay is perfect for a couples’ retreat where you can relax in front of a woodburning stove in armchairs looking up to the stars.
Guide price: £485 for 3 nights. Info: www.argoedbarns.co.uk
Melin Newydd Windmill
Tynlon, Anglesey
A restored windmill situated in the countryside of Anglesey. Inside the luxury décor will make you feel at home, but there’s the unique layout of the area as well, with a spiral staircase curling throughout. A balcony on the third floor provides views for miles, perfect for the holiday snaps.
Guide price: from £505 for 7 nights. Info: www.cottages.com
Cherry Berry Lodges
Near Abergavenny
At the foothills of Sugarloaf Mountain, you will find the Huts and Lodges at Cherry Berry. These huts have taken on the glamping trend and offer a cosy experience in Abergavenny, as well as breakfast and lockable facilities for your walking gear, to make your stay as easy-going as possible. That will be extra-handy after a long day exploring the terrain of the Brecon Beacons that’s on your doorstep.
Guide price: £40 a night per person; £60 a night for 2 people. Info: www.cherryberrylodges.co.uk
Den By The Stream
Llangoedmor, near Cardigan
You reach a certain age where you think it’s only children that want to sleep in dens and treehouses, and then you realise that, actually, there’s few things better. This Peter Pan-esque escape brings those childhood memories alive. Waking up in the morning to sounds of the stream, the Den By The Stream also shares its back garden with otters and badgers.
Guide price: £320 for 3 nights. Info: www.canopyandstars.co.uk
The Jet Star
Redberth, Pembrokeshire
Once a private plane that would have carried nine passengers, The Jet Star is an experience like no other with most of its original features still intact. Recommended for a couple or a small family of four, facilities include an Xbox in the cockpit to stay entertained! No turbulence to be found here.
Guide price: £125 per night. Info: www.applecamping.co.uk
The Majestic Bus
Radnorshire Hills, near Hay-on-Wye
Keeping it all love and peace and taking you back to the 1960s, the Majestic Bus oversees panoramic views over green valleys. The bus has a handcrafted kitchen with a wood-burning stove, camping at its finest and completely unique.
Guide price: £245 for 2 nights. Info: www.majesticbus.co.uk
The Shepherds Hut
Hay- On-Wye
Looking out onto the hills of the Brecon Beacons you’ll find The Shepherds Hut, handcrafted locally with a focus on materials also sourced from the area. No more thought could have gone into this space as every single detail has been crafted for your comfort: luxury glamping with a wet room incorporating a shower, basin and “upmarket self-composting loo”.
Guide price: £230 for 2 nights. Info: www.argoedbarns.co.uk
Weache Bus
Near Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire
First a majestic bus, and now a double-decker! Stationed amongst 22 acres on a private nature reserve, this bus sleeps up to six people with a fire pit outside. No doubt the timings are more reliable than Cardiff bus services.
Guide price: £140 for 2 nights. Info: facebook.com/olympianglamping
Upton Castle
Upton, Pembrokeshire
A B&B where you can stay and feel like a prince and/or princess, with fine location and service. There’s the opportunity to eat breakfast within the castle as well as experience the sheltered gardens that have been tendered to for hundreds of years. A real peaceful escape, and a chance to unwind within a spectacular setting.
Guide price: upon request. Info: www.uptoncastle.com
Hobbit House
Pengenffordd, Brecon Beacons
Live out your Lord Of The Rings dream by staying in a Hobbit House, without the threat of marauding orcs or Ringwraiths, whilst taking in the special views available. Even if you’re not inclined to the odd fantasy film here or there, this is a space you’ll want to stay in.
Guide price: £60 per night. Info: www.airbnb.co.uk