Pop-up glamping in the Welsh countrysideWales, United Kingdom
There are some amazing sights to be seen in the UK, however Wales often gets overlooked. It shouldn't. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Wales's dramatic landscapes and fascinating Celtic culture is with a stay at Epic Retreats, a new pop-up glamping experience in the country's northern wilds.
Appearing in two locations – deep within the valley of Llanfihangel y Pennant in the heart of Southern Snowdonia and along the fringes of golden beaches in Llŷn Peninsula – you'll find eight unique abodes, complete with a luxe bed, ensuite and wood burner or stove. Each one is a winning design created by architects from around the globe, and each features a unique backstory inspired by the ancient mythology and natural beauty of Wales.
There's the Animated Forest, which draws on the Welsh Poem Cad Goddeu; The Battle of the Trees, with its design resembling a creature making its way through the woodland; and the wide and glassy Dragon's Eye, offering outstanding views from its circular rotating bed and, when lit up at night, the very image of an eye peering out through the darkness. For stargazers, the Sky Hut, with a ceiling that cracks open to reveal the heavens above – based on the tale of Cadair Idris, a mountain created by a giant warrior poet to best view the stars. There's also a breakfast tent, communal area and staff on site 24-hours a day.
Depending on your length of stay you can choose to explore the surrounding area at your leisure, or take part in a stack of adventure-filled activities crafted by Cambria Tours that will take you deep into the pages of Welsh history, including learning how to forage in the wilderness, local wine and beer tastings, hiking through Snowdonia National Park and discovering archaeological wonders.
In the evenings settle in around a crackling campfire and tuck into a hot, fresh meal crafted from local produce while being serenaded by your live entertainment as the sun sinks down below the mountains, reminiscing on myths and legends. Now that's epic.
- Eco-toilet and shower
- Log burner
- USB charger socket
- Hamper of local goodies
- Breakfast tent
- Communal fire pit
There are two-, three-, four- and seven-night packages to choose from, starting from about US$550, including a welcome evening complete with campfire, dinner and live entertainment.
Epic Retreats
epicretreats.wales
Cambria Tours
cambriatours.co.uk
You can learn all about each pod’s backstory on the country’s Channel 4 series Cabins in the Wild.