It
would be rude to say that Cwmberach Uchaf was ever abandoned. This
80-acre farm on the western edge of the Black Mountains had been in
the family for generations and today retains a character and charm
that all comes from being extremely well looked after. But all the
same, the 15-year period between the previous and the current
generation was certainly a time in which it ‘returned to nature’
– a passing of time that allowed the pastures to grow into thick,
shaggy carpets of waist high grass and dry-stone walls to hide
beneath the moss.
Thankfully,
current owners Mark and Sarah have decided not to fight the changes
but embrace them, an attitude that has resulted in one of the finest
glamping spots in all of Wales. The farm has become a natural haven
and, though very much a thriving business with sheep, ponies, goats
and beehives, it is also a wonderfully diverse and uncultivated space
where habitats of woodland, moor and mountain thrive. For a proper
glamping holiday in the great outdoors you need look no further.
Cwmberach
Uchaf offers three traditional shepherd's huts in total, each
sleeping up to four people – making them great for families as well
as couples here to explore the Brecon Beacons. Each hut has a bunk at
one end and sofa beds at the other (bedding and linen provided) with
a wood-burning stove in between and vintage-style oil lamps for added
ambience. When the sun sinks over the mountainous horizon, there's a
real sense of tranquility as the light cast by the flames flickers
against the wood-panel walls.
Outside
the Shepherd Hut there is a canopy kitchen area, storage
units and all the pots, pans and utensils you need.
You will also find a large decked area covered by a dining shelter
with a BBQ and some chairs where you can kick back and dine al
fresco,
perhaps with some of the farm's own food bought from their honest
shop. Sitting there, looking out and enjoying views over the Amman
Valley and the Black Mountain there's no doubt you'll be keen to
start exploring. The rest of the Brecon Beacons National Park spreads
for some 50 miles more to your west, while its a 35-minute drive to
the coast. Closer to home, meanwhile, Mark and Sarah are also happy
to provide tours of the farm, introducing you to the animals and
demonstrating how they collect the honey from their bees. Visit in
spring and you may even get the chance to bottle feed some lambs!