If you're struggling to think of gift ideas for your next birthday, you could always pop a handmade yurt onto the wish list. There's a man in West Wales who masterfully crafts these Mongolian abodes, but if owning the ultimate in glamping chic is a dream too far, two of his creations are open to bookings on the gorgeous organic farm where they are made.
Tucked away in a secluded valley amid the majestic Preseli Mountains, Fron Farm Yurt Retreat is set on a 56 acre organic farm. A setting so utterly idyllic, even the red kites and buzzards that circle overhead swoop down for a closer inspection.
The aforementioned yurtsman (the dexterous Guy Cutler) lovingly crafts his creations from locally-sourced, sustainable wood. Each yurt comes with a double bed and two fold down futons, giving ample room for a family of four... or space to swing a family of cats if there's just the two of you. There's storage for all your stuff and comfy seating, as well as a wood burning stove which comes with a stack of kindling to get the stove started. On a warm summer's evening, there's nothing quite like reclining outside in the glow of the fire pit, admiring the patchwork of twinkling stars this unspoilt part of the world affords.
While the accommodation here doesn't compromise on comfort, a stay at Fron Farm is exactly that – a bona fide farm experience. Guests will have the proper great outdoors experience, wandering the sheep-dotted pastures and meeting the resident goats and chickens. Ask amiable host Natasha in advance if you can watch the daily milking and help to collect your morning eggs for breakfast. Be sure to bring your walking boots too, for the route leads past the pond, through an enchanting woodland and straight to the local pub.
Sitting on the border of Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire, Fron Farm is the perfect place from which to explore West Wales and all it has to offer; from mountain walks and bike riding to beachcombing and surfing, as well as local culture. But the main attraction to this hillside hideaway is its seclusion and the peace and tranquility it offers. So why not sit back, switch off and enjoy the solitude for a moment.
The Preseli Hills offer stunning views and plenty of walking routes. Laugharne, home to Dylan Thomas, and Llanstephan, with a beautifully situated castle, are both less than half an hour away. The Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire coasts are all 25 minutes drive away. Amroth beach, the southern start of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path is the nearest swimming beach.
Onsite there is a communal roundhouse kitchen/dining area with a wood-burner. This is a pretty remote area but the nearby villages of Llanboidy and Glandwr are both within a 10 minute drive if you're looking for a local pub and a bite to eat. The Jabajack (01994 448786) vineyard and restaurant is a 10 minute drive away and serves tasty locally sourced, seasonal food.