Hergest Lee Hideaways

It is always worth getting off the beaten track, especially in Wales. Nestled in the unhurried and tranquil hamlet of Burlingjobb near Presteigne, Hergest Lee is a unique retreat that seamlessly blends cutting edge contemporary design with the natural beauty of rural Powys. This bespoke, handcrafted cedar cabin, designed and lovingly constructed by your affable and generous hosts Paul & Rachael Gent, draws its sinuous inspiration from Hanter Hill (one of the oldest hills in Wales) on the other side of the valley opposite, its undulating form mirrors the contours of the surrounding landscape. It sits very contentedly within in its verdant environment.

The interior of The Cabin exudes a mid-century modern aesthetic, featuring an eclectic collection of carefully selected furnishings, think Ercol chairs and a soft leather Souby sofa, a marriage of style and comfort. The open-plan living area is finished with unique décor sourced from local artists and antique fairs, adding character and a personal touch to the space. A floating staircase leads to a snug mezzanine sleeping area, offering a cosy retreat within the cabin. There is even a dreamy tub with a view.

Large windows bring in that calming natural light to flood the space, enhancing the connection and bringing the outside, inside. There’s no television here by design, inviting guests to step outside and lose themselves in the beauty of the surrounding countryside.

The use of sustainable natural materials and a muted colour palette emphasizes the cabin's low impact relationship with its surroundings. Outside, we loved the private deck and the firepit, a ‘time stands still’ spot to relax and soak in the views.

If you need a bit more space(its the same footprint as the cabin), The Lean To is a few metres away at the northern end of the old threshing barn with room for 2 adults and up to 2 children per property. The mid-century vibe and on-trend interior design is continued, with the high ceilings adding an airy feel to a relatively cosy footprint. The sunken bath and the gorgeous Ib Kofad Larssen headboard often grace the pages of glossy magazines. With its weathered timber and open views, it catches the best of the light, whether that’s the first gold of morning or the last blush of dusk. It’s where muddy boots are left to dry after a long walk, where a glass of something good tastes even better with the breeze on your face. On soft days, the rain patters overhead while the hills beyond mist over, wrapping you in the quiet, unhurried rhythm of rural Powys.

Most of all, Hergest Lee's commitment to sustainable design, and respect for nature, is front and centre, making it a perfect choice for the environmentally conscious traveller seeking a genuine one-off hideaway.