Pond View Lodges

Quality counts. Especially when you are escaping the real world, pressing pause for a few blissful days. These two, purpose built, gentle impact, stunning Pond View Lodges, at the gateway of the Brecon Beacons National Park, have been developed with uncompromisingly exacting standards, and thoughtful touches driving every detail.

They are carefully placed in the rolling Carmarthenshire hills, clad in gently weathered larch to blend with nature, and to maintain the peace and privacy that comes with solitude. Ash and Oak, Steffan and Gill’s brand-new luxury pods, feel exactly right, overlooking the wildlife pond from which the name is inspired. They sit easily in the countryside, almost as if they have been here forever. Supremely comfortable, but without unnecessary frills, it’s hard not to breath out and relax. The best bed linen, fully equipped kitchen, wi-fi ( if you really must! ), furry throws, cosy hotel-style bathrobes and Myddfai toiletries make this hidden gem a real find.

Oak, the smaller cabin, with its airy open plan style, is ideal for a romantic break, whilst Ash, with its extra sofa bed, and life-affirming outdoor shower, could accommodate a family looking for an off the beaten track adventure.

As the sun sets, light the firepit, grab a glass and head for a soak in the hot tub overlooking the valley, then stop the world in the hammock, listen to the owl’s chatter as the stillness brings a proper kip. Refreshed after a piping hot alfresco shower, there is plenty of great walking, for both two and four legged guests. There is even a thoughtfully fenced safe dog-training area. Days out in bustling Llandeilo, the National Botanic Gardens or Dylan Thomas’ birthplace, Laugharne are within reach, but with those inspiring panoramic views of the mountains, it is tempting to take on the mighty Pen-y-fan, the highest peak in the National Park.