The Eco Barn

The winding Pembrokeshire lanes, tantalising glimpses of the ocean, trees leaning into the westerlies, and whitewashed farmhouses dotted around patchwork fields, build the anticipation as you head through the Abermawr Valley.

Hunkered down in the heart of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, the Eco Barn at Preseli Venture combines warm-hearted rustic charm with up-to-date modern comfort. This generously airy, recently restored Dutch barn is a treat for eco-conscious explorers seeking a real seaside getaway where genuine sustainability is woven throughout. The timber beams, exposed copper pipework, a feature metal spiral staircase and heavy oak joinery reflecting traditional Welsh industrial architecture.

With interiors that ooze outdoorsy fun, a spacious convivial kitchen, toasty wood burner and an upstairs dining area that embraces the ever-changing coastal vistas with its sunny balcony and floor to ceiling glass, this is a house made for great company, laughter, and fresh air adventures. With all that space, you can spread out or make memories together. With glowing cheeks.

Relaxed hosts, Sophie and Nick Hurst, know a thing or two about the benefits of getting both outside and inside, nature. In 1988 they were amongst the first to make the most of the rugged west Wales coast’s uniquely beautiful cliffs and crags, by providing low-impact activities for adrenaline fans. Sea kayaking, coasteering ( look it up, its life-affirming! ), surfing, yoga and wild swimming can all be booked here. They know the best walks, will show you where you might spot a porpoise, where the bluebells flower, and all against a sense of careful curation of this precious landscape. Many talk of responsible tourism, Sophie and Nick, live it, and have done for decades.

There are four wonderfully comfortable bedrooms ensuring a good night’s sleep, and two lovely bathrooms. Slipping into the roll-top tub, reflecting on a blustery Coast path potter, jumping the waves, combing the rockpools or flying a kite is the perfect end to a wholesome day.

Outside there is a large, fenced garden with space to run and jump, and if you need more accommodation check out the neighbouring Courtyard Cottages, pitch a tent in the glamping fields or live it up in their gorgeous geodome.

Nearby, the well-heeled village of Newport has indie shops and cosy pubs. The historic city of St Davids, the smallest city in the UK, is home to the impressive St Davids Cathedral, a site of great historical and cultural significance.

The Eco Barn is more than just a place to stay; it is an opportunity to connect with Pembrokeshire’s landscapes and culture, taking nothing but photos and leaving nothing but footprints.

A new edition for Summer 2025 is Loom Cottage, part of a small cluster of cottages gathered around an old country courtyard with views down through the trees to the coast, it’s a quietly luxurious retreat designed for ease, calm and connection to nature and is just a stone's throw away from The Eco Barn.

Inside, the open-plan living space has warm slate floors, a wood-burning stove, and floor-to-ceiling glass doors opening onto a west-facing patio – perfect for sunset and stargazing. The cottage is fully wheelchair accessible, with wide doorways, ramps, and an ensuite wet room designed for both comfort and practicality.

The modern kitchen is well equipped for slow breakfasts or cosy dinners, and an optional welcome hamper includes fresh local produce. In the bedroom, soft light, natural textures and deep quiet set the tone. At night, drift off to the sound of trees in the wind and wake to birdsong under Pembrokeshire’s Dark Skies.