Fancy Sleeping In A Flying Saucer? Head To Wales

Wacky yet wonderful

Coastal retreats, cosy cabins and forest hideaways, Wales has a decent range of unique and quirky accommodation to suit all travel styles and budgets. You can sleep in a converted jet, a library, floating cabins and even a UFO. Here's our pick of the best unusual accommodation in Wales, from cliffside camping to digital detox glamping.

By the Wye treetop glamping, Hay-on-Wye

In four acres of ancient native woodland, you’ll find a tree-top glamping hideaway that’s in the ideal location for reconnecting with nature. Life moves slowly here with an abundance of wildlife to spot and swimming opportunities in the river – if you can brave an icy dip. You can switch off literally and figuratively as there’s no Wi-Fi out here in the woods. Each safari tent is elevated on stilts to reach up into the leafy tree canopy, overlooking the river.  

Floatel Cabins, Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire

Enjoy luxury glamping in a floating hotel room for two at the dog-friendly Floatel Cabins on Milford Haven marina. Each cabin is positioned right on the water and offers splendid views across the water. Inside each stylish abode, you’ll find an en suite shower room, luxurious furnishings, a private balcony and floor-to-ceiling windows for enjoying those waterfront sunsets. Thanks to a multimillion-pound redevelopment programme, Milford Waterfront and Marina has a superb range of independent shops, cafés and restaurants located right by the cabins. 

Moon Conker, Cambrian Mountains

The Moon Conker is a world-first aerodynamically-designed glamping pod that's ideally situated for stargazing on the Cambrian Mountains Astro Trail. This remote glamping 'conker' features a super-king bed inside that transforms into a modular sitting room during the day with solar lighting for reading, and an indoor log burner to keep you cosy on those colder nights. The most indulgent feature of the Moon Conker is the Moon Bathing area. Unwind in hot and cold Scandi-style baths and have an outdoor wilderness bathing experience you won’t forget.

The Nest, Powys

Middle earth awaits at this quirky, Tolkien-esque retreat in Powys. The curved grass roof blends seamlessly with the surrounding countryside giving a ‘hobbit house feel’ when viewed from afar. Inside is spacious and bright with huge expanses of glass that allow natural light to flood the open plan living space. Enjoy a spot of outdoor bathing in scenic surroundings with two baths, side by side on a private decking area for luxuriating in nature. Down the steps is a private patio area for dining and a hot tub for late-night soaking and stargazing. 

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Caban Eric, Flintshire

This snug wooden cabin for two has a private swimming lake and is accessed via a fairy light adorned woodland path. It’s a remote escape in the shadow of the Clwydian Hills, surrounded by birdsong and soothing streams. Relax inside rustic interiors with a log burning stove, cosy seating area and beautiful spalted beech kitchen. Have an alfresco dinner in the outdoor cooking and seating area and brave a cold-water plunge in the nearby natural splash pools fed by a local stream.

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Gladstone's Library, Flintshire

Drift off to sleep surrounded by thousands of stories in a residential library in Flintshire. With a collection of 250,000 books and journals, you won't be short of bedtime reading material. It's the UK's only residential library where you can browse books after closing time and read them in a peaceful, boutique-style bedroom with subtle literary decor. You won’t find any TVs in bedrooms, or loud music here as the library is keen to "preserve the ethos of study and reflection" at this unique accommodation. 

Llanthony Court Castaway, Brecon Beacons

Indulge in a digital detox in a remote corner of the Brecon Beacons in your very own converted rail carriage for two. Far from city life, the Llanthony Court Castaway site is home to undulating countryside views, wildlife spotting and wild swimming for the bold. Inside, a rustic living area and king-size bed are in one carriage, along with a wood-burning stove and plenty of playing cards, board games and books to keep you entertained. In the adjoining carriage is a spacious shower room, towels and fragranced soaps and shampoos, handcrafted in the Welsh countryside. 

Huacayas Cush, Radnorshire

An adults-only escape in the picturesque Radnorshire hills, surrounded by rolling countryside and the resident alpacas who roam freely. This wooden pod sleeps two-four and has a glass-covered roof for big starry sky views. There’s also a fully-equipped kitchen for self-catering and alfresco dinners and a chic monsoon shower. Unwind on the private decking area with outdoor seating and make the most of those rural Welsh views. Nearby are plenty of hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts located at the Elan Valley, Brecon Beacons and Radnor Forest.

 

The Duchess, Llangollen

Enjoy the best of Llangollen and its charming canals on ‘The Duchess’, a 58-foot (18m) narrowboat fully decked out for a holiday on the water. Curl up in the spacious saloon, with a dining table and chairs and a compact galley kitchen. Towards the rear, two cabins sleep up to four and there's a full-size shower, basin and electric toilet. Along the route, holidaymakers will cross the UNESCO World Heritage Status Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, towering 126 feet (38m) above the Dee Valley. On reaching Llangollen, boaters can enjoy the town’s independent shops, pubs and restaurants and nearby Horseshoe Falls. 

Y Beudy, Elan Valley

Star hunters can find optimum dark sky accommodation in this rural setting in the Elan Valley. Y Beudy, a rustic Grade II*-listed longhouse, dates right back to the 16th century and is perfect not only if you're into stargazing, but also for having a quiet holiday in Wales. The property was restored in 1999 and has retained many of the traditional and historic features. It's a simply furnished property with no Wi-Fi or phone signal, so it's an ideal place to disconnect while sitting by a roaring fire.

Wanderoo, Brecon Beacons

Parked at the top of a steep hill in the Brecon Beacons, the Wanderoo truck is in a perfect position for views of Pen-y-Fan and the Black Mountains. This converted horsebox has sheep’s wool insulation and a wood burner to keep you warm on the coldest of nights. Two sets of floor-to-ceiling glass doors allow light to flood into the cosy space and both open out onto expansive balconies. Outside, you’ll find a bubbly hot tub and access to miles of trails and hiking routes in the national park. 

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The Little Retreat, Pembrokeshire

South Pembrokeshire is home to the idyllic Little Retreat glamping resort. In a secluded spot next to the Cleddau Estuary surrounded by acres of ancient woodland and elusive waterways, the retreat has a collection of luxury eco glamping domes and stargazer domes. The glamping domes have either private wood-fired hot tubs or outdoor bathtubs, outdoor kitchens and firepits. There is also a range of bookable experiences including wild swimming, art lessons, paddle boarding, kayaking, stargazing, mindfulness walks and foraging. 

Chapel Tabernacle, Llechryd

This dog-friendly converted chapel sleeps six and is located in the small village of Llechryd, with a pub, restaurant and shop all within walking distance. Heritage features such as Juliet balconies, original church organ and woodwork blend perfectly with modern amenities and contemporary furnishings. Enter through two imposing chapel doors and walk through to the expansive lounge area with stained glass windows, wood burner and smart sofas. Outside is a patio area with garden furniture and a charcoal BBQ for alfresco dining. 

Cliff camping, Anglesey

For a wish-list camping adventure in Wales, head to Anglesey to sleep on a rocky cliff face. Camping on the side of a cliff probably isn't for everyone, but for those who enjoy rock climbing and camping with a sea view, it doesn't get much better. Climbing Academy offers this incredible camp experience where portable ledges, large enough for two, are suspended on cliffs. You'll learn how to rock climb before being served a meal on your ledge with sunset views. Wake up at sunrise to strong coffee and bacon baps. 

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Isla Windmill, Beaumaris

High on a hill overlooking the Anglesey coast, Isla Windmill is a unique place to stay, boasting panoramic views over the Menai Strait and rugged peaks of Snowdonia National Park. After many years of neglect, it's been lovingly restored from a flour-covered mill to a luxurious homestay. Inside, there’s a blend of Art Deco and 1970s influences to create contemporary living space with a retro twist. Enjoy the superb views from the 240 degrees of floor-to-ceiling windows and sink into the lounge's curved velvet sofa with your favourite tipple. 

St Curig's Church, Snowdonia

Up to 16 guests can stay in this converted 19th-century church in Capel Curig. It’s the ideal stay for large groups looking to explore the Snowdonia National Park as there are world-class walks just moments from the church. It has retained many of its original features including stained-glass windows, vaulted ceiling and stone pulpit. While room furnishings are traditional, with one room having a large hand-carved oak four-poster bed, guests will also find modern touches throughout, including the property's hot tub overlooking Snowdon's horseshoe. 

West Blockhouse Fort, Dale, Pembrokeshire

Have a strategic stay by the sea in your very own Grade II*-listed fort in the village of Dale. The imposing West Blockhouse stands alone on the dramatic Pembrokeshire coast, perched on the edge of a rocky cliff overlooking the roaring Atlantic Ocean. Built in 1854-1857, a battery of six heavy guns once commanded the entrance to the harbour, thankfully guests are now welcome and offered a safe haven at this unique coastal fort that sleeps up to eight.

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Wigwam Holidays Hafren, Staylittle

Stay in one of six luxurious en suite Wigwam Cabins on a picturesque working farm in Staylittle and wake up to the soothing baaing of sheep. Each wooden glamping pod sleeps up to four adults and has been kitted out with all your glamping needs including an alfresco dining area and barbecue, en suite shower room, kitchenette, heating, TV and Wi-Fi. Two of the pods also feature luxurious, wood-fired hot tubs for unwinding with countryside views. 

Big Daf, Usk

Establish base camp in an original DAF army truck that's been cleverly restored into a unique stay in South Wales. Climb up the wooden steps and jump right into the open plan area with camping, comfortable sofas and a table in the centre where you can unwind after a busy day exploring The Wye Valley. Take a commanding seat in the front of the truck and survey your countryside surroundings in the morning with a strong coffee. Outside, there’s a covered private terrace where you’ll find a barbecue, bike storage and wood-fired hot tub. 

Nantseren, Carmarthenshire

Connect with the great outdoors on a glamping escape in Carmarthenshire. The rustic Nantseren site, sleeps up to 16 and consists of a large barn, wild spa area and four individual bell tents: Cadno, Pili Pila, Gwdihw and Draenog. Each bell tent comes with a stove, wood burner and firepit, there's also a private shower room and toilet for each tent. Unwind under big starry skies, soak in the private hot tub, gather around the fire for camp stories and legends, or check out hiking trails in the nearby Brecon Beacons National Park. 

Dolly the Circus Wagon, Cardigan Bay

Amid secluded, rolling meadows sits Dolly, a self-contained former circus wagon. Built in 1947, Dolly has been expertly restored and renovated to provide a snug stay for two with flashes of charming circus-style, including painted mirrors and theatrical drapes. The wagon is surprisingly spacious inside with colourful vintage seating, upscale furnishings and a creamy light oak-walled parlour equipped with a writing desk where you can note down your glamping adventures. An adjacent shepherd's hut houses a modern bathroom and there are also barbecue facilities for outdoor cooking. 

The Piglet Pod, Ceredigion

As stylish as it is functional, The Piglet Pod firmly places the glam into glamping adventures. Located on a working farm next to a pond, this bespoke pod has a luxurious feel and all the comforts of home. Inside is a king-size bed for two with a smart TV for late-night movies and a compact kitchen for midnight snacks. Coffee aficionados will love waking up to a proper coffee from their upscale pod machine, best enjoyed on the decking outside, admiring the views and the resident alpacas.  

Nyth y Barcud Treehouse, Powys

You’ll find this secluded treehouse in the wild and forested corner of Beudy Banc, about 650 feet (200m) from the nearest of the farm’s scattering of cabins. Drift off to sleep in a cosy double bed, up in the peaceful canopy. For the kids, there’s a sofa bed in the main living area and plenty of unspoilt forest views, leafy trails and nature to keep them entertained. Nearby, you’ll find world-class biking, long-distance hiking on Glyndŵr's Way and plenty of proper pubs, independent cafés and restaurants serving local produce. 

Dragon's Eye, Aberaeron

Dragon's Eye (Llygad y Ddraig in Welsh) is a handcrafted glamping pod for two located on the rugged Ceredigion coastline. It’s been expertly designed and built from rustic materials, including Douglas fir, sheep wool and reclaimed slate, to resemble a dragon's eye. Winner of Channel 4's Cabins in the Wild TV series, this quirky pod has several unique features including a round, rotating bed that provides lakeside views from every direction. It’s also fully equipped with all your glamping essentials including an en suite shower room, wood burner and camping stove. 

Stellar Safari Lodge, Elan Valley

Enjoy a luxurious glamping experience at Stellar Safari Lodge, located near the picturesque Elan Valley Estate. Set on a 300-acre working farm, this wood-framed, canvas accommodation has all the glamping comforts including a wood-burning stove, plush furnishing and contemporary decor. The expansive safari tent sleeps six and amenities include an en suite shower room, fully-equipped kitchen, firepit, pizza oven and private wood-fired hot tub. It's a rural escape that offers guests the chance to disconnect and unwind in countryside surroundings, as there’s no Wi-Fi or TV here.

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Llechwedd Glamping, Blaenau Ffestiniog

Stay right in the centre of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and surround yourself with Welsh mining heritage at Llechwedd Glamping. Relax in a wooden glamping lodge overlooking the slate landscapes of Blaenau Ffestiniog and listen to shrieking zip-liners whizz past on Zip World's Titan 2 zip line in the distance. These upscale lodges have all you need for a comfortable stay in Blaenau, including snug beds, en suite bathroom, wood-burning stoves and a spacious veranda to unwind on and admire the unique views. 

Beudy Bach, Llanwnnen

Near the tiny village of Llanwnnen is the rural smallholding, Canvas and Campfires, home to luxury safari tents and an expertly refurbished 18th-century cowshed called Beudy Bach. The cowshed is an ideal rustic break for two with a double room, warming fire, snug area and fully-equipped kitchen. Bed linen, towels and firewood are also included in your stay. Be sure to take full advantage of your private, wood-fired hot tub and watch the sunset over the rolling Welsh landscape.

The JetStar, Pembrokeshire

Sleep in the stylish surroundings of a converted private jet containing many original features, including a fully functional cockpit with an Xbox 360 loaded with flight games. Built in the 1970s, it has retained many of its classic private jet features, including leather seats with dropdown tables, a sofa and a swanky bar area for an inflight tipple. Slap on a captain’s hat and get ready for your ‘jet-set life’ selfies. Inside, you'll also find a first-class style double bedroom for a sound night’s sleep. A shower block, toilet and a cold-water basin are also available. 

Flying Saucer, Pembrokeshire

Apple Camping in Pembrokeshire is the only place in the UK where you can stay in a custom-made flying saucer located in its own crater. Aboard the lunar vessel, there’s an escape hatch, smoke machine and nighttime laser display to keep the whole family entertained in this extra-terrestrial themed accommodation. Inside, the quirky UFO has a double bed and two singles for the kids, a stargazing dome, retracting stairs and door, a circular dining table and eight windows for a 360-degree view of the rolling countryside. 

Boatel, Machynlleth

Stay in a bespoke bed in a boat that’s curiously comprised of an upcycled shed – with a second boat used as a roof. It’s an off-grid farm stay located in an acre of wildflowers in the Dyfi Valley Biosphere with impressive views of Cader Idris. Hand-built by owners Sarah and Alex, the Boatel blends unique and cosy with candles, a wood burner and a 1950s style field kitchen housed in an old livestock trailer, with fresh water supplied from a local spring.

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