Time seems to stands wonderfully still at High Meadow Yurts. In days gone by the site was a 40 acre working farm, set outside the Brecon Beacons National Park, in a valley peppered with lush ferns and ancient trees. Today, the traditional farm remains, however two delightful, wonderfully furnished abodes have been added, allowing visitors to experience this idyllic farming scene for themselves. Perfect for campers seeking a touch of luxury, couples after a cosy break and small families in need of a hassle-free holiday. But whatever the reason you visit High Meadow Yurts – one thing's for sure – you’re in for a treat.
The site's innovative owners (Anna and Hugh) have really thought outside the tent to create quality accommodation. A combination of traditional Mongolian design and British craftsmanship, Shade Oak Yurt is made from a varnished, sustainable hard wood frame and canvas cover, complete with natural wool felt insulation to keep you cosy. This is truly a yurt designed to withstand anything the British climate (and Mongolian for that matter) can throw at it. Colourfully furnished on the inside with a kingsize bed, sofa and storage space, the yurt also comes with a thoughtfully equipped kitchen and private wooden deck with barbecue, so there’s really no excuse for not cooking up some delicious local produce!
There's also plenty to do in the surrounding area. The site sits just a mile from the Brecon Beacons National Park, where there’s a wealth of hiking, mountain biking and pony trekking opportunities. Once the sun has set, the National Park transforms into one of only five International Dark Sky Reserves, meaning stargazing here is incredible. The majestic Wye Valley is also a short drive away for canoeing and kayaking near Hay-on-Wye or Symonds Yat. Jewel in its crown, the charming town of Hay sits just inside the Welsh border, and has become the undisputed second hand book capital of the world. In 1988, the town’s fabulous literary festival (taking place over 10 days in May–June) was established to celebrate all aspects of the creative arts, and was notably endorsed by former US president Bill Clinton as “The Woodstock of the mind”. The tiny town centre is dotted with fascinating shops and characterful, narrow cobblestone lanes, which inspire the creation of copycat book towns across the globe.
Back at High Meadow Yurts, there's an abundance of wildlife to spot. Owls, buzzards, woodpeckers, bats, rabbits, foxes and badgers are always inresidence, with plenty of opportunities to see them up close. Anna and Hugh can show you the best places to wait and watch the large family of badgers, going about their evening routines! Or, if all that nature proves too much excitement, you can always recline on your deck with a delicious glass of wine, and wait for the stars to come out and illuminate the sky above. In other words, High Meadow Yurts is where you can leave behind the stresses and strains of everyday life, chill out, and get re-acquainted with life's simple pleasures.The Brecon Beacons National Park is eminently reachable for the site and boast a wealth of spectacular walks and outdoor adventures. In the northwest corner of Monmouthshire lies Abergavenny (14 miles), a small town usually known for its outstanding outdoor activities (walks, cycling & paragliding), but it's now become the capital of a prospering food scene. Try to time your visit with The Abergavenny Food Festival (01873 851643), a not-for-profit organisation, celebrating the craft of food making every September. Or pop to the town's covered market hall which operates 4 days a week. In the immediate vicinity there are some fascinating churches waiting to be discovered, including Dore Abbey (01981 240 079), St Margaret’s Church (01432 830802) and Kilpeck Church (01981 570315.) Llanthony Priory (01873 890487) and the Vale of Ewyas are located on the other side (west) of Hatterall Ridge, which is visible from the top of the farm. This valley is a gorgeous ‘hidden gem’ and very atmospheric, with a ruined priory whose soaring arches are still intact. There is a pub in the crypt which serves good honest home cooked food. Hereford Cathedral (01432 374200) boasts one of the most remarkable sights in Britain, the medieval Mappa Mundi, a single piece of calfskin painted with some rather far-fetched presumptions about the globe, back in 1290. Largely known for its cider, cattle and connections with the English composer Elgar, Hereford has a relatively rural feel but an increasingly young vibe buzzes along its riverside.
The yurt is self-catering and with all the basics provided, including tea, coffee, sugar, milk, salt and pepper, oil and vinegar to get guests started. The award-winning Hopes of Longtown (01873 860444) is the site's nearest shop, selling locally sourced produce, newspapers, books, local books, maps, guides, gifts and postcards. The Bridge Inn at Michaelchurch (01981 510646) is without doubt one of the best places to eat in the area. It’s an easy 15 minute stroll across the fields (usually longer coming back uphill!) and the pub is an excellent place for meal and a drink by the river under the weeping willows. White Haywood Farm Restaurant (01981 510324) is about 2.5 miles away by car. They serve good farmhouse cooking, using their own home grown meat. On Thursday evenings you can have traditional fish & chips and their own homemade pies and sausages. You can eat in (out of the paper) in the beautifully converted barn or take away. Another good choice is The Crown Inn (01873 860217), with particularly tasty Sunday roasts, or if you really want to push the boat out, head to The Walnut Tree Inn (01873 852797) at Llandewi Skirrid.