Marcus went to Chelsea Arts College in the 1960s and trained under David Hockney and Bridget Riley, but the art world wasn’t his only calling. After a brief spell in Sussex, he shifted his focus to raising a family and running a farm in Llangadog with the unfailing support of his wife Daniella. With an artist's attention to aesthetics, you’ll soon notice that he has put just as much care and attention into his shepherd’s hut, gypsy van, cabin, and bluebell wagon as he has the entire farm. If you stay in Bluebell Hut in early May you may be lucky enough to be surrounded by the bluebells in bloom.
If it’s privacy you’re after, then any of the cosy abodes offers it in droves, as well as a view destined to calmly fix in your mind forever. It really is the place to lose the stresses and strains of our busy lives and unwind into some unadulterated relaxation. Once you snap out of your scenic trance and park up outside chosen abode, step inside and prepare to marvel at how dainty and cosy it is - perfect for a romantic break. Beautifully furnished, every inch of the huts exudes the love that has been put into them, from the mini kitchenette with butler sink to the traditional wood-burning stove. Equipped with everything that the camper’s heart could desire as well as the indulgence of your own private bathroom next to your hut complete with flushing lavatory, hot shower and additional basin.
The only things you’ll need to concern yourself with is when to light the BBQ and what time to climb into the wood-fired hot tub, which sit adjacent to each of the four huts. Yes, your own private hot tub, with an impressive sea of stunning farmland for a view, and the jealous stars as an audience.
As certain as the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, you will be booking your next stay at this secluded rural retreat before you even start packing up to go home.
You’re actively encouraged to get lost in the 450 acres of Mandinam with plenty of walking, birdwatching, fishing, owl and bat-spotting opportunities. However, if you venture 12 miles further you’ll find the National Botanic Garden of Wales (01558 668768) and a selection of Welsh castles, including Carreg Cennen.
For decent pub grub, The Goose & Cuckoo (01550 777359) ticks all the right boxes and is only a short walk into Llangadog village. For some real Carmarthenshire finesse, book a table at Y Polyn (01267 290000) in Capel Dewi, one of Wales’ leading restaurants. You can also buy estate-raised burgers and sausages at Mandinam, but you’ll need to ask in advance.