All the homes you’ll find on hide & sleep have been selected by our wonderful team of experts, whose flair for design will always discover those that offer something special. From walls that could whisper the secrets of centuries gone by to contemporary home touches that will make you swoon; dig a little deeper into what makes a property perfect for hide & sleep.
Behind these wonderful properties are owners who have planned, prepped and pondered over every last detail. Owner Oracles is a series dedicated to uncovering the inspiration and ideas behind the doors of our most unique havens from conversations with the creative and ambitious home owners.
First up is the idyllic Wood Shack in the Brecon Beacons. Originally a writer’s cabin, this cosy shack is accessible yet off the beaten track giving you an easy way to escape from technology and replace your daily routine with a much simpler one. We caught up with the owners of this beautiful cabin to get their view on why Wood Shack is a magical hideout that charms every visitor.
How did you come to own Wood Shack?
We came to the area for a short break 15 years ago and never left, we love it here. Top of the list for why we love it are the mountains. We like being outside: walking, cycling, swimming in the rivers, growing veg, chopping wood – feeling the seasons.
What makes Wood Shack special?
At Wood Shack you really notice all the elements – when the sun shines you can be out all the time on the deck, and when its hammering down you are tucked up cosy by the wood burner listening to it drum down on the tin roof. It’s easy to get to the Wood Shack but it feels a million miles from anywhere – there is no phone or internet to disturb you, and you are calmed by the sound of the babbling brook and birdsong.
What would your ideal weekend at Wood Shack consist of?
My ideal weekend there would involve a trip to local shops on the way in to stock up on some delicious breakfast – then a stop at The Crown for a pint of Rhymney Best before arrival. The first thing I would do once there, is spark up the fire, turn on the fairy lights and relax on the deck. Saturday morning would be a walk from the Gaer out to Llanthony Abbey for lunch in the Crypt. Then home for a long snooze and a game of fireside Scrabble, before dinner out at any of the fantastic restaurants nearby; then home for some star gazing. Sunday might be a walk up the Sugar Loaf opposite or a day in the hammock with a good book watching the birds.
If Wood Shack was a person, what would it be like?
I think if Wood Shack was a person it might be a circus performer – not sure quite why! Possibly the décor, which is mix and match and not precious. We like things that work and are comfortable but whenever possible we reuse and recycle. Things with a bit of history are much more interesting!
If you could ensure that your guests leave feeling three things, what would they be?
When they leave Wood Shack, I would like people to feel a little closer to nature, more relaxed and kinder.
If you can’t resist the sound of this incredible hideaway, check out Wood Shack’s availability here and book your stay now. And don't forget to keep an eye out for the next property in our Owner Oracle series...
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please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.