Our most unusual places to stay in Wales

Sleeping under a vaulted handcrafted roof (with a dragon joint) deep in the Powys woods, it's never been easier to switch off from everyday life. Particularly when you step outside and take in the spectacular views of the Vyrnwy valley from the vantage point of the softly lit deck. The camp kitchen next to the cabin is designed to keep you contentedly al fresco as you whip up dinners in the pizza oven to eat in front of a glowing firebowl. When you’re not swaying in the hammock and listening to the sounds of nature, set out on walking trails from the front door or head to Snowdonia, an hour away, for more challenging hikes. Multitalented owner Mike not only built Dragon Cruck using his skills as a tree surgeon, he’s also a qualified mountain leader who can act as your guide on excursions.

It's time to dust off your crown and live like royalty (but without a sniff of paparazzi) at Oaken Fort in Powys. From a regal vantage point overlooking miles of misty valleys on the Anglo-Welsh border, your very own mini castle is fit for any King or Queen. There’s underfloor heating, sheepskin rugs, a copper bathtub, luxurious fixtures, and a hot tub out on the deck with incredible sweeping views. Go for long hikes in the surrounding hills then come back with aching limbs to prop up the outdoor bar. Venture further afield and you’ll come across historic Ludlow, the Elan Valley Dams, Offa’s Dyke path and Powis Castle. Guest Kate described Oaken Fort as “Absolutely amazing. One of the most unique builds in an incredibly beautiful & private setting.”

Hop on the magic school bus and head to Wylde Things in Monmouthshire where you can unwind in a secluded glade on owner Hilary’s farm, with a hot tub outside and an accompanying cabin with a shower and loo. Big Red is a 1987 Bluebird American school bus that Hilary renovated after its second career as a Santa’s Grotto. Now instead of sacks of toys, you’ll find a cosy wood burner, a super king-size bed, books, board games and a kitchen. In this peaceful setting among trees and farmland, there are walks in every direction and iconic peaks like Sugar Loaf and The Skirrid to conquer nearby. You can swim in the Monnow River, paddleboard at Symonds Yat and cycle in Wentwood Forest with breathtaking views over the Severn estuary. If you need supplies, head to Usk and make a thirsty diversion into the Gin Distillery while you’re there. It’d be rude not to.

Go deep undercover at The Decoy Bunker, originally built for WW2 subterfuge and now a beautiful eco cabin with a curved turf-roof where you can sit and watch the sunset. Owner Adam and his father have breathed new life and serious style into the space with a luxurious kitchen, wood burner and room to sleep four. Guest Tracey says, “we loved the uniqueness of the bunker…the peace and tranquillity of the location and proximity to interesting things to see and do.” When you’re not admiring the sweeping views towards the Bristol Channel or gazing in wonder at starry skies, there’s plenty to explore in the local area including Usk Castle, Tintern Abbey and Abergavenny Market. If you love the water, head to the river Usk for fishing and walks along the towpath or try sailing, windsurfing and SUP at Llandegfedd Visitor and Water Sports Centre.

A snug, spherical shrine to relaxation, Oak Apple Tree Tent sits on tree boughs in a woodland oasis in the Wye Valley. Inside the pod are two cushion-strewn single beds and a wood burner to keep you cosy on chilly nights. The pod is just one part of a private camp that includes a kitchen/dining cabin, a bathroom, firepit and wood-fired hot tub. The high deck is the perfect spot for morning yoga and the wide hammock invites you to spend long, lazy afternoons getting lost in a book or listening to a podcast ('A Life More Wild' is our totally unbiased recommendation). If you're interested in ecology, owners Joe and Emily can take you on a tour of their 180 acres of meadows and woodland, which is home to rugged oil beetles, rare violet coral fungi and a wealth of plants and insects. For a day out, the Wye Valley, The Forest of Dean and the Brecon Beacons are all within easy reach.

Ffynone Bach in Pembrokeshire is a small-but-perfectly-formed retreat with every inch of space put to good use, from the cosy mezzanine sleep deck to the homely kitchen and lounge area below. Huge doors open to connect the inside to the hedgerows and farmland beyond – not to mention the hot tub, firepit and spacious deck. This is dark sky country so make sure you’re in the tub with a glass of fizz after nightfall to gaze at the celestial display above. There are miles of trails to explore across the Ffynone estate, woodland to forage in and the secret waterfalls are a must-visit. Bring your swimming stuff (or don’t) for a dip in the plunge pool. Five miles down the road the Welsh Wildlife Centre and Teifi Marshes are home to kingfishers, otters and wading birds and the Glasshouse Café offers delicious home cooked, wholesome food.