Holly Cabin
Herefordshire, United Kingdom
Cynefin Retreats
- Our low price promise from £188 €214 p/n
-
Cabin
Sleeps 2 /
Extra space for 1 child
- One king-size bed
Suitable for children aged up to 10
Pets welcome
Overview
Live within the landscape between rolling green meadows and dense woodland of willow and fruit trees to plunder for breakfast when in season. In your handcrafted cabin with extras, there’s plenty to keep you busy – board games and books, a plush kitchen for playing house together and a firepit for prime marshmallow toasting. Each pod has been angled for the floor-to-ceiling views (and privacy) so you can sit out on deck and watch the Herefordshire countryside at play. At night dim the lights and tumble into the floating king-size bed to doze to the sound of hooting owls, waking to birdsong and the soft light of sunrise.
Babes in arms are welcome but this is a quiet, grown up place – think remote romance. Everything has been designed to soothe and indulge, from the toasty floors underfoot to the rainfall shower and snuggly towels in the sleek en suite bathroom. It’s not just a pretty face either: each cabin at Cynefin has been built with sustainably sourced wood and the land is managed responsibly.
Pack light – everything you’ll need is here. There’s plenty to choose from locally and a farm shop and café across the river Wye for stocking the cupboards. You’re three miles from Hay-on-Wye: come for the literary festival, stay for the second-hand book stores, farmer’s market and castle. Or head into cider-capital Hereford, stroll or canoe along the Wye, tramp along the ancient Offa’s Dyke, drive west into Wales and spend a day hiking in the Brecon Beacons. Tucked down a private lane just off the highway you’re far enough away from civilisation to enjoy the stars strewn across the ebony sky from the terrace. Help is on hand should you need it, otherwise you can come and go as you please.
Read more
Essentials
The important stuff
- Check in: from 4:30pm
- Check out: by 10:30am
- Early check in/Late check out: This is sometimes possible, but is dependent on the schedule of cleaner. Please let the owner know and they'll do their best to arrange. Early check in would be 2:30pm and late check out would be midday - the cost is £15 each
- Please be aware that even though you have your private area, the cabins are close to one another and you will see/hear other guests whilst on site
- Mobile phone signal available
- WiFi
- First batch of firewood for the indoor wood-burner will be provided. There are additional log bundles (£4) and kindling bundles (£2) available in the honesty shop where you can help yourself to them and leave the payment. You can also if you like forage for dry dead wood in the surrounding area which is free of charge.
- Private soft hot tub is included in the cost of your stay.
- All four pods at Cynefin Retreats are designed and equipped in the same way, have the same level of privacy, and offer field views. Occasionally, to ensure the smooth running of the site and maximise occupancy, Cynefin reserve the right to amend your stay to an alternative pod if required. You will be notified of any accommodation changes at least 24 hours before your arrival.
- EV charging point facilities (please contact owners after booking for information on values, if any)
Sleeping arrangements
- One king-size bed
Extra space available
Space for 1 child from £20 per child per night sleeping on the sofa and single bedding provided
Space for 1 baby no charge. Travel cot and high chair provided on request
Space for 1 pet from £30 per pet per stay
Kids & Pets
The hosts provide a dog towel, sofa throw, water and food bowl and warm running water for cleaning muddy paws. Please do not leave dogs unattended at any time. There is a metal stake outside the property which your dog can be attached to, allowing them to roam a little further. Please keep your dog out of the bedrooms and off the sofas without a blanket. A £50 charge will be incurred if the dog if any damage or excess cleaning is required as a result of your dog.
Cooking
- Electric oven and induction hob
- Outdoor firepit with grill (outdoor pans and cooking utensils provided)
- Kettle & toaster
- Fridge with small freezer compartment
- Fully equipped kitchen, including dishwasher
Washing
- Rain shower
- Flushing toilet
- Bathroom toiletries provided
Heating, lighting & bedding
- Bed linen and towels provided
- Underfloor heating
- Wood-burner
- LED mood lighting
- Plug sockets throughout cabin
Entertainment
- Private hot tub (soft tub) on deck, futa towels provided
- Cards
- Board games
- Books
- Bose bluetooth sound system
Read more
Getting there
Cynefin Retreats , Sheepcote, Clifford, Hereford, HR3 5HU
Cynefin Retreats runs a self check-in so you do not need to contact the owners in advance with an arrival time. Full check in details will be provided by the owners in advance of your stay.
By car
IF ARRIVING ON THE A438 VIA WHITNEY-ON-WYE:
After passing through Whitney-on-Wye, you will pass Whitney Saw Mill on your right. You need to take the next left, with the sign showing the B4350 to Hay via Toll Bridge. Cross the bridge (the daily charge is £1), and Cynefin Retreats is the first turning on the left (about half a mile after crossing the bridge) next to two small red brick buildings. At this turning you will see the sign for Cynefin Retreats, and a carved stone saying Sheepcote, which is the neighbouring farm.
IF ARRIVING VIA HAY-ON-WYE:
Drive on the B4350 which takes you through Clifford village (keep left). We are about a mile after you leave the village, located on the right hand side of the road, next to two small red brick buildings. At this turning you will see the sign for Cynefin Retreats, and a carved stone saying Sheepcote, which is the neighbouring farm.
PARKING
After turning off the road, follow the track and at the junction turn right. Drive past our three luxe-lodges on the left (please do not park here!) and follow the track to the end. Here you will find the parking for our luxe-pod guests. Please be mindful of parking in a way that makes it easy for others to park and turn their cars too.
Parking is 20 metres from the first cabin.
By public transport
The nearest train station is in Hereford, 19 miles away
The nearest bus stop is 3 miles away in Hay-On-Wye
Read more
Food & Drink
At Cynefin Retreats
Starter pack of tea selection, ground coffee, sugar, milk and cold pressed olive oil
Extras can be pre-arranged: Local sparkling wine - £22, Flowers - £25, order and pay direct to owner.
Local shops
Farm shop with café across the river (25 min walk).
Pubs & restaurants
Chapters (3 miles) - Seasonal menus with focus on ethical sourcing, sustainability and minimal waste. Vegetarian and vegan friendly. Open Wed-Sat.
The Globe (3 miles) - Using locally sourced ingredients from local suppliers to offer delicious food such as curries, Thai and burgers.
Booth's Bookshop Cafe (3 miles) - Good for lunch and located in the largest bookshop in Hay.
Tomatitoes (3 miles) - Tapas bar with a relaxed and friendly vibe.
Read more
Activities
At Cynefin Retreats
Due to the 'dark sky' status it creates the perfect spot for stargazing!
Woodland walk to the 'secret willow garden', why not take a picnic with you?
There's a public footpath bordering Cynefin Retreats, which leads up to the hills and down to the river. The path connects into the Wye Valley Walk and Offa’s Dyke close by.
Places to visit
Head over to Richard Booths Bookshop, 'the world's largest second-hand bookshop.'
Visit Hay Castle, one of the great medieval defence structures on the border of England and Wales still standing.
Half an hour down the road is Hereford where you can visit the 13th century Mappa Mundi - the largest medieval map of the world in existence.
Explore The Cider Museum and walk around the cellars of this former cider making factory.
Discover the dramatic landscapes of the Black Mountains.
Outdoor & active
Canoe down the Wye, with opportunities to stop for a drink or a meal in pubs along the way.
Invigorate with wild swimming in the Wye.
Explore the excellent road and mountain biking routes.
Wild swimming and picnic at ‘The Warren’, Hay’s stony beach on the edge of the Wye.
Ride into the Brecon Beacons on horseback.
Read more
Meet your hosts
Meet Lorna and Steve
Bringing Cynefin Retreats to fruition has been 6 years in the making, starting in 2012 when father and daughter team Steve and Lorna first visited the plot of land, consisting then of an almost impenetrable woodland and some decrepit low grade utility barns. Yet even in its overgrown and unloved condition, Lorna could feel the magic of place. They then started to dream of creating a luxury getaway where people could leave their busy lives behind, and find year-round inspiration and rejuvenation in a short break and holiday stay located in the Wye Valley.
The family's inspiration for Cynefin is the wonder and joy of British landscapes – the mountains, hills, meadows, rivers and streams – and their aspiration to make this stunning Welsh-English border landscape accessible and enjoyable, year-round, whatever the weather. Like others, the pair have often headed to warmer climes where living in the outdoors is more-or-less guaranteed by a stable climate. They dreamt of creating a natural, uncontrived holiday destination in the UK, for people to escape to where it remains possible to enjoy nature and an outdoor lifestyle all year round. Lorna and Steve were so excited when this perfect setting of five acres became available and they began turning their dream to reality.
Lorna and Steve's aspiration is to be an exemplar for eco-tourism, founded on a low carbon footprint in aesthetically beautiful contemporary accommodations, providing year-round employment to local people and service providers. They invite you to celebrate the magic of the British climate, famous for its diversity and changeability, from the luxury of their state-of-the-art accommodations, purpose designed for living in the local landscape, across the seasons.
Wildlife & environment
Cynefin is are located on the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park, one of only five locations worldwide with a ‘dark sky’ status due to its low light and air pollution. The lodges therefore make for an excellent spot for star-gazing. There is a ‘secret willow garden’ at the end of the woodland, with woven and shaped willow boughs, the perfect quiet spot for a picnic, or reading a book. As you walk through the woodland, you will see habitat piles providing a home for local wildlife, hedgehogs, along with a plethora of bird, bat and owl boxes. There's also a public footpath bordering Cynefin Retreats, which leads up to the hills and down to the river. The path connects into the Wye Valley Walk and Offa’s Dyke is also close by.
Read more
-
Overview
Live within the landscape between rolling green meadows and dense woodland of willow and fruit trees to plunder for breakfast when in season. In your handcrafted cabin with extras, there’s plenty to keep you busy – board games and books, a plush kitchen for playing house together and a firepit for prime marshmallow toasting. Each pod has been angled for the floor-to-ceiling views (and privacy) so you can sit out on deck and watch the Herefordshire countryside at play. At night dim the lights and tumble into the floating king-size bed to doze to the sound of hooting owls, waking to birdsong and the soft light of sunrise.
Babes in arms are welcome but this is a quiet, grown up place – think remote romance. Everything has been designed to soothe and indulge, from the toasty floors underfoot to the rainfall shower and snuggly towels in the sleek en suite bathroom. It’s not just a pretty face either: each cabin at Cynefin has been built with sustainably sourced wood and the land is managed responsibly.
Pack light – everything you’ll need is here. There’s plenty to choose from locally and a farm shop and café across the river Wye for stocking the cupboards. You’re three miles from Hay-on-Wye: come for the literary festival, stay for the second-hand book stores, farmer’s market and castle. Or head into cider-capital Hereford, stroll or canoe along the Wye, tramp along the ancient Offa’s Dyke, drive west into Wales and spend a day hiking in the Brecon Beacons. Tucked down a private lane just off the highway you’re far enough away from civilisation to enjoy the stars strewn across the ebony sky from the terrace. Help is on hand should you need it, otherwise you can come and go as you please.
Read more
-
Essentials
The important stuff
- Check in: from 4:30pm
- Check out: by 10:30am
- Early check in/Late check out: This is sometimes possible, but is dependent on the schedule of cleaner. Please let the owner know and they'll do their best to arrange. Early check in would be 2:30pm and late check out would be midday - the cost is £15 each
- Please be aware that even though you have your private area, the cabins are close to one another and you will see/hear other guests whilst on site
- Mobile phone signal available
- WiFi
- First batch of firewood for the indoor wood-burner will be provided. There are additional log bundles (£4) and kindling bundles (£2) available in the honesty shop where you can help yourself to them and leave the payment. You can also if you like forage for dry dead wood in the surrounding area which is free of charge.
- Private soft hot tub is included in the cost of your stay.
- All four pods at Cynefin Retreats are designed and equipped in the same way, have the same level of privacy, and offer field views. Occasionally, to ensure the smooth running of the site and maximise occupancy, Cynefin reserve the right to amend your stay to an alternative pod if required. You will be notified of any accommodation changes at least 24 hours before your arrival.
- EV charging point facilities (please contact owners after booking for information on values, if any)
Sleeping arrangements
- One king-size bed
Extra space available
Space for 1 child from £20 per child per night sleeping on the sofa and single bedding provided
Space for 1 baby no charge. Travel cot and high chair provided on request
Space for 1 pet from £30 per pet per stay
Kids & Pets
The hosts provide a dog towel, sofa throw, water and food bowl and warm running water for cleaning muddy paws. Please do not leave dogs unattended at any time. There is a metal stake outside the property which your dog can be attached to, allowing them to roam a little further. Please keep your dog out of the bedrooms and off the sofas without a blanket. A £50 charge will be incurred if the dog if any damage or excess cleaning is required as a result of your dog.
Cooking
- Electric oven and induction hob
- Outdoor firepit with grill (outdoor pans and cooking utensils provided)
- Kettle & toaster
- Fridge with small freezer compartment
- Fully equipped kitchen, including dishwasher
Washing
- Rain shower
- Flushing toilet
- Bathroom toiletries provided
Heating, lighting & bedding
- Bed linen and towels provided
- Underfloor heating
- Wood-burner
- LED mood lighting
- Plug sockets throughout cabin
Entertainment
- Private hot tub (soft tub) on deck, futa towels provided
- Cards
- Board games
- Books
- Bose bluetooth sound system
-
Location
Getting there
Cynefin Retreats , Sheepcote, Clifford, Hereford, HR3 5HU
Cynefin Retreats runs a self check-in so you do not need to contact the owners in advance with an arrival time. Full check in details will be provided by the owners in advance of your stay.
By car
IF ARRIVING ON THE A438 VIA WHITNEY-ON-WYE:
After passing through Whitney-on-Wye, you will pass Whitney Saw Mill on your right. You need to take the next left, with the sign showing the B4350 to Hay via Toll Bridge. Cross the bridge (the daily charge is £1), and Cynefin Retreats is the first turning on the left (about half a mile after crossing the bridge) next to two small red brick buildings. At this turning you will see the sign for Cynefin Retreats, and a carved stone saying Sheepcote, which is the neighbouring farm.
IF ARRIVING VIA HAY-ON-WYE:
Drive on the B4350 which takes you through Clifford village (keep left). We are about a mile after you leave the village, located on the right hand side of the road, next to two small red brick buildings. At this turning you will see the sign for Cynefin Retreats, and a carved stone saying Sheepcote, which is the neighbouring farm.
PARKING
After turning off the road, follow the track and at the junction turn right. Drive past our three luxe-lodges on the left (please do not park here!) and follow the track to the end. Here you will find the parking for our luxe-pod guests. Please be mindful of parking in a way that makes it easy for others to park and turn their cars too.
Parking is 20 metres from the first cabin.
By public transport
The nearest train station is in Hereford, 19 miles away
The nearest bus stop is 3 miles away in Hay-On-Wye
-
Food & Drink
At Cynefin Retreats
Starter pack of tea selection, ground coffee, sugar, milk and cold pressed olive oil
Extras can be pre-arranged: Local sparkling wine - £22, Flowers - £25, order and pay direct to owner.
Local shops
Farm shop with café across the river (25 min walk).
Pubs & restaurants
Chapters (3 miles) - Seasonal menus with focus on ethical sourcing, sustainability and minimal waste. Vegetarian and vegan friendly. Open Wed-Sat.
The Globe (3 miles) - Using locally sourced ingredients from local suppliers to offer delicious food such as curries, Thai and burgers.
Booth's Bookshop Cafe (3 miles) - Good for lunch and located in the largest bookshop in Hay.
Tomatitoes (3 miles) - Tapas bar with a relaxed and friendly vibe.
-
Experiences
At Cynefin Retreats
Due to the 'dark sky' status it creates the perfect spot for stargazing!
Woodland walk to the 'secret willow garden', why not take a picnic with you?
There's a public footpath bordering Cynefin Retreats, which leads up to the hills and down to the river. The path connects into the Wye Valley Walk and Offa’s Dyke close by.
Places to visit
Head over to Richard Booths Bookshop, 'the world's largest second-hand bookshop.'
Visit Hay Castle, one of the great medieval defence structures on the border of England and Wales still standing.
Half an hour down the road is Hereford where you can visit the 13th century Mappa Mundi - the largest medieval map of the world in existence.
Explore The Cider Museum and walk around the cellars of this former cider making factory.
Discover the dramatic landscapes of the Black Mountains.
Outdoor & active
Canoe down the Wye, with opportunities to stop for a drink or a meal in pubs along the way.
Invigorate with wild swimming in the Wye.
Explore the excellent road and mountain biking routes.
Wild swimming and picnic at ‘The Warren’, Hay’s stony beach on the edge of the Wye.
Ride into the Brecon Beacons on horseback.
-
Your Hosts
Meet Lorna and Steve
Bringing Cynefin Retreats to fruition has been 6 years in the making, starting in 2012 when father and daughter team Steve and Lorna first visited the plot of land, consisting then of an almost impenetrable woodland and some decrepit low grade utility barns. Yet even in its overgrown and unloved condition, Lorna could feel the magic of place. They then started to dream of creating a luxury getaway where people could leave their busy lives behind, and find year-round inspiration and rejuvenation in a short break and holiday stay located in the Wye Valley.
The family's inspiration for Cynefin is the wonder and joy of British landscapes – the mountains, hills, meadows, rivers and streams – and their aspiration to make this stunning Welsh-English border landscape accessible and enjoyable, year-round, whatever the weather. Like others, the pair have often headed to warmer climes where living in the outdoors is more-or-less guaranteed by a stable climate. They dreamt of creating a natural, uncontrived holiday destination in the UK, for people to escape to where it remains possible to enjoy nature and an outdoor lifestyle all year round. Lorna and Steve were so excited when this perfect setting of five acres became available and they began turning their dream to reality.
Lorna and Steve's aspiration is to be an exemplar for eco-tourism, founded on a low carbon footprint in aesthetically beautiful contemporary accommodations, providing year-round employment to local people and service providers. They invite you to celebrate the magic of the British climate, famous for its diversity and changeability, from the luxury of their state-of-the-art accommodations, purpose designed for living in the local landscape, across the seasons.
Wildlife & environment
Cynefin is are located on the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park, one of only five locations worldwide with a ‘dark sky’ status due to its low light and air pollution. The lodges therefore make for an excellent spot for star-gazing. There is a ‘secret willow garden’ at the end of the woodland, with woven and shaped willow boughs, the perfect quiet spot for a picnic, or reading a book. As you walk through the woodland, you will see habitat piles providing a home for local wildlife, hedgehogs, along with a plethora of bird, bat and owl boxes. There's also a public footpath bordering Cynefin Retreats, which leads up to the hills and down to the river. The path connects into the Wye Valley Walk and Offa’s Dyke is also close by.
-
Reviews
Our guests say...
Linzi
Beautiful cosy cabin, very quiet and peaceful. Hot tub was a treat too
27/12/2024Natalie
It was amazing - the hosts has thought about every little detail to make the stay special, the location was gorgeous and it was so relaxing and cosy! It was perfect in every single way and there is not one thing the hosts could improve on, it really was fantastic!
07/12/2024Jayne
This was an absolutely beautiful little stay. The pods are lovely and well equipped with anything you might need. The log burners made for a cosy stay and overall had a really good experience. The little added touches were appreciated too, marshmallows for toasting and wood for the log burners.
05/11/2024Rebecca
We had the best weekend, the cabin is so perfectly laid out and has everything you need. I love that it felt so private. So lovely to sit out by the fire pit. Hay on Wye was great to explore, we got lucky with the markets being on. We’ll happily book again in the future
04/10/2024Steph
We had a couple of implications on arrival but overall it was a really perfect place for us and we loved every minute was just over too quick!
22/12/2023Kayla
Our stay at Holly Cabin, Cynefin Retreats, was amazing! The cabin is absolutely incredible and they have thought of everything with so many little touches. It also feels so private which we loved and we went with our dog who is a spaniel who loves to explore. She loved the garden area and the woodland walk just outside the pod. The hosts provided dog bowls, towels, blankets etc. which made the trip so easy with a dog. The hosts even decorated the cabin with birthday balloons and a banner as we were celebrating my husband’s 30th. The cabin was immaculate and so spacious and the hot tub was also great. We would highly recommend and are already thinking about our next visit! We would also recommend Lou the masseuse who came to the cabin and the Bridge Eatery just up the road was amazing too!
19/10/2023Jasmine
We booked to stay at Holly pod for two nights. We had a wonderful break and felt thoroughly relaxed by the end of our stay.
16/08/2023Victoria
Our stay was super relaxing and it felt great to get to spend time away from the real world. We were in our own little bubble where you could switch off and relax.
11/08/2023Clemmie
We had a wonderful stay at Holly Cabin, I think this is the best cabin of all them, could see the landscape and sunset and have the privacy as well. My some loved it! Had all the modern convince’s as well as some outdoor experience. Was a great few days, could not have been happier
08/08/2023Saqib
We had a lovely stay at Holly Cabin - it is a beautiful setting and a really lovely cabin.
16/06/2023Danielle
Honestly, it was incredible. Outstanding setting in a beautiful natural environment. The accommodation was faultless - clean, well equipped, luxurious. We felt like we were in a dream with floor to ceiling picture windows displaying the most beautiful countryside. Absolutely exquisite. And can’t wait to go back again and again and again!
20/05/2023Holly
We absolutely enjoyed our stay at the Holly Cabin. It was so peaceful, relaxing and fully equipped. The wood was excellent for walks and the Willow formations were interesting. We both arrived with aches and pains and the Hot Tub eased our bodies, my limbs are much improved. The views were outstanding and the bird life was impressive.
12/04/2023Peter
We had a fantastic time at Holly Cabin. It was beautiful - from the floor to ceiling windows to the private view, the cozy hot tub and the amazing bed that felt like sleeping on a marshmallow. It was stocked with everything we needed and we loved the small touches like local apple juice and fresh milk in the fridge upon arrival. Most of the time we felt like we were the only ones there - so it was a perfect getaway!
25/03/2023Kate
Amazing weekend at Cynefin retreats. Picturesque, peaceful, modern, and luxurious. Would definitely recommend and hopefully be back
03/03/2023Holly
It was lovely and peaceful, the cabin was everything we were expecting and more. The location was great and were kept up to date ahead of our visit.
17/02/2023Alana
We had a lovely, peaceful retreat to holly cabin for two nights. It was gorgeous, they sent the handbook before so I knew exactly what to expect. The bed was the most comfortable bed I have ever slept in in my life. They responded really quickly to questions and were very kind. It’s is a beautiful place to stay and felt like total luxury. We felt so lucky to be there.
15/01/2023Aoife
After a long journey from Scotland we found Cynefin retreats no problem, and followed the path down to Holly Cabin - what a beautiful place to stay! The views were stunning and you are not overlooked at all, in fact you would be hard pushed to know if there was anyone else on site. The cabins are on a working farm but that didn’t interfere with the stay at all, and having access to a hot tub made it extra special.
06/10/2022Mark
We’ve been to a few Glamping type experiences and this is by far the best we’ve been to. The pod design is beautiful and it was clean and had everything you could possibly want including luxurious touches like local fresh apple juice, chocolate and basics like milk, coffee, cooking oil, salt etc. we didn’t expect the privacy in the design and we often felt there was nobody else on site. The garden and woodland pathway right next to our Holly pod was beautiful and we loved the lounger chairs, fire pit and jacuzzi. Even the information provided was spot on with guides to everything you could want and it’s position close to Hay on Wye is ideal. We went to recommended Kates bakery there and explored the Thursday market. The bed was beautifully comfortable and with curtains shut blackout dark and quiet. The rainfall shower was also wonderful. We loved it so much I’ve booked again for my partner’s birthday in October. It was a magical, relaxing experience..
24/08/2022Shona
We had an amazing stay at Holly Cabin. Very relaxing!
17/06/2022Emma
We took 2 nights away after our wedding as a break to relax and recharge after the day. The cabin was just what we needed: quiet private and cosy.
04/04/2022Nicola
Went for our mini moon and it was perfect! So tranquil and a great escape from the world.highly recommend!
18/03/2022Nicole
Fantastic stay in a beautiful lodge with spectacular views, the comfiest bed and perfect facilities. We felt very relaxed our whole stay and felt like we were at home! We will definitely be returning!
06/01/2022Aimee
We arrived and we were super impressed with the cabin. Everything was thought through with a lovely kitchen and bathroom, comfy bed, speaker, games and everything you would possibly need to cook a full meal in the evening. The fire pit and hot tub made it feel special and there was plenty of wood in the bootroom to purchase if needed. However, we enjoyed collecting our own from the nearby woodland, drying it out in the bootroom and spending 45 minutes working hard to get the fire going from stuff we collected. It was a great change from the hustle and bustle of our busy urban day to day lives.
07/08/2021Max
We stayed for a few nights as a getaway from home (after spending so much time in our house this year!) - although very rainy it was very nice, comfortable and cosy. We visited Hay-on-Wye and Brecon : both super easy to get to. Hay-on-Wye in particular had lots of nice food and drink places.
14/05/2021Louise
Our cabin was the perfect place to unwind, time felt like it actually slowed down! So much though had been put into the design and it was really cosy. Sheet, towels were good quality but most of all, the views were beautiful.
01/05/2021Amy
We had a great time in the Holly lodge. It was a great location to be able to unwind and relax. We really enjoyed spending time in the hot tub especially on an evening when the skies were absolutely filled with all the stars you could see from the lack of light pollution. We went on lots of walks exploring the area and headed over to the Brecon Beacons too.
05/10/2020Jennifer
This was our first holiday with our 5 month daughter, and we wanted to find a camping / nature holiday that still had all the home comforts we needed to keep Anwen warm, clean and happy. The Holly cabin suited this perfectly; the balance between outdoor living and luxury was spot on, the staff were very helpful and friendly, and the information provided told us everything we needed to know to get the most out of our stay. We had a fantastic time and hope to visit again!
27/09/2019Rebecca
Excellent facilities, beautiful location and friendly hosts. We were fortunate enough to experience true dark sky's one night with amazing views of the stars.
16/09/2019Alison
We had the most fantastic time at Holly Cabin. It was so well equipped and luxurious with everything catered for. The bedding was beautiful, the cabin was new and gorgeous set in a wonderful location. We were sat in the hot tub and a red kite flew directly above us. The fire pit was brilliant fun and we cooked burgers and sausages and toasted marshmallows.
10/09/2019Jon
Holly Cabin was superb. It is clearly evident that the owners took a great deal of care in planning and preparing the four cabins on site. We felt that we were in our own space and it was tremendously relaxing. Having the car parking area away from the cabin was a good move (your only a very short walk from the car, but it enhances the experience of seclusion) 'Cabin' is a slight understatement. The quality of everything was great - more like an upmarket apartment - there was everything you need, plus a very useful drying/boot room. The hot tub was very welcome after a long 5-hour walk in the Brecon Beacons. Hay on Wye is only a few minutes drive away with great places to eat and look around. The Wye is a marvel too! Take time to hire a canoe - a great way to see the river. If you're looking to chill and unwind, I would put Holly Cabin at the top of the list.
18/08/2019Chris
We had a wonderful stay at Holly Cabin. Really nicely presented cabin with everything you need for a relaxing stay. Personal highlights were relaxing in the lovely jacuzzi and cooking dinner on the fire pit. Would recommend to anyone one looking for a relaxing break
16/08/2019Simon
Our getaway was for my 50th birthday, as my friends had bought me a Canopy and Stars voucher and I then added an additional night on as it was my wife’s birthday too. We wanted a romantic getaway which was different to our house in the city. Whilst we wanted somewhere quiet and with a view, we also wanted to be near an interesting town/village, so this was perfect having Hay on Wye close by.
11/08/2019Marie
Absolutely loved Holly cabin and the beautiful setting it was in. Hot tub and fire pit were a nice addition. Very peaceful and nice to get away
02/08/2019Beth
Amazing stay at Holly Cabin. Setting and scenery was perfect for a romantic get away. Had all the right facilities and little extras such as milk, oil and marshmallows. Becky who was bumped into on site was very friendly and helpful. We asked for extra paper and fire lighters for the outdoor pit. She was more than happy to help and left it outside our door. We also asked for a later checkout to which Becky gave us an extra hour. Perfect!
31/07/2019Bianca
The cabins are beautifully crafted with skilful care and precision. The huge glass windows give you views across the fields allowing the sense of being connected to nature from the comfort of the cabin. You can open the doors and let the fresh air in or close up to the night sky and cosy up in-front of the roaring fire. The perfect peaceful escape and stones-throw from Hay, our favourite town of books where you can spend days wandering from bookshop to antique store to deli and more.
24/04/2019Tessa, Canopy & Stars
Reviews
Marvellous stay. Everything we wanted and more, the place was amazing and the surroundings were lovely.
03/02/2025Linzi
Beautiful cosy cabin, very quiet and peaceful. Hot tub was a treat too
27/12/2024Natalie
It was amazing - the hosts has thought about every little detail to make the stay special, the location was gorgeous and it was so relaxing and cosy! It was perfect in every single way and there is not one thing the hosts could improve on, it really was fantastic!
07/12/2024Jayne
This was an absolutely beautiful little stay. The pods are lovely and well equipped with anything you might need. The log burners made for a cosy stay and overall had a really good experience. The little added touches were appreciated too, marshmallows for toasting and wood for the log burners.
05/11/2024Rebecca
We had the best weekend, the cabin is so perfectly laid out and has everything you need. I love that it felt so private. So lovely to sit out by the fire pit. Hay on Wye was great to explore, we got lucky with the markets being on. We’ll happily book again in the future
04/10/2024Steph
We had a couple of implications on arrival but overall it was a really perfect place for us and we loved every minute was just over too quick!
22/12/2023Kayla
Our stay at Holly Cabin, Cynefin Retreats, was amazing! The cabin is absolutely incredible and they have thought of everything with so many little touches. It also feels so private which we loved and we went with our dog who is a spaniel who loves to explore. She loved the garden area and the woodland walk just outside the pod. The hosts provided dog bowls, towels, blankets etc. which made the trip so easy with a dog. The hosts even decorated the cabin with birthday balloons and a banner as we were celebrating my husband’s 30th. The cabin was immaculate and so spacious and the hot tub was also great. We would highly recommend and are already thinking about our next visit! We would also recommend Lou the masseuse who came to the cabin and the Bridge Eatery just up the road was amazing too!
19/10/2023Jasmine
We booked to stay at Holly pod for two nights. We had a wonderful break and felt thoroughly relaxed by the end of our stay.
16/08/2023Victoria
Our stay was super relaxing and it felt great to get to spend time away from the real world. We were in our own little bubble where you could switch off and relax.
11/08/2023Clemmie
We had a wonderful stay at Holly Cabin, I think this is the best cabin of all them, could see the landscape and sunset and have the privacy as well. My some loved it! Had all the modern convince’s as well as some outdoor experience. Was a great few days, could not have been happier
08/08/2023Saqib
We had a lovely stay at Holly Cabin - it is a beautiful setting and a really lovely cabin.
16/06/2023Danielle
Honestly, it was incredible. Outstanding setting in a beautiful natural environment. The accommodation was faultless - clean, well equipped, luxurious. We felt like we were in a dream with floor to ceiling picture windows displaying the most beautiful countryside. Absolutely exquisite. And can’t wait to go back again and again and again!
20/05/2023Holly
We absolutely enjoyed our stay at the Holly Cabin. It was so peaceful, relaxing and fully equipped. The wood was excellent for walks and the Willow formations were interesting. We both arrived with aches and pains and the Hot Tub eased our bodies, my limbs are much improved. The views were outstanding and the bird life was impressive.
12/04/2023Peter
We had a fantastic time at Holly Cabin. It was beautiful - from the floor to ceiling windows to the private view, the cozy hot tub and the amazing bed that felt like sleeping on a marshmallow. It was stocked with everything we needed and we loved the small touches like local apple juice and fresh milk in the fridge upon arrival. Most of the time we felt like we were the only ones there - so it was a perfect getaway!
25/03/2023Kate
Amazing weekend at Cynefin retreats. Picturesque, peaceful, modern, and luxurious. Would definitely recommend and hopefully be back
03/03/2023Holly
It was lovely and peaceful, the cabin was everything we were expecting and more. The location was great and were kept up to date ahead of our visit.
17/02/2023Alana
We had a lovely, peaceful retreat to holly cabin for two nights. It was gorgeous, they sent the handbook before so I knew exactly what to expect. The bed was the most comfortable bed I have ever slept in in my life. They responded really quickly to questions and were very kind. It’s is a beautiful place to stay and felt like total luxury. We felt so lucky to be there.
15/01/2023Aoife
After a long journey from Scotland we found Cynefin retreats no problem, and followed the path down to Holly Cabin - what a beautiful place to stay! The views were stunning and you are not overlooked at all, in fact you would be hard pushed to know if there was anyone else on site. The cabins are on a working farm but that didn’t interfere with the stay at all, and having access to a hot tub made it extra special.
06/10/2022Mark
We’ve been to a few Glamping type experiences and this is by far the best we’ve been to. The pod design is beautiful and it was clean and had everything you could possibly want including luxurious touches like local fresh apple juice, chocolate and basics like milk, coffee, cooking oil, salt etc. we didn’t expect the privacy in the design and we often felt there was nobody else on site. The garden and woodland pathway right next to our Holly pod was beautiful and we loved the lounger chairs, fire pit and jacuzzi. Even the information provided was spot on with guides to everything you could want and it’s position close to Hay on Wye is ideal. We went to recommended Kates bakery there and explored the Thursday market. The bed was beautifully comfortable and with curtains shut blackout dark and quiet. The rainfall shower was also wonderful. We loved it so much I’ve booked again for my partner’s birthday in October. It was a magical, relaxing experience..
24/08/2022Shona
We had an amazing stay at Holly Cabin. Very relaxing!
17/06/2022Emma
We took 2 nights away after our wedding as a break to relax and recharge after the day. The cabin was just what we needed: quiet private and cosy.
04/04/2022Nicola
Went for our mini moon and it was perfect! So tranquil and a great escape from the world.highly recommend!
18/03/2022Nicole
Fantastic stay in a beautiful lodge with spectacular views, the comfiest bed and perfect facilities. We felt very relaxed our whole stay and felt like we were at home! We will definitely be returning!
06/01/2022Aimee
We arrived and we were super impressed with the cabin. Everything was thought through with a lovely kitchen and bathroom, comfy bed, speaker, games and everything you would possibly need to cook a full meal in the evening. The fire pit and hot tub made it feel special and there was plenty of wood in the bootroom to purchase if needed. However, we enjoyed collecting our own from the nearby woodland, drying it out in the bootroom and spending 45 minutes working hard to get the fire going from stuff we collected. It was a great change from the hustle and bustle of our busy urban day to day lives.
07/08/2021Max
We stayed for a few nights as a getaway from home (after spending so much time in our house this year!) - although very rainy it was very nice, comfortable and cosy. We visited Hay-on-Wye and Brecon : both super easy to get to. Hay-on-Wye in particular had lots of nice food and drink places.
14/05/2021Louise
Our cabin was the perfect place to unwind, time felt like it actually slowed down! So much though had been put into the design and it was really cosy. Sheet, towels were good quality but most of all, the views were beautiful.
01/05/2021Amy
We had a great time in the Holly lodge. It was a great location to be able to unwind and relax. We really enjoyed spending time in the hot tub especially on an evening when the skies were absolutely filled with all the stars you could see from the lack of light pollution. We went on lots of walks exploring the area and headed over to the Brecon Beacons too.
05/10/2020Jennifer
This was our first holiday with our 5 month daughter, and we wanted to find a camping / nature holiday that still had all the home comforts we needed to keep Anwen warm, clean and happy. The Holly cabin suited this perfectly; the balance between outdoor living and luxury was spot on, the staff were very helpful and friendly, and the information provided told us everything we needed to know to get the most out of our stay. We had a fantastic time and hope to visit again!
27/09/2019Rebecca
Excellent facilities, beautiful location and friendly hosts. We were fortunate enough to experience true dark sky's one night with amazing views of the stars.
16/09/2019Alison
We had the most fantastic time at Holly Cabin. It was so well equipped and luxurious with everything catered for. The bedding was beautiful, the cabin was new and gorgeous set in a wonderful location. We were sat in the hot tub and a red kite flew directly above us. The fire pit was brilliant fun and we cooked burgers and sausages and toasted marshmallows.
10/09/2019Jon
Holly Cabin was superb. It is clearly evident that the owners took a great deal of care in planning and preparing the four cabins on site. We felt that we were in our own space and it was tremendously relaxing. Having the car parking area away from the cabin was a good move (your only a very short walk from the car, but it enhances the experience of seclusion) 'Cabin' is a slight understatement. The quality of everything was great - more like an upmarket apartment - there was everything you need, plus a very useful drying/boot room. The hot tub was very welcome after a long 5-hour walk in the Brecon Beacons. Hay on Wye is only a few minutes drive away with great places to eat and look around. The Wye is a marvel too! Take time to hire a canoe - a great way to see the river. If you're looking to chill and unwind, I would put Holly Cabin at the top of the list.
18/08/2019Chris
We had a wonderful stay at Holly Cabin. Really nicely presented cabin with everything you need for a relaxing stay. Personal highlights were relaxing in the lovely jacuzzi and cooking dinner on the fire pit. Would recommend to anyone one looking for a relaxing break
16/08/2019Simon
Our getaway was for my 50th birthday, as my friends had bought me a Canopy and Stars voucher and I then added an additional night on as it was my wife’s birthday too. We wanted a romantic getaway which was different to our house in the city. Whilst we wanted somewhere quiet and with a view, we also wanted to be near an interesting town/village, so this was perfect having Hay on Wye close by.
11/08/2019Marie
Absolutely loved Holly cabin and the beautiful setting it was in. Hot tub and fire pit were a nice addition. Very peaceful and nice to get away
02/08/2019Beth
Amazing stay at Holly Cabin. Setting and scenery was perfect for a romantic get away. Had all the right facilities and little extras such as milk, oil and marshmallows. Becky who was bumped into on site was very friendly and helpful. We asked for extra paper and fire lighters for the outdoor pit. She was more than happy to help and left it outside our door. We also asked for a later checkout to which Becky gave us an extra hour. Perfect!
31/07/2019Bianca
The cabins are beautifully crafted with skilful care and precision. The huge glass windows give you views across the fields allowing the sense of being connected to nature from the comfort of the cabin. You can open the doors and let the fresh air in or close up to the night sky and cosy up in-front of the roaring fire. The perfect peaceful escape and stones-throw from Hay, our favourite town of books where you can spend days wandering from bookshop to antique store to deli and more.
24/04/2019Tessa, Canopy & Stars
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Marvellous stay. Everything we wanted and more, the place was amazing and the surroundings were lovely.
03/02/2025