The Little Retreat

Deep in the heart of the Pembrokeshire National Park, The Little Retreat could just be Pembrokeshire's hidden glamping secret. Seemingly buried in the countryside of South Wales, it enjoys a ravishing location high above the Cleddau river in the grounds of the Lawrenny Estate, next door to the pretty village of the same name. It's far enough away from the hurly burly of the coast to be peaceful, yet close enough to enjoy both Pembrokeshire's cliffs and beaches and the region's often unsung green interior. "Escape the Ordinary' is their motto, and The Little Retreat's collection of luxury geo-domes and summer bell tents gives you the opportunity to do just that.

The Little Retreat is the brainchild of local wellbeing coach Amber Lort-Phillips, whose popular 'Big Retreat Wales' festival of wellbeing is held here every year in May. Not surprisingly everything about the site aims to soothe your soul, with a thoughtful formula of luxury glamping, access to some pretty unspoilt nature and any number of treats for the mind and body. Tucked away in a secluded location in the estate's upper walled garden, the geo-domes are the ultimate in high-end glamping. Fully insulated and provided with wood-burning stoves to keep things warm and toasty all year round, each has its own kitchen and bathroom, comfy beds and sofas and a private wood-fired hot tub. Cosy nights in are aided by good wifi and smart TVs so you you can always hunker down with a Netflix box set if the weather plays up.

Dogs are welcome, and there are plenty of places to walk them nearby. Amber can also organise yoga and meditation sessions, wild swimming, foraging , painting and other activities, and you can even hire the entire site for a really memorable country wedding. In summer they also have half a dozen more basic bell tents, with their own water supply and toilet/shower facilities; these also have free wifi and a fire pit and picnic table outside for al fresco dining but you have to bring your own beds and bedding. The location, however, is just as perfect – generously spaced in two separate fields and looking across the rest of the estate and the river.

Whatever brings you here, it would be hard to imagine a better location; indeed you could spend a very happy few days just exploring the grounds and immediate surroundings, with numerous walks to choose from – for example a scenic circular walk through Lawrenny's ancient oak woodland or another following the tidal creeks of Garron Pill and the Cresswell River. Amber is always on hand to point out the best routes, including those that go by the local pub, the Lawrenny Arms, or the excellent Quayside Café, as well as all the nearby attractions. Tenby and Freshwater East Beach are just 20 minutes away, Pembroke and its magnificent castle are a short drive, as is the wonderful expanse of Barafundle Bay – one of our favourite beaches in Wales, if not the entire UK. Why wouldn't you come?