When we think of heading off for a bit of great Welsh countryside, we usually think of the coasts of Pembrokeshire and Gower, or the rolling hills or Carmarthenshire. But, take a drive through the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) northwards, and find yourself in Powys, in the Elan Valley, close to the quaint market town of Rhayader. This is the outdoors capital of Wales.

Located in the heart of the Welsh countryside, two beautifully designed, identical lodges at Rhosllyn Retreats offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and are perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. And that is exactly what my sister Diane, nephew Ifan, and myself had in mind when we met in Rhayader.

Staying in Lakeside Lodge, we found all the modern amenities you could need, including a fully-equipped kitchen, comfortable living room, and four spacious bedrooms. The attention to detail throughout is remarkable, with stylish interiors befitting its location, and high-quality furnishings that create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

One of the standout features here is that each lodge has a private hot tub that overlooks a small lake. This is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day exploring the local area. Whether you’re soaking up the sun during the day or watching the stars at night, it is a truly magical experience that you won’t forget.

One of the many highlights of staying at Rhosllyn Retreats is its proximity to Rhayader, known as the outdoors capital of Wales. This charming town is located just a few miles away and is home to a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and fishing.

The town itself is steeped in history and boasts a range of interesting attractions, including the impressive dams and reservoirs of the Elan Valley. There are also plenty of local shops, cafés, and restaurants to explore, making Rhayader the perfect place to spend a day.

But what really sets Rhosllyn Retreats apart are its owners, Andrew and Kate. Andrew, a local farmer with an encyclopaedic knowledge of the area, is always on hand to provide advice and recommendations on the best places to visit, and he takes great pride in ensuring that his guests have the best possible experience during their stay.

Located on a working farm, we took advantage of Andrew’s kind offer to take a tour- much to Ifan’s delight. Walking and talking with Andrew, it’s clear that he is passionate about the local area, and the part he plays in keeping this pocket of rural Wales alive. From the brow of a hill close to the farmyard, he points out farmsteads on steep slopes, where generations of his family were born. History seeps through the streams of this land, and speaking with our host gave us a unique insight into the rural way of life and a chance to connect with nature in a truly special way.

Rhosllyn is a wonderful holiday retreat that offers the perfect combination of luxury and adventure. With its stunning location, luxurious amenities, and exceptional attention to detail, these lodges are sure to provide you with an unforgettable holiday experience. And with the added bonus of Andrew’s expertise, you can be sure that your stay will be nothing short of perfect.