Snowdonia Glamping Holidays

Nestled in the hills above the pretty village of Betws-y-Coed, in Snowdonia's beautiful Conwy Valley, is a rather magical glamping spot. Already home to some cosy off-grid shepherds huts, owners Richard and Hazel also recently added a barn that takes glamping to a whole new level. Whichever option you go for, this is a place where you can really switch off: not only are the surroundings stunning, there's no mobile or wifi signal (urbanites, don't let that put you off).

Positioned above a bubbling stream,  the huts and barn are half a mile from the road, along a farm track – a perfect, peaceful location where herons often fish in the stream, red kites whirl overhead and a family of hares lives nearby. You'll hear the resident owls hooting as you sit cosy by your fire in the evenings. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, there is superb walking and mountain biking on your doorstep.

The shepherds' huts are a favourite haunt for camping couples and it isn't hard to see why – painted in soothing shades of eggshell and tastefully decorated with the finest local woollens, and with a wood-burning stove to keep things cosy. There's a 'living' hut' and a 'washing' hut (with bathroom and sauna), and you hire both exclusively; plus there's a  shepherd's hut 'tent' for 2 children if you need it. Campfires are allowed in the designated fire pit.

The boutique barn has been divided into two units, each sleeping four – ideal for both a family holiday and couples seeking a romantic break. Inside, wood-burning stoves, underfloor heating, super king-sized beds and freestanding baths will make you wonder where the camping aspect of glamping comes in. Head outside and there's your answer – each unit has a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, firepit and BBQ. The backdrop? Snowdonia National Park in all its glory, not to mention some wonderfully starry skies. The kitchen's covered by a glass roof, so even if it rains you can still sit out in one of the comfy chairs with a Welsh blanket and take it all in.

Nothing's too much trouble for Hazel and Richard – they'll put together a hamper for you (think Welsh mountain lamb and black beef), there are binoculars for wildlife watching, books and board games for when the weather doesn't play ball and maps for trip planning. The location is enviable, Snowdonia National Park's forests, lakes and mountains are right on your doorstep – head out on two-wheels down to the Machno Trail, a 19-kilometre loop, or hike the 12-kilometre Snowdon Horseshoe. Come evening, if you don't fancy cooking back at the barn, Ty Gwyn Coaching Inn is a great local place to eat Welsh fare, whilst Olif is popular for Welsh Tapas (yes, you did read that right). Then back to your peaceful retreat for some star-gazing.