The Oak Retreat

Crickhowell, Powys, Wales

Luxury wooden accommodation set in a secluded location on the Glanusk Estate offers a romantic or family retreat close to the River Usk near Crickhowell.

The Quirky Tour

Lovely cabin in its own area on a beautiful estate, set amongst oak trees and with the sound of the river rushing by below.

Jess' visit on 21st January during The Quirky Tour 2023

Key Points

  • Spacious wooden property sleeps 3 adults or a family of 4 in a double/twin bed plus a sofa bed near Crickhowell.
  • There are pubs within walking distance in the town of Crickhowell plus one on the Estate - the Nantyfinn Cider Mill.
  • There is a kitchenette for simple food preparation plus a BBQ and fire pit for al fresco cooking.
  • There is a separate toilet and shower pod alongside the sleeping pod.
  • Enjoy hiking and cycling within the Brecon Beacons and Black Mountains or the starry nights of this Dark Sky Reserve area.
  • Take a trip to Tretower Court and Castle and admire this fully restored Medieval property.

Description

Oak Retreat is a unique accommodation situated in the leafy surroundings of the iconic Glanusk Oak Collection on the Glanusk Estate near Crickhowell deep in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park.

Nestled above the River Usk and surrounded by nature, Oak Retreat is the perfect getaway for couples, anglers, friends and family or a lone traveller wanting to get away from it all.

A luxurious and spacious wooden accommodation which sleeps 3 adults or a family of 4.

Inside the sleeping and living accommodation is one double/twin bed (please specify when booking) plus a comfy 6ft sofa bed. The kitchenette is equipped for simple cooking with a larger food preparation area and sink outside, ideal for those days when the sun is shining and a BBQ is callling you! There is a separate loo and shower pod adjacent to the Oak Retreat. Both pods are fully heated with hot water 24/7 and WIFI.

Outside you can relax on the wicker garden furniture around the firepit, taking in the sights and sounds of nature that surround you. Oak Retreat is located in a peaceful setting so you are sure not to be disturbed by passing traffic or people, however local wildlife may pass by. Access is via a single track that winds past the Estate Church and up into the Oak Collection.

Situated right in the heart of the Glanusk Estate, Oak Retreat is an ideal base for exploring Mid Wales, the iconic Black Mountains and Brecon Beacons National Park with fabulous access to walking and cycling from the Estate and fishing on 5 private miles of the River Usk. The Estate is steeped in history with numerous Grade II and II* CADW listed buildings and properties, as well as an impressive Oak Collection including Royal Oaks which were planted by members of the Royal Family. Your stay at Glanusk will be filled with adventure, discovery or simple relaxation.

The surrounding Brecon Beacons and Black Mountains are a playground for hiking and mountain biking - ask at the Estate Office about guided walks with foraging or nature options. There are long distance trails including the Usk Valley Walk and the Beacons Way running nearby. Guests are welcome to join a run with the local Running Club or a Fit Camp session with the resident PT instructor.

As well as the national park, Glanusk Estate is also within an International Dark Sky Reserve, the first Dark Skies Reserve in Wales, and on a clear night you can enjoy the Milky Way, the major constellations and occasionally meteor showers.

For some history, step back in time immerse yourself in Welsh culture at Blaenavon (25-minute drive), a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000 that's home to the Big Pit National Coal Museum (0300 111 2333), Blaenavon Ironworks (01495 792615), the World Heritage Centre and Blaenavon Heritage Railway. In Pantyscallog (half-hour-drive away), the Brecon Mountain Railway (01685 722988) offers some further history while trundling you the full length of Pontsticill Reservoir.

For pubs, cafés and a little town life, Crickhowell is within walking or cycling distance and hosts a walking festival, literary festival and numerous other events throughout the year. It's 8 miles to Abergavenny, 12 miles to Brecon, 14 miles to Talgarth and 20 miles to Hay on Wye.

There are numerous events in the area which if you time it right you will enjoy such as Crickhowell Walking Festival in March, the Estate Fayre and NGS Open Garden in May, Hay FestivalMay/June, Royal Welsh Show in July, Abergavenny Food Festival in September and Crickhowell Literary Festival in September/October.

Wales is well known for its many castles whilst here why not check out Blaenllynfi Castle, Carreg Cennen Castle, Castell Coch, Crickhowell Castle, Cyfartha Castle or Tretower Castle.

Oak Retreat is £150 per night with a minimum of a 2 night stay. The basics of bread, butter, eggs, milk, tea, coffee and sugar are provided in your Welcome Hamper for your arrival. If you would like to order a Glanusk Hamper, Glanusk Gin or Whisky these can be provided as well.

Guests are welcome to bring one well behaved dog for an additional charge of £5 per dog per night. Dog bedding is not provided.

Room Types

Double
Twin
Family Rooms
Whole property for 5 or more

Features

Bathroom

 Robe

 Shower

 Sink

 Toilet

Amenities

 Blankets

 Heating

 Plug sockets

 Sofa bed

Paid Extras

 Hampers

Outdoor

 Fire pit

 Seating area

 Terrace

Nearby (within 5 miles)

 Country walks

 Lake / River

 Local shop

 Pub within walking distance

 Restaurant

 Shops

Events

 Family friendly site

Entertainment

 WiFi

On Arrival

 Included - Linen

 Included - Towels

Kitchen

 Hob

 Kettle

 Tea & Coffee

 Toaster

Young Children

 Welcome all ages

Parking

 Free parking

Setting

 Small site (2-4 accoms)

FAQs

What should we bring?

Country clothes, bikes, dogs, food and drink.

Nearest Airport/s

Cardiff / Bristol


Content updated on 24th January 2023 by Louise Catterall, Content Editor at QuirkyAccom in collaboration with Harry Legge-Bourke from The Oak Retreat