Cadno - Unyoked Cabin, Llangollen, Wales: review
Amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it can be all too easy to get wrapped up in work, chores, general life admin and become disconnected from what really matters. There really is nothing like getting out into nature to find space and perspective again, so when I had the chance to get off grid and stay in an Unyoked cabin, to say I jumped would be a huge understatement.
A Serene Escape
Nestled in rolling green hills not far from the quaint town of Llangollen, Wales, the idyllic and secluded setting provides all the peace and quiet you need to relax and reconnect with nature. A wonderfully scenic drive led me to a field full of sheep - the wooden “Unyoked” signpost confirming that this was indeed where I was meant to be. I loaded my luggage into the thoughtfully provided wheelbarrow and strolled 500m across grassy meadows to find “Cadno”, my cabin, tucked secretly away behind some trees. Home for a couple of days, I could literally feel all of my worries melting away.
Considered Craftsmanship
I opened the front door to a warm and beautifully furnished wooden interior, large windows framing picturesque views of the surrounding countryside, and the cosiest bed ever! Small but perfectly formed, Unyoked’s carefully crafted, bespoke designs go beyond aesthetics, seeking to be as sustainable as they are comfortable. From the construction materials to the use of solar power, rain water and compost, it encourages a certain way of being - a consciousness of consumption, from water to waste, and an appreciation of our impact. The manual nature of everyday things, from grinding coffee beans with a hand grinder to cooking dinner on an open fire, made me be more mindful and in the moment. And I really valued the opportunity to slow down like this.
Special Touches
Not a single detail hadn’t been thought about. Hot water bottles came in handy on the first chilly evening, a nostalgic CD player meant there was no need for Spotify (Nina Simone made the perfect soundtrack to cooking dinner - the suggested recipes too were wonderful), and it couldn’t have been a more scenic spot for morning yoga with the mats provided. Despite being so remote and secluded, the feeling of care was second to none.
The Perfect Base
After a restful sleep in the wilderness, I couldn’t wait to get out exploring the trails winding through the surrounding hills and valleys. A welcome guide gave endless inspiration, and I particularly enjoyed a hike up to Castell Dinas Brân - a historic hilltop castle with panoramic views of the area. For water sports enthusiasts, the nearby River Dee provides opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and white-water rafting. While the charming town of Llangollen is just a short drive away, where you can find quaint shops, delightful cafes, and a cute steam railway. After days of fresh air and countless steps, there was no better feeling than returning to a cosy cabin and lighting the fire.
This stay truly was nothing short of magical, and a real reminder of how simple life can be. Leaving refreshed and rejuvenated, I’ve since made a pact with myself to get out into nature more regularly. Unyoked’s strategic locations are just far enough to feel remote while being close enough to be accessible, making these restorative experiences possible without the need for extensive travel. With cabins across the UK, I’m spoilt for choice for my next adventure!
Lily was a guest of Unyoked