Wonderful Escapes, a peaceful haven nestled on the slopes of the Skirrid Mountain on the eastern edge of the Brecon Beacons, invites guests to reconnect with nature through carefully curated wellness retreats, all within the idyllic Wern-y-Cwm Farmstead. Founded by Laura Tenison MBE, who ran the UK’s leading mother and baby brand JoJo Maman Bébé for nearly 30 years, this lovingly restored hideaway offers an ideal escape from the fast-paced technology governed world.
At the heart of Wonderful Escapes is Wern-y-Cwm, a beautifully restored Grade II listed farmhouse that blends modern comfort with a commitment to sustainability. The property has been thoughtfully renovated using recycled materials and up-cycled furniture, creating inviting spaces that reflect a respect for the environment. Guests are treated to a farm-to-table dining experience, with organic produce grown on-site and locally sourced meat, simultaneously reducing food miles and supporting the local community.
Guests can enjoy an invigorating morning swim in the new natural swimming pond, marvel at the night sky with blankets and hot chocolate during stargazing sessions, or take part in some gentle bumble bee spotting, where visitors can explore the organically farmed land, which serves as a haven for bees and butterflies. During the spring and summer months, guests are encouraged to see how many species they can spot, some of which are quite rare. It’s a sanctuary where natural beauty and wellness harmonise to offer a complete sense of peace and rejuvenation.
In 2025 Wonderful Escapes offers a varied retreat calendar designed to cater to different wellness needs. Some of the highlights include:
Yoga and Silent Retreat: Focused on deep inner reflection, this retreat combines yoga practices with periods of silence to foster clarity and calm.13th to 17th January 2025.
Magical Midlife Retreat: Designed to empower women navigating midlife transitions, this retreat offers guided sessions that promote personal growth and emotional well-being. 6th-10 January 2025
Women-Only Guided Retreats: Tailored exclusively for women, these retreats provide a safe and supportive environment to relax, recharge, and connect with like-minded individuals.19th to 23rd May 2025.
360 Wellness Retreat: A holistic retreat that incorporates mindfulness, nutrition, and bodywork for a fully immersive experience. 9th – 13th June 2025.
As Tenison explains: “At Wonderful Escapes, the emphasis is on grounding oneself in nature, finding solace in simplicity, and creating meaningful connections—whether through yoga on the mountainside, meditative walks around the farm, or a peaceful dip in the natural pond”
