Heron Lodge

Heron Lodge sits on fifty acres of smallholding in Gwendraeth Valley, where two lakes and wooded hillside dominate the outlook. The timber lodge itself contains one double bedroom on a galleried upper floor, a ground-floor shower room, and living space split across an open plan. A sofa bed in the living room means the property sleeps three. There's an unfenced lake five yards from the building, and a natural water supply from a spring feeds the property.

The kitchen has what you need to cook properly—electric oven, induction hob, microwave and fridge-freezer—while the living areas include a smart TV and DVD player. Heating, electricity, bed linen, towels and wifi are included. The real draw is outdoors: a private hot tub for three on raised decking, a lawned garden with furniture and a BBQ, and fishing on-site (your own licence required). Parking fits two cars.

This works well for small groups wanting countryside quiet. Pembrey Country Park, with its woodland walks and beach, is eight miles away. Ffos Las racecourse is three miles off. Laugharne and its literary associations are within reach, as are the Gower Peninsula and various castles. No smoking inside the lodge.