This digital detox glamping site, in the heart of the Welsh countryside, promises a total switch off with no wifi or signal
In the distance was a large geometric dome structure, perched amid the secluded countryside landscape and resident shee(Image: Portia Jones )
Sometimes, we just need a break – a proper one.
When life gets busy with deadlines, life admin and other mundane bits, a escape from it all can make all the difference.
And, with phones keeping us connected at all times, more and more of us are now looking for digital detoxes.
And WalesOnline reporter Portia Jones found just the ideal place, just an hour’s drive from Bristol. This is what she wrote:
I wanted somewhere off-grid – remote enough to make me feel like I was the only person for miles but also comfortable enough to hunker down for a long weekend in Wales.
Luckily a swish digital detox glamping site only an hour from Cardiff promised a total switch off with no wifi or signal.
Adrift at the Dome is a fully off-grid glamping dome set in the beautiful Llanthony valley. It was exactly what I needed: a glamping stay in a quirky geodome with no wifi, phone signal, or endless distractions. A secluded stay for two in the glorious Welsh countryside. Bliss.
I packed my bags with my finest glamping outfits, wellies, flask, and ‘must-read’ books that had long been collecting dust on my shelves and I set off for Llanthony with my obliging husband in tow.
After a winding drive down a single-track road through the Black Mountains, flanked by a canopy of trees, we arrived at the foot of a sweeping valley.
Adrift at the Dome is a fully off-grid, glamping dome set in the beautiful Llanthony Valley(Image: Portia Jones )
In the distance was a large geometric dome structure perched amid the secluded countryside landscape and resident sheep.
From the moment I stepped out of the car I could feel the stress slipping away. No notifications. No emails from editors (sorry, Sion). No rush. Just the crisp spring air and a night of remote, notification-free bliss before me. Maybe even a cheeky glass of wine and some pasta?
Inside the dome was deceptively roomy and far chicer than I expected. Here cosy cabin vibes meet minimalist Scandi dream with a touch of intergalactic glam.
With a panoramic view of the Llanthony valley from the huge window, it’s the perfect set-up if you love nature but also value snuggly duvets, hot showers, and not being eaten alive by midges. A wild stay with hotel-room level comfort and I was here for it.
The stylish and well-thought-out space is cleverly divided into zones including a proper kitchen for all your snacking needs, an en suite bathroom so you’re not fumbling around in the dark with a torch, and a stargazing bed that sounds like something straight out of a 90s rom-com.
There are also many thoughtful touches like a log fire, books, and blankies that give the space a homely, cwtchy feel,(Image: Portia Jones )
There are also many thoughtful touches like a log fire, books, and blankets that give the space a homely, cwtchy feel making it ideal for a romantic break for two.
The dome operates solely on solar power which means there is limited electricity for charging devices but there is light and power for essentials. Don’t bother bringing an iPad as there’s no wifi – and you won’t need it anyway as a selection of books is provided if you want a relaxing read and to chill out.
Nearly half the dome is see-through so you can lie in bed with your fave and watch the constellations – there is no need to bundle up or brave the unpredictable Welsh weather. It’s camping but without any of the character-building misery.
The compact kitchenette has all the essentials for whipping up a meal including a small hob, fridge, cooking utensils, crockery, cutlery, washing-up liquid, sponges, and tea towels.
The compact kitchenette has all the essentials(Image: Portia Jones )
While the dome is a wonderful and relaxing space the rustic outdoor area made our stay extra-special. The small fire pit and tree stump seats overlook the valley and are the perfect spot to sit watching the stars come out while toasting marshmallows. Logs and kindling for the log burner and outside fire pit are also provided to keep you toasty warm inside and out.
One of the best things about staying at the dome is that it’s in a starry haven as Bannau Brycheiniog is a Dark Sky Reserve.
The valley’s isolation, far removed from towns and artificial lights, means that when conditions are right the sky can be perfectly clear on those cool, crisp autumn nights and you can gaze up at a canvas of twinkling stars and planets.
It was slightly overcast when we stayed though moving clouds gave occasional glimpses of the glittering cosmos above. It was relaxing to sit outside toasting marshmallows and sipping wine without resorting to Netflix or idly scrolling on our phones. It was a proper digital detox evening.
Reaching Adrift at the dome is part of the adventure(Image: Portia Jones )
One of the main reasons I wanted to stay at Adrift at the dome was the promise of being completely off-grid for a short while.
No wifi, no mobile signal, nothing to pull me away from the moment. And honestly I thought it might be difficult at first. As a journalist and podcaster I’m so used to reaching for my phone every few minutes – a bad habit that’s hard to break.
But within hours of arriving I’d already forgotten about it. The lack of a digital connection permitted me to slow down in a way I hadn’t realised I needed.
There was no need to doom scroll, no notifications to check, and no need to respond to messages. Instead I enjoyed a slower pace reading, cooking pasta, watching the fire, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
While we were perfectly content to spend much of our time around the cabin we couldn’t resist exploring the valley the next day.
Bannau Brycheiniog is a Dark Sky Reserve(Image: Edward Bentley/Getty)
Llanthony valley itself is rich with history and glorious natural beauty. Just a short walk from the cabin is Llanthony Priory, a magnificent 12th-century ruin in the shadow of the Black Mountains.
Wandering through its arches, surrounded by sweeping Welsh countryside, felt almost otherworldly. The surrounding hills offer fantastic walks to stretch your legs and get your step count up.
Bannau Brycheiniog is right on your doorstep with trails that range from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes. If you want to reintegrate into modern life the charming town of Abergavenny is a short drive away and has plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore.
So did I miss the internet? Not one bit. The only ping I needed was the one from my wine glass. I came, I glamped, I forgot to check my emails and, honestly, that’s the kind of inbox zero I can get behind.
The lack of a digital connection permitted me to slow down in a way I hadn’t realised I needed.(Image: Portia Jones )
How to get to Llanthony Castaway and what you need to know
Reaching Adrift at the dome is part of the adventure as its remote location deep within the Bannau Brycheiniog adds to its off-grid charm. Llanthony is approximately 30 minutes from Abergavenny, which is the nearest town if you travel by car.
Abergavenny is well-connected by train so this would be your best starting point for those arriving by public transport. From there it’s a scenic drive along winding narrow lanes that will bring you into the heart of the valley.
Be aware that the final part of the journey involves navigating some narrow country roads so driving with care is essential.
In the distance was a large geometric dome structure, perched amid the secluded countryside landscape and resident shee(Image: Portia Jones )
GPS signals can be unreliable in the area so it’s a good idea to download directions or ensure you know the route in advance.
Once you arrive you’ll park in a designated area and walk across the field to your dome home for the evening.
The dome has no wifi or mobile signal, which is frankly a huge bonus and not a flaw.
This makes it the perfect place for a digital detox but it’s worth letting family and friends know you’ll be off the grid during your stay.
Well-behaved dogs are allowed but an extra fee is required.