Imagine drifting off to sleep, ensconced in luxury, while nestled 1,375 vertical feet beneath the rugged mountains of Snowdonia (Wales). This isn’t the plot of a fantasy novel but the reality of Deep Sleep, the world’s deepest glamping site. Set in an abandoned Victorian slate mine, this unique underground retreat is redefining the glamping experience, offering an adventure that plunges guests into the heart of the earth.
The Deep Sleep experience comprises four private twin-bed cabins and a romantic grotto with a double bed. All bedding is provided, ensuring guests have a comfortable stay in the heart of the mine.
The adventure begins on a Saturday evening and concludes on Sunday morning. Guests are met by their trip leader at 5 PM at the Tanygrisiau Base, near Blaenau Ffestiniog. From there, a 45-minute hike, steep at times, takes them into the mountains, culminating in breathtaking views at the summit.
Upon arrival at a quaint cottage, guests are equipped with helmets, head torches, harnesses, and Wellington boots. The descent into the world’s largest and deepest abandoned slate mine is both steep and challenging, requiring guests to navigate ancient miners’ stairways, decaying bridges, and scrambles. However, the journey is enriched with historical insights provided by the instructor, making it both an educational and thrilling experience.
After approximately an hour, guests are greeted by a large steel door signaling their arrival at Deep Sleep. Here, they can unwind with a warm drink and a complimentary expedition-style meal, with options catering to meat lovers, vegans, and vegetarians alike. The evening is theirs to relax and enjoy the unique ambiance of the underground.
A dedicated instructor and technical staff member remain on-site throughout the night, ensuring guests’ safety and comfort. The following morning, a range of buffet-style breakfast items, including muffins, croissants, flapjacks, and more, await guests. Breakfast is included at no extra cost.
The experience is open to children aged 14 and over, accompanied by adults. The mine maintains a consistent temperature of 10 degrees celsius year-round, akin to night temperatures in Wales during June and September. The cabins are thermally lined, providing a cozy retreat from the cooler chamber outside.
Deep Sleep is not just a place to rest; it’s an eco-friendly marvel. The site is powered by 12v batteries charged by micro-hydro turbines, harnessing the force of falling water within the mine. Backup power is provided by a surface diesel generator, ensuring uninterrupted power supply.
For those who can’t completely disconnect, Deep Sleep does offer Wi-Fi, made possible through a 1km long armored ethernet cable connected to a 4G antenna on the surface. However, guests should note that there is no mobile phone reception, making it a true escape from the outside world.
The facilities at Deep Sleep are designed to be in harmony with its unique environment. While there is a toilet, it operates more like a composting system, common in remote camps. Its use is straightforward, and instructions are provided to ensure guests’ comfort.
For those curious about the ambiance, mines are rarely silent. Depending on recent weather, the sound of falling water, ranging from occasional drips to small waterfalls, can be heard. However, the Grotto offers utter silence for those seeking a more tranquil experience.
Guests are advised to pack light, as all belongings must fit into a backpack. The mine air, cool and clear, offers relief to hay fever sufferers, being devoid of pollen. However, those with serious fungal allergies should be cautious, as some fungi can be found in the mine’s damper corners.
Running water, sourced from a spring within the mine, is available and has been laboratory-tested for quality. The cabins, equipped with dehumidifiers, remain dry and fresh, providing a comfortable environment for guests.
For a visual experience, interested readers can watch this video showcasing the Deep Sleep experience. Developers and those curious about the construction can view this video detailing the building process.
For more information, visit go-below.co.uk/deep-sleep.
Featured image from Go Below Underground Adventures.