A couple from London have launched a luxury glamping site in West Wales after a four-year development process that included planning approvals, construction, and site preparation.
Barney and Heather Barc have officially opened Pont Tyweli Glamping following their move away from city life and the completion of an 11-acre rural site. The property now includes three geodesic domes, each equipped with hot tubs, along with a developing family play area that is expected to expand further with features such as dens and tunnels.
The couple, previously working as an electrician and an employment lawyer, shifted their focus toward creating a hospitality business that would allow for a different family routine. Heather continued her legal work remotely during the transition.
“When we were living in the city, we dropped the kids at 7:30 am and then didn’t get to pick them up until 6 pm from nursery, and that was 5 days a week. We wanted to change that, so we thought what better way than to try to do something on our own,” she told Tivy-Side Advertiser.
The site was identified during what the couple described as an unplanned search for a new home and business location. They ultimately selected Pont Tyweli after visiting the area.
“There’s eleven acres in total, and where we’ve put the three domes in is the top field, giving you stunning sunsets.
“You can also quite easily walk into Llandysul, whilst we have so many fantastic beaches, castles, places to eat, and long walks that couples and families can enjoy in the local area.
Barney left his job and has been involved in construction and installation work on-site, using his trade skills to help build and prepare the domes ahead of the opening.
The domes, named Ash, Oak, and Fern, were supplied by UK manufacturer Trudomes and have been individually configured for short-stay accommodation. Each unit includes a king-sized bed, bunk beds, a kitchenette, a dining space with a log burner, an ensuite bathroom, and USB charging points.
Outdoor amenities include private hot tubs and fire pits, with additional hire options such as a pizza oven and plans for a projector system for outdoor film viewing.
Heather said: “We wanted an interior layout that gave you everything you needed to be warm and comfortable, yet also allows you to completely switch off and enjoy the beautiful views and outside space.
“It was also important for us to ensure that the sleeping areas were separate, so parents could have their own space, and the domes could also double up for couples.
“There’s lots of nice treats you can hire as well, including a pizza oven and, shortly, a projector for watching your favourite film.”
Pont Tyweli Glamping is currently taking bookings directly through its website and via Airbnb, and is also listed on platforms such as Host Unusual and Parent-Friendly Stays.
Barney noted that the project required extended planning and construction timelines, including approximately two years of planning applications before development progressed to completion.
“It has been a real rollercoaster, but we both believe we’ve created something that is very special and will hopefully become a place people return to time and time again for the relaxation, the views, the places to visit, and the unique setting of the domes.”
From an industry perspective, the project reflects ongoing trends in outdoor hospitality, including the continued growth of glamping accommodation, the use of modular dome structures, and the integration of multi-channel booking strategies that combine direct websites with OTA platforms. It also highlights the increasing role of remote work in enabling operators to transition into hospitality ventures while maintaining income streams during development phases.
The site provides access to regional attractions, including New Quay beach, Cardigan Castle, and walking routes across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, and Pembrokeshire. The opening adds to the expanding portfolio of experiential accommodation options in West Wales, where demand for short-stay rural tourism remains a key driver for new developments.
Pont Tyweli Glamping’s opening follows its completion phase in April, marking the start of its first full booking cycle.