Quabbs Cabin, a rural glamping retreat in Mid Wales, has been awarded the Quality Assured Glamping Site gold award from Visit Wales less than a year after opening.
Located on a sheep farm at Rhos y Meirch near Knighton, the site opened earlier in 2023 and has since positioned itself as a sustainable destination for nature-focused travelers.
The accommodation was developed by Paul and Steph MacDonald, who combined skills in construction, geography, and conservation to bring the project to life.
The build took three years to complete, during which time they documented progress on social media, attracting around 5,000 Instagram followers. That online presence has converted into bookings since opening.
The Visit Wales assessor’s report described the project as a “labour of love build” and highlighted the attention to detail both inside and outside the cabin.
“The first impression on arrival, particularly today, when the flowers were in full bloom, was excellent with something interesting, quirky, unique and bespoke to look at every turn, both inside and out,” the report stated.
“It’s clear that the owners are passionate about the cabin and the area and really want to show it off. The cabin certainly offers a ‘wow’ factor, with no expense having been spared.”
Steph and Paul said the recognition is both rewarding and motivating.
“We are both delighted and humbled to achieve the gold award, which is validation for all our hard work and shows that our passion project is going in the right direction. Importantly, we must now maintain the gold standard,” they told BusinessNewsWales.
The site features a handmade bed overlooking meadows, a copper bath, a wood-fired hot tub, and a wraparound porch. Guests are also encouraged to explore the surrounding biodiversity, with opportunities to spot red kites and other wildlife.
For business owners in the outdoor hospitality sector, Quabbs Cabin’s story highlights the potential impact of combining sustainability with authentic storytelling.
The MacDonalds’ use of social media not only built anticipation but also created a customer pipeline prior to launch.
Their success reflects a growing consumer interest in eco-conscious stays and demonstrates how small, independently operated sites can differentiate themselves in a competitive market.
Quabbs Cabin is also a member of MWT Cymru, which represents over 600 tourism and hospitality businesses across Mid Wales.