I’ve spent my birthdays in various locations around the world, with the previous few being no exception, from New York in 2017, Netherlands in 2018 and now in 2019 in stunning Wales.

This trip came about as part of a joint birthday celebration between some of India’s family members, who were celebrating a joint 30th and the dates of the trip just happened to fall on my slighter higher numbered birthday.

The barn was selected due to its size, location and the ability to cater to everyone involved.

Based just outside Pen Y Bont Fawr, in the shadows of the Berwyn Mountains, Upper Valley Farm House and Barn (Cwmwr Uchaf in Welsh) is a stunning location, surrounded by outstanding beauty.

The Barn option, that we hired for a long weekend, hosts 6 bedroom and dining facilities for up to 18. Our party consisted of 11 Adults, 2 Children and 2 Dogs and you had enough space to spread out and relax.

With a long dining table there was plenty of room for food and drink, although the kitchen was a little tight when cooking for so many, I think its the first time I’ve managed to control my urge to take over in a kitchen environment and for everyone sake, sat there and tried reviewing a few new gins (and what a great setting for such a task).

WiFi throughout the barn also meant that I could keep in touch with all the goings on elsewhere including that weekends football scores (Very Important!)

Upstairs was a cinema area with large TV, which apart from keeping the younger members of the party occupied at certain times, wasn’t really needed, but is nice to have if required.

Also upstairs was a beautiful lounge area, perfect for evenings, especially with the wood burner lit, it wasn’t a terribly cold weekend, but with a storm blowing was a little wet and windy, the fire provided more than enough heat to keep inside cosy.

The Barn is also equipped with an outdoor spa, which I have to admit to not trying, maybe a few degrees warmer and less rain I may have been tempted to enjoy a glass of bubbles in it too, however those that did try it out loved it.

Whilst in such a stunning area, we also took the opportunity to take a few strolls. The first night we opted for a short walk, designed to take around 30-40 mins, unfortunately mistaken one path for another led to a 2 hours trek, but on such a lovely evening and with such beauty around you, it was a pleasure for the more able in the party.

We also took a drive out to Bala Lake and lunch at Bryntirion Inn, a small country pub that is also super dog friendly, with its own dog filled fame wall.

The service and welcome was so good, we decided to re-book for a Sunday lunch, when again the hospitality we were shown was second to none. You can check it out yourself by viewing their website here.

One downside was the weather on the last full day – we took a short drive to Lake Vyrnwy, which looked stunning, however with the heavens opened we couldn’t really enjoy it for what it was.

The Barn really did create a home away from home, with space for all to relax and enjoy a weekend in comfort. If you would like more details or to enquire for yourself, their website is here