Dog-friendly Wales holiday pod named best destination for couples
Travel plans can sometimes feel uncertain, which is why a relaxing staycation can be the perfect answer. Wales offers plenty of hidden gems. One award-winning escape attracting attention is the Kites Nest - a unique glamping pod has been crowned by Sykes Cottages, winning the 2025 gold award for 'best for couples'.Set in the tranquil village of Pont-rhyd-y-groes in Ceredigion, The Kites Nest is far from your average glamping stay. Although it's a two hour and 45 minute drive away from Liverpool, the wooden pod offers stunning surrounding countryside views that are bound to be worth the drive.Built by award-winning company My Shire House, which appeared on Channel 4's George Clarke's Amazing Spaces, the property has been crafted to an exceptionally high standard using FSC graded timber including oak, larch and red cedar.READ MORE: I tried the Boots £14 K-beauty 'melting' collagen pads for 'glass skin'READ MORE: Elizabeth Arden's £40 anti-ageing cream reduced to £10 at BootsInside, there is a compact kitchen equipped with essentials for preparing meals, while a comfortable sitting area provides a place to unwind. The sleeping area features a cosy double bed, alongside a modern shower room.Outside, step onto the decking and you're greeted with panoramic views across rolling hills, valleys and woodland. The scenery creates a peaceful atmosphere that's hard to beat. Adding to the luxury feel is the Kites Nest's hidden private garden, where guests can soak in an opulent outdoor copper bath surrounded by nature.For couples inspired to book, a seven-night stay at The Kites Nest starts from around £800, with plenty of availability across the summer months.Those who have stayed in the Kites Nest have reviewed the property very highly. One visitor said: "We spent a week here to celebrate our 10 year anniversary, there's not much you need to bring from home. The hosts have thought of everything to make your stay comfortable. The Kites nest is beautiful and the views are breathtaking. The outside bath has hot water and not overlooked. It really is a little slice of paradise."Another visitor, praising the helpful hosts, said: "There hospitality during our stay at the Kite's Nest was best we have ever received. One day we hope to return and we will be recommending to others!! The Kite's Nest was a cute warming stay with amazing view and scenery in such a pretty part of Wales!! This will be something we will remember forever!! Thank you so much!!"A third guest gave the Kites Nest a five star rating and said: "Superb. We loved it so much we instantly booked for two weeks next year."Check it out here.Alternatively, this five star rated Welsh cottage is available to rent. The Pen Y Banc Llanfaredd near Builth Wells, Powys is a four bed single-storey cottage roughly a two and half hour drive from Liverpool.Another getaway not too far from Liverpool is this cosy cabin pod in St Asaph, Denbighshire, with stunning views of Snowdonia and beyond to Anglesey, The Offas Dyke Escape is perfect for a couple or a solo traveller.