Mam Cymru. The Mother of Wales. Whatever you call it, Anglesey – separated from the mainland only by the narrow Menai Strait – exhales Welsh heritage. Its rich history has been passed down from its Celtic, Viking, and medieval settlers, and it remains a predominantly Welsh-speaking island; so much so that you can almost feel the earth pulsate in time to ‘Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau’.
Anglesey isn’t yet overrun by luxury camping options. But head to the east side of the island, just outside Brynteg, and you’ll find that the hidden oasis of Anglesey Tipi and Yurts has got the glamping side of things covered.
Refreshingly, owners Charlie and Ela know that creating a great campsite takes more than just plonking a few yurts and tipis in a field and watching the cash roll in. This campsite is clearly a labour of love, a way of life, and their raison d’être. Not that they’d get complacent, of course. This is a constantly evolving, living, breathing campsite, and they work year-round to ensure that this peaceful haven keeps on improving.
The site itself is well thought-out and a delight to visit – the clearings are carved out of the wilderness to create five tranquil spaces. Charlie and Ela are attentive hosts, and consideration for their campers is evident throughout; there are wheelbarrows on hand to transport your weekend bags, and delicious home-grown veg is available to buy on site. Ela’s recently honed weaving skills have been put to good use in creating a winding tunnel for kids to run through, and there’s a patch of woodland left just wild enough for you to feel like you’re the first person to discover it.
There are two tipis and three yurts dotted around the main camping space. Inside each, you’ll find plenty of cooking implements, plus enough fluffy cushions and sheepskin rugs to make your dwelling delightfully welcoming. Each yurt has a wood-burning stove, and each tipi has a small BBQ, plus there’s a communal fire pit and sheltered area where campers gather come dusk.
They get extra brownie points for their eco credentials, too. Recycling? Check. Compost loo? Check. Anglesey Tipi and Yurt Holidays is the camping equivalent to chicken noodle soup; it’s a great pick-me-up, and you feel a whole lot better after trying it. This is sustainable camping for peace-seeking visitors, and the best way to discover what makes it so magical is to come and soak up the ambience yourself.
The site might be a fair way out of town, but that just adds to its charming nature. Once you’ve snuggled into a woodland hammock, leaving the site will be the last thing on your mind. But for some truly breathtaking views, the Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path is worth tearing yourself away for, as you’ll find scores of sweeping sandy beaches and towering cliffs.
