PLANS have been unveiled by an Aberystwyth company to launch a new boutique hotel that will ‘pop-up’ at three secret, breath-taking locations across Wales next year.

It’s all part of Epic Retreats, a completely unique hotel that will celebrate Wales’ Year of Legends 2017 by allowing people to enjoy the best landscapes and experiences Wales has to offer while staying in one of eight bespoke cabins, designed specifically for the project.

Epic Retreats has unveiled designs of the high-quality ‘boutique’ cabins that have been inspired by Wales’ legends and its past – from the country’s famous industrial heritage to the story of King Arthur.

The designs were chosen through a competition tender which invited architects from across the world to design unique glamping units themed on the mythology, tradition and beauty of Wales.

Two of the chosen designers are from Wales. Aberystwyth-based Timber Design Wales has started work on a unit inspired by the dragon’s eye while Newcastle Emlyn’s Rural Office for Architecture Ltd is creating a cabin inspired by a Welsh lady’s hat complete with a domed roof for stargazing.

The Epic Retreats project is a partnership between Best of Wales, Cambria Tours and George + Tomos Architects, and is part funded by the Welsh Government’s Tourism Product Innovation Fund.

Best of Wales director Llion Pughe said: “We are thrilled to announce the designs for the Epic Retreats pop-up glamping units.

“With three incredible locations, an exciting programme of activities and eight unique buildings, Epic Retreats will celebrate the best Wales has to offer during 2017 - the Year of Legends.

“Our passion for Wales and its history has provided a great source of inspiration for this project and we look forward to giving guests the opportunity to wake up to Wales in the country’s first ever boutique pop-up glamping hotel.”

Ken Skates, Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Infrastructure, has welcomed the plans for Epic Retreats, saying:

“The addition of our first pop-up glamping hotel creates additional potential to attract visitors from far and wide to experience our amazing landscape and heritage.”