Discover Ty Mam Mawr
Ty Mam Mawr (The House of the Great Mother) is an intimate off grid eco retreat centre.
She nestles deep in Cynwyd Forest high in the Berwyn Mountains of North Wales and is a fantastic venue for intimate events, workshops and residential retreats.
Ty Mam Mawr is a perfect place to leave the world (and your mind!) behind and sink deeply back into nature, reconnecting to your true self.
A secluded off grid low impact property surrounded by woodland and hills under clear skies with no light pollution. Fully self reliant in terms of water and power.
Deep peace pervades. Silence…with only the sounds of abundant nature.
Breathe fresh clean air and enjoy the medicine in the mountain spring water.
unplug ∙ recharge ∙ grow ∙ be
Find out moreBooking Availability
| M | T | W | T | F | S | S |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | ||
6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 |
20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 |
27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 |
| M | T | W | T | F | S | S |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 2 | |||||
3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |
10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 |
24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 |
| M | T | W | T | F | S | S |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 |
8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 |
15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 |
22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 |
29 | 30 | 31 |
Spaces & Accommodation
Centred around a magnificent modern straw bale roundhouse, accommodation is provided in two gorgeous yurts. There's a fully equipped kitchen in the log cabin with a small dining area plus a shower room/toilet and another smaller log cabin kitchenette with a compost loo and shower.
The roundhouse will very comfortably seat 20-25 people or to look at it another way, there's space for 8-10 yogis. Up to 6 guests can sleep in the roundhouse, whilst the yurts will accommodate a maximum of 12 guests between them.
Seats and fire bowls next to each yurt and a main central firepit near the roundhouse provide further communal spaces. The roundhouse and yurts are heated with wood burning stoves.
We may be 'off grid', but in terms of facilities you wouldn't know it! Plenty of hot water, a power shower, electricity in all the spaces and WiFi if required.
View Spaces and AccommodationThe Guestbook
Stunning location, wonderful hosts, sacred and beautiful energy. This has to be on you bucket list for places to escape too x
We had the absolute pleasure of running our first official retreat at Ty Mam Mawr and what an experience it was! Shayne and Nathan, who own this beautiful space, are…
I just held a breathwork and shamanic healing retreat at Ty Mam Mawr and it was a beautiful experience beginning to end. This review almost seems like I'm cheating writing…
Ty Mam Mawr is a truly high class off-grid eco retreat! Gorgeous yurts to stay in, stunning location. Shayne and Nathan are such warm and caring hosts. I can see…
I had the most incredible stay at Ty Mam Mawr - Shayne and Nathan were such warm and generous hosts. A group of us booked out the site for a…
-
Jen
We had a lovely time here. Shayne & Nathan are lovely and helpful hosts with clear knowledge on the local area with lots of suggestions of what you can do in the area. We loved the suggested walk we went on and we visited a local waterfall as suggested which was beautiful. All in all, we had a great experience here and have already recommend the place to put friends and family. Thank you for having us :) - 15 Feb 2019read moreread less
Victoria
Really fantastic place, very peaceful with beautiful views. Yurt was truly cosy, once the fire got going it was lovely and toasty despite being 1 degree outside. Hosts were super hospitable even when we got very very lost! Great facilities for cooking, eating and socialising. Very friendly dogs even came to say hello which was a lovely surprise! Already planning on coming back soon! - 30 Nov 2018read moreread less -
Gemma
We stayed in the bigger yert, and didnt use the log cabin at all expect for rubbish, as we wanted to experience off the grid living as much as possible. We cooked on the fire pit and heated food up in the stove. To do this you have to take your own cooking equipment. I'd also take an ex so you can go get your own logs. If you want to experience off the grid living but still want a bed and hot shower this place will defo give you that. Lovely views, it's quite privet, think we bumbed into the other guests twice all weekend. Only thing, don't expect a luxury shower, and take logs if you want to use the fire as they are not provided. The hosts were extremely nice and helpful. A letter in the cabin explaining what's near ie the water fall (didn't find out about that til the last day) and shop would have been helpful. Would highly recommend - 03 Jun 2019read moreread less -
Andrea
Yurt in a great location, peace and tranquillity reign. We were lucky enough to have perfect weather, otherwise some aspects of the accommodation could be challenging. The kitchen area is tiny- no oven, grill or microwave. A four ring gas hob does the lot.
If you take dogs there is a brilliant circular walk straight from base - 27 Mar 2022read moreread less
Liddy
We had an enchanting weekend staying in your incredible yurt and struggled to pull ourselves back to reality. We smiled in awe at the beauty of everything around us and felt super blissed out throughout the perfect weekend away. Nathan and Shayne, you were wonderful hosts and we love what you have got going on! We will be back for sure :) - 06 Jun 2016read moreread less -
Neil
Nathan was a fantastic host during or awesome 2 night stay. He had the Yurt already set in cosy mode for us when we arrived with the wood burner stoked and fairy lights twinkling allowing us to star gaze next to the fire pit from the get go! Despite waking up to some stormy weather the Yurt held strong and stayed dry providing the perfect place to kick back for the day, relax and escape a battering from the elements. When the weather held off we decided to venture out into the beautiful surroundings on one of Nathan's recommended walks through the nearby woodland and along the river giving some great views into Snowdonia. All in all an amazing place to stay wether staying close by or using the Yurt as a base to explore further afield, would love a sunny return in the future! Thanks again. - 14 Dec 2015read moreread less
Larry
Myself and my partner enjoyed the perfect Christmas in the yurt. Nathan was there to meet us in arrival and was very friendly & helpful. The yurt was as described, and then some, and the surroundings were even more stunning, and peaceful than we had hoped. Even storm Barbara's best efforts could not stop the yurt from being the perfect warm & cosy haven away from the usual Christmas madness. To this end, the addition of the timber sides on the decking (not pictured on the airbnb site) were very welcome! The cooking facilities & stove enabled me to whip up a successful, if somewhat alternative, Christmas dinner and the toilet facilities were very clean & functional. Although Nathan & Shayne's house is but a stone's throw away, the positioning of the yurt really did make us feel that we were in our own private hideaway, whilst all the while knowing that if we did need anything that we could take Nathan up on his offer to pop up to the house anytime. Our stay here was without doubt the most relaxing 3 day break we have ever had and we would highly recommend Nathan & Shayne's lovely little corner of the world to anybody who wants to get away from it all (p.s the wifi is very quick and reliable just in case you do need to contact the outside world). Thank you Nathan & Shayne for hosting our best Christmas yet, we will be back!! - 26 Dec 2016read moreread less -
Harriet
Shayne and Nathan's big yurt in the depths of rural north Wales is beautifully appointed and comfortable. Fire pit outside to warm the evenings and well equipped kitchen. Shayne and Nathan are incredibly considerate and welcoming hosts, without being in the slightest bit intrusive. The only downside for anyone with mobility issues are the high steps to access the big yurt. Otherwise, a dream for anyone wanting to soak up rural tranquility. - 26 Aug 2022read moreread less -
Shion
this beautiful yurt is truly outstanding. The facilities, yurt, cabin and shower room were created with such concern for everyone's comfort. The yurt is gorgeous and the little stove in there makes you feel so cozy and comfortable. I slept better for the nights we were there that I have in years. We'll be back. A sacred Haven of deep peace and wonder. Thank you x - 01 Oct 2017read moreread less
Laura
Fantastic stay in a beautiful Yurt. Nathan and Shayne are amazing hosts and made us feel welcome from the moment we arrived. The yurt is fantastic, cozy and well equipped. We'd planned on exploring more of the area but the lure of the yurt and the sunshine on the decking was too much for us to leave!
The new kitchen and shower room are lovely and made it a step above glamping. - 03 Aug 2017read moreread less -
Gwynn
The perfect retreat, just what we’ve been looking for! Ideal setting, in a peaceful countryside location, being a great base for visiting local attractions offered at nearby Bala, Llangollen, etc.
Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted by our charming and friendly hosts, Shayne & Nathan, who although busy on various projects, always had time for a chat and we were made to feel very welcome. It was inspirational to meet such wonderful people, who genuinely have love and respect for our world, and put it into practice.
Staying in the beautiful, genuine Mongolian yurt was a wonderful experience, we especially enjoyed using the wood stove – kept us very warm and cosy. Upon entering the yurt, your eyes will be drawn to the ornate roof supports and spectacular skylight. The yurt, which is beautifully furnished, is of such a high quality construction that even the sound of heavy rain is quite subdued, to an ambient, hypnotic background, which added to the experience.
We also enjoyed using the firepit, cooking tasty chargrilled steaks and baked potatoes. FYI, there is also a BBQ available for use and the Spar shop/post office is only a few minutes down the road, should you need any extra supplies. The kitchenette is situated directly opposite the yurt and is well stocked with cutlery, pots, pans, mugs, glasses, etc (but please remember to bring your own food, matches/lighters). The outdoor natural loo (which includes a shower), also opposite, is very easy to use.
The area is teeming with wildlife, including pheasants, squirrels and owls etc. Driving up the single track road, you frequently see wandering pheasants, who seem to want to lead you to your destination, in a comical “Pythonesque” fashion! Make sure you drive slowly, to respect the local wildlife and of course, the humans!
Definitely, worth a visit, we would highly recommend this wonderful gem of a retreat and will be venturing back again. Thanks Shayne & Nathan for a wonderful and relaxing stay. - 01 Oct 2021read moreread less
David
If you are Looking to stay in a Yurt in a great setting look no further. I have never stayed in a yurt before and I am totally blown away. With a wood burner it’s a beautiful cosy place to stay. There is a small wood a walk away and Llangollen is only 25 minutes away. Will be back again! - 08 Dec 2019read moreread less
Nicole
We had the most wonderful stay! The yurt was beautiful, and VERY clean. The bathroom and kitchen were really modern and spotless. Shayne and Nathan were really helpful and welcoming hosts and could not do enough to help us. After a reschedule due to Covid, we needed to take our 6month old puppy with us and he had the best time! Would definitely recommend staying here. - 26 Sep 2021read moreread less -
Martin
Our stay was perfectly timed for a nice warm Easter weekend. We were greeted by Shayne who was very attentive and made us feel at home. The yurt is lovely, just exactly what you expect, with nice views. What we really enjoyed was the birdsong, a range of finches but also woodpeckers, cuckoo and even a sighting of a sparrowhawk. There are some resident Pheasant families that will keep you amused for hours. Considering this is off grid it didn't feel like it in that electricity and wifi were good, the kitchen facilities spotless and the shower I have to say was beautifully hot and exceeded expectations when you consider everything is generated on site.
The location is high in the hills but a perfect base for travelling out. We went to Bala, Pwllheli, Rhyl, Chirk, Chester and Llangollen all in the space of a weekend and still had plenty of time left to chill out.
And for those worried about warmth in a yurt don't be. We did have a warm weekend but we still lit the woodburner in the evening, it is amazingly simple to use and gives a really satisfying warmth at bed time. - 22 Apr 2019read moreread less
Jennifer
The perfect place for couples fancying a romantic getaway or groups wanting exclusive use of the site. We travelled as a couple with two dogs and Nathan was more than accommodating for us all. An excellent host and very focussed on ensuring we had an enjoyable stay. On the first morning the pipes had frozen due to the snow resulting in the shower not being in use, but Nathan was apologetic and offered for us to shower in his home whilst he fixes the outdoor shower. He made sure the shower was up and running a few hours later so this caused no inconvenience whatsoever.
We enjoyed a lovely walk through the forest and the local town which was a mile down the road. There are a couple of pubs there which we never went in but seemed quiet and welcoming. Nathan lent us an OS map so we were able to navigate our way through the forest and along the river which made for a very enjoyable walk.
We can't wait to return again with our family in summer and take advantage of the decking area for BBQs and hopefully much nicer weather!! - 16 Jan 2017read moreread less - Briony Gunson
I had the most incredible stay at Ty Mam Mawr - Shayne and Nathan were such warm and generous hosts. A group of us booked out the site for a meditation retreat and it was the perfect setting to allow for such work to take place. Gorgeous scenery, beautiful, cosy yurts to stay in, a nearby waterfall that we walked down to and swam in! Adorable friendly pets - dogs and chickens! - that roamed around, sweetly interacting with us. And the site is clearly a labour of love - these stunning, eco-friendly structures. Oh and I mustn't forget Shayne's generous catering, covering both vegan and gluten free. I can't wait to come back and visit at a different time of year - see what that stunning scenery, with all its colour, what that looks like in different light. Getting to know Shayne and Nathan was delightful too. Cooking, meditation and deep conversation with Shayne, as well as sitting by the fire pit, with the almost full moon hanging over the hillside, chatting about life, the universe and everything with Nathan are all special memories. Thank you so much for creating such a blissful place for us to come and explore. Hope to see you all again soon! xx - 26 Jun 2019read moreread less
Yasmin
I didn't want to come home! As we drove up the steep incline to the yurt... My partner, daughter and I could not contain out excitement and we were not disappointed.... The view surrounding the yurt that came into view was spectacular.
We arrived to such a warm welcome from the host Nathan... He made us feel at home instantly. Inside the yurt, we discovered a very comfy double bed and sofa bed.... Already prepared with beautifully clean linen in keeping with the feel of the yurt. The facilities were rustic (compost toilet listening to chickens having a conversation) as I would expect in a glamping yurt.... But the hot electric shower and very useable camping stove made it rather posh really!
Our first evening was spent cooking a meal using stove and fire pit (we managed pulled pork with veg followed but baked banana with chocolate!). Then Nathan invited us for cider at his big fire pit. We spent a pleasant evening setting the world to rights.
My family then spent one of the best weeks of our lives!!!!!! I write that from the heart.
My little girl of 6years learnt to lay and start a fire, cooking toast on it every morning. We explored the local paths with both bikes and on foot. All views were beautiful. One evening, Nathan helpfully explained the best place to see the sunset and as a family we chased the sun! We also went out for many day trips! I can recommend Llangollen as a great day out (steam train, vintage shopping, castle, abbey and canal boats) and the local town of Corwan boasts the best curry house in Wales (we might have tried it one night... You don't want to cook every night!)....to name but one of many many things to do locally! Nathan is very knowledgable of the area and is able to give you tips on the best spots/beaches.
I asked my daughter what her best bits were... She said Nathan's animals (very friendly cats, dogs and chickens) and digging for treasure(bottles and china) out of one of Nathan's banks... Thanks for that Nathan... You made a little archeologist very happy!
The beautiful setting, homely yurt, friendly host and diversity of things to do locally...resulted in my little family having a holiday full of adventure... I can not recommend this wonderful yurt enough! - 26 Jul 2015read moreread less -
Harry
Staying in the yurt was a great experience of camping just more on the glamping side, that being you have a kitchen, bathroom and electricity. The hosts were nice and always replied to messages in a reasonable time. It is also in a good location with plenty of things to do nearby. - 15 Jan 2019read moreread less
Edward
Wow - how to sum up this place in words? We had the most amazing weekend ... beautiful countryside, incredible facilities and lovely people. Nathan and Shayne were fantastic hosts - just the right balance of friendliness (we spent the first evening and a lovely walk together) and privacy (we were never disturbed otherwise). The yurt itself - and the newly built kitchen and shower room - far exceeded our expectations, even after we'd seen all the pictures. The hosts really have thought of everything - the yurt is warm and cosy (especially when using the log burner) and the adjacent block has literally everything you could want for a totally self-reliant stay. We even made a roast dinner, just the same as we would at home. There are tons of activities (walking, swimming, cycling) on the door step and the hosts' knowledge of the area was so helpful in terms of planning our stay. Nathan and Shayne have created a true idyl up here in the Welsh hills. Rarely have we felt so relaxed and at ease on our holiday, in part due to the countryside and facilities, but mainly due to the wonderful ambiance that Nathan and Shayne have created for themselves and others. The music was also a definite bonus - excellent taste! - and we left feeling fully rejuvenated and ready to tackle life again. We also feel that we have made a couple of really amazing friends, who we sincerely hope to see again in the future. Nathan and Shayne's outlook on life is so refreshing and has given us a lot to think about going forwards. We want to thank them for an incredible experience, and all their hospitality throughout - nothing is too much trouble for them and I recommend staying here in the strongest possible terms! I've now ran out of adjectives to describe how lovely the place and hosts are, so I'll leave it there. In short, stay here and you won't be disappointed. Thanks again guys! - 29 May 2017read moreread less - Emma Groves
We had the absolute pleasure of running our first official retreat at Ty Mam Mawr and what an experience it was! Shayne and Nathan, who own this beautiful space, are the most helpful and gracious owners. From start to finish they assisted us wherever we needed, from frequent phone calls on the lead up to the retreat, to providing recipes and even cooking our whole group a delicious meal on the last night x Shayne and Nathan what you have created together is absolutely awe inspiring and I cannot recommend this place enough to others. Mickey and I will be back for sure and I know we have made friends for life in Shayne and Nathan. So much love to you both ♥️ ♥️ ♥️ - 04 Sep 2019read moreread less - Belinda Ray
Delight-filling Paradise on Earth.... Ty Mam Mawr - House of The Great Mother, has clearly been created with great love and vision by Nathan and Shayne. A beautiful and beautifully constructed sacred retreat centre... built to serve, inspire, evolve and grow, far into the future.
Mother Nature's Blessings on this place are palpable.
Only just completed, the roundhouse and surrounding yurts and cabins already feel like sacred community... hosted by the warmth and dynamic creativity of Shayne, Nathan and their dogs, chickens and cats.
I was lucky enough to attended Ty Mam Mawr's first retreat .... it was superb. The life force energy here is powerful and clear. The facilities are impressive - and admirably, all off grid. This place just can't help creating community. And.... the setting and views are magical. You'll see! I highly recommend many visits... for holidays and group retreats.
Ty Mam Mawr has so much to offer us, and, so much to ask of us. She's alive and happening! I sense that she's going to play a significant role in the lives of many. Thanking you Ty Mam Mawr with All My Heart. X - 08 Sep 2017read moreread less
Adam
Wonderful stay for a group of friends looking to escape the city. Pretty awful weather, but the yurts were lovely and warm - very cosy with the fire. Pub is about 20-25 mins walk downhill (longer on the way back!) - good pub food for when you don't fancy cooking. Great communication before and during our stay. Very much given our privacy while there. - 13 Mar 2022read moreread less -
Danny
If you're looking for somewhere seemingly in the middle of nowhere yet not actually that far from civilization then this is spot on. Loved the off-grid living aspect and the yurt is super cosy and cute. The new kitchen /shower unit adds to that 'more luxury than camping' feeling. Will definitely be returning at some point in the future! - 26 Aug 2017read moreread less
Kate
Two of us stayed in the larger yurt for 3 nights: it was a beautiful and luxurious space with lovely attention to detail. We stayed when it was wet, windy and cold, and had a great time, cosy in the yurt with the fire going. We couldn't believe how warm we were - hardly left it except for a walk through the forests and into the empty mountains! The compost loo and the little outdoor kitchen just meters away were really convenient, and the main kitchen and bathroom was only a few steps up the hill when needed. Shayne and Nathan were welcoming and on hand if needed for advice. One tip, if it's cold weather, take slippers so your feet stay warm in the kitchen and bathroom :-) - 06 Jan 2018read moreread less -
William
I stayed here for three nights with my wife and our two small dogs. It was my 65th birthday weekend and I wanted something a bit different for the special occasion. The property is easy to find and in a really accessible location, but still away from it all. We had everything we needed to make our weekend very comfortable. The adjoining kitchen / dining room is very well equipped and very roomy. Plenty of storage space and food preparation surfaces. The shower room / WC has everything you need. The highlight of the stay though was the yurt. Plenty of room for two humans plus two hounds. And, when the wood-burning stove was lit, it was really warm and cosy. We experienced three cold nights there, but the stove kept us very comfortable. The immediate area has lots of good walks to keep the dogs happy. And, the Blue Lion down the hill in Cynwyd makes an excellent Sunday roast. It's dog-friendly too in the bar area. We are pleased to see how Nathan and Shayne have developed their property to make it very eco-friendly and off-the-grid. We both appreciate making minimal impact in our holiday choices and this property certainly ticked all the boxes for us. I can certainly recommend this property and hope to return again in the near future. Thank you Nathan and Shayne!! - 22 Nov 2021read moreread less
Josephine
We give this place a ten out of ten, it ticked every box. We were not after a boozy party weekend, so if that’s what your after you would be wasting your time. Set up in a beautiful rural area of Wales, we stayed in one of the yurts with all the necessities we could need. The weather was miserable at times which all added to the experience, our own log burner inside to keep us warm after amazing walks in the hills and deep forests.
We didnt see a soul on our walks, the site is literally the last sign of civilisation before you enter the woods. From start to finish we couldn’t have asked for better hosts, they literally couldn’t have done anymore for us. Lovely people, thanks you so much for making us feel so welcome, I loved my surprise birthday weekend.
I recommend this place ten fold to anyone wanting to get a break away from the fast paced city life, who want there own chill spot with adventures all around. Also there was a mention of reservoirs very close by which we will take a walk to next time we go!!! Can’t wait. - 20 Dec 2020read moreread less
Lee
This place is stunning. The yurt sits 400m above a sleepy Welsh village called Cynwyd. We arrived in the evening and woke up to gorgeous views, all covered in snow. Our hosts made sure we had everything we needed, and firewood was cheap and readily available for the stove in our yurt, keeping our stay cosy. Only a short 50 minute drive to Snowdonia national park, I fully recommend this as a place to stay if you'd like to climb Snowdon. Will definitely come back. - 11 Nov 2019read moreread less -
Rachel
Totally secluded & remote spot. The yurt is an incredible structure & super cosy (we stayed in November) The cob round house is stunning. It's obvious that a lot of graft has gone into planning and creating this space - respect to Shayne & Nathan for their amazing efforts there.
Bit of advice if you're planning a trip here... the hosts send a link to a video on how everything works (off-grid & eco), it's a long video but try to watch it through to the end because it explains how to get hot water, then you won't be having a cold shower, like me! (the hot water works fine, I'm just an idiot) - 06 Nov 2024read moreread less
Tamsin
My partner and I chose to stay here for our anniversary. We were especially excited about the view and it didn't disappoint! Stunning morning through to the night. We even saw fireworks over the valley! The space itself was spacious and had everything we needed. We thought the local OS map was great! And definely enjoyed a few local walks. The yurt was very warm with the fire on... Just make sure it stocked up before bed. Our stay was in November so a little cold is to be expected! Shayne and Nathan were great hosts. Nathan helped us check and ensured we had all we needed. Overall I would recommend to anyone looking for a quiet break in a stunning location. - 06 Nov 2017read moreread less
Mags
We had a wonderful relaxing getaway here. The yurt is a beautiful space, romantic, comfortable and cosy. It's very quiet and the stars were amazing! We enjoyed walking in the Berwyn mountains and swimming/kayaking on Lake Bala.
Nathan was very welcoming and helpful, telling us about local walks and lending us a map.
The kitchen is well equipped and it's handy having a private loo right next to the yurt. I loved it here and wished we were staying longer. - 05 Sep 2018read moreread less 
Events
Find out more about forthcoming events at Ty Mam Mawr eco retreat centre and see what we've been up to previously.
Whether you'd like to hold an hours yoga class, a one day dance workshop or a week long meditation retreat this is just the venue for you.
Whether you book the retreat centre or just the roundhouse, we can list your forthcoming event here and on our social media pages. Every little bit helps when it comes to making connections.
Latest EventsLocation
Ty Mam Mawr eco retreat centre nestles deep in Cynwyd Forest high in the Berwyn Mountains above the Dee Valley in North Wales and is a fantastic off grid venue for intimate events, workshops and residential retreats.
Only an hour or so from Manchester, Liverpool or Birmingham. It's easy to get here...but you won't want to leave!
Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is on the doorstep and Snowdonia National Park just 20 minutes away.
Much of North Wales and especially the Berwyn mountains are associated with King Arthur and many other Welsh legends. This is an ancient and special land where nature and spirit are within easy reach when you choose them.
How to find us












