✅ How to book your XL Escape

Red Dog Retreat manages all bookings for their home directly through their own website. For availability, pricing, and full booking details, visit 👉 https://www.reddog-retreat.co.uk/booking

Kim & Chris Ewen

We are SO excited to welcome you to our home! As the founders of XL Escapes, we pour our hearts into creating a space where you can relax, unwind, and make lasting memories.

With two rescue dogs—Holly from Bosnia and Buddy from All Bullie Rescue—and Nala, our beautiful ginger cat (and undisputed Queen of the house), we understand how important it is to feel not just at home, but truly content and relaxed—especially when traveling with your furry companions.

Our goal is to offer more than just a holiday; we want to provide a home away from home where you can escape daily pressures, have a laugh, and enjoy quality time with loved ones. Whether it’s a cosy night in, exploring the local area, or simply making time for yourself, we’re here to make your stay special.

If you have any requests—big or small—just let us know. We’re always happy to help (and we love an excuse to bring a smile to your face, drink in hand, of course!).

Cancellation Policy

We understand that plans can change, and we’ve designed our cancellation policy to be as fair and transparent as possible.

If You Need to Cancel

More than 5 weeks before arrival: You’ll receive a full refund, including your deposit.
5 weeks or less before arrival:
- 5 weeks or less: 30% of the booking is charged.
- 4 weeks or less: 40% of the booking is charged.
- 3 weeks or less: 60% of the booking is charged.
- 2 weeks or less: 85% of the booking is charged.
- 1 week or less: 100% of the booking is charged.

How Refunds Work

If you’re entitled to a refund, it will be processed promptly and returned via the same method of payment.

Need Assistance?

If you have any concerns or extenuating circumstances, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help and will always try to find a solution that works for you.

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Payment Details
At XL Escapes, we strive to make the booking process as straightforward and secure as possible. Here’s how it works:
Deposits

A 20% deposit is required within 7 days of booking to secure your stay.

XL Escapes Booking Fee

We charge a small 5% booking fee, which is significantly lower than other major platforms.

Remaining Balance

The remaining balance, including any refundable breakage deposit (if applicable), must be paid 4 weeks before your check-in date.

Secure Payments with Stripe
All payments are processed through Stripe Connect, a trusted and secure platform. Your funds are safely held with Stripe until after your check-out date. This extra layer of protection ensures peace of mind for both guests and hosts. Your payment details are always handled securely, so you can book with confidence.

Check-in and Check-out

Check-in: 4 PM
Check-out: 10 AM
We can’t guarantee early check-ins or late check-outs, but our housekeeping team will update us on their progress. If the property is ready early, you can let yourself in. Similarly, if no one is arriving immediately after, a later check-out might be possible—just message us on the day to check availability.

Pets

Dogs of all breeds and sizes are welcome. 🐾
The garden is fully enclosed to keep your furry friends safe.

Hot Tub

The hot tub is for your exclusive use. It will be freshly cleaned and ready when you arrive. Please follow the usage guidelines provided in the welcome book to ensure it remains in top condition.

Parking

Parking is strictly on the driveway only.
Do not park on the grass or the private road, which is also used by neighbours.

Gatherings and Events

Small, private gatherings are welcome, but parties are not allowed.
Be respectful of the property and neighbours during your stay.

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What’s included in the booking?

We provide:

Fresh bedding and towels
Tea, coffee, sugar, sweetener, and coffee pods
A raw doggy hamper (treat your furry friends!) 🐾
Dog-friendly essentials like bowls, poo bags, and towels
A welcome hamper to make you feel right at home
Access to the luxury hot tub

What amenities are nearby?

Owl and Otter Gastro Pub and Restaurant: A 10-minute walk away. Dog-friendly with great food, cocktails, and a beer garden boasting stunning views of the Derwentside Valley.
Boutique cafes: Two charming cafes just a short walk from The Chase.
Local shops: Two within walking distance and larger supermarkets only a 10-minute drive away.

What are some recommended activities nearby?

Beamish Open-Air Museum: A dog-friendly, fantastic day out for all ages. Explore history, meet animals, and enjoy a unique experience.
More local attractions: Ask us for our Local Recommendations Guide before booking to discover even more options in the area.

Can I book The Chase for special events?

Yes! If you’re planning a small celebration or gathering, let us know so we can help accommodate your plans. Please note that large parties are not allowed.

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Meet Your Hosts

Cooper, is a 6-year-old Vizslador and our first reactive dog. He is the reason we moved to rural Wales and is our inspiration behind Red Dog Retreat. We realise now that as dog owners we were a bit clueless! Our first dog, Barkley, a miniature labradoodle, is one of those dogs who you can take anywhere, introduce him to anyone (dog and human) and he is fine with everything. We thought most dogs were like that. Along came our gorgeous Cooper, and in addition to being a COVID lockdown puppy, he had a couple of bad experiences with dogs and people at the wrong age which led him to become more and more anxious and reactive. Realising we were out of our league, we contacted a wonderful local behaviourist, who swept in to help. She taught us so much about positive reinforcement, how to help Cooper live his best life and how we needed to adapt as owners. It wasn’t about changing him so he would fit into our life, it was about us changing to fit into his and to allow him to lead as happy and stress-free life as possible. We soon learnt that normal life can be challenging with a very big reactive dog but we were determined to still enjoy holidays together with him. We found that true reactive dog friendly holiday locations are few and far between but when you find one that works, where you can all decompress and relax, it is pure magic. We relocated to Mid-Wales in March 2024 to ensure Cooper had as much access as possible to quiet, rural, trigger free walks and with the dream of starting our own reactive dog holiday cottage. We wanted a truly dog centred business that warmly welcomed all breeds and all personalities. Planning permission was finally granted in Summer 2025 and after 18months of seriously hard work, we are now fully open for guests. We look forward to sharing this wonderful, slice of heaven, with you. Nikki and Chris

XL Escapes Peace Of Mind Promise

Every business you see on XL Escapes has confirmed to us that they welcome XL Bullies. Before being listed, we ask the questions we’d want answered ourselves — from real experience living and travelling with XL and reactive dogs. That includes confirming they are happy to host XL Bullies, that their listing details are accurate, and that they’ve considered their own legal and insurance responsibilities. We don’t assume. We don’t guess. We ask — and they confirm. If anything changes or a business doesn’t stand by what they’ve told us, we take it seriously. If a business listed on XL Escapes turns you away because of your dogs breed, contact us. We will review it, remove them if necessary, and refund your membership.

Cancellation Policy

Home Rules & Useful Information

Red Dog Retreat

⚲ Tylwch, Powys, Wales

4 guests · 2 bedrooms · 1 bathroom · 3 beds · Up to 3 dogs welcomed (additional dogs considered by prior arrangement) · Fully enclosed garden · Additional enclosed woodland area (approx. ½ acre) · 6ft perimeter fencing · Reactive dog friendly · All breeds welcomed · No additional dog charges

Red Dog Retreat offers a bespoke haven in the heart of rural Wales, meticulously designed to offer reactive and anxious dogs, and their people, a sanctuary amidst breathtaking scenery. Total peace of mind with our 6ft perimeter fencing. We provide a completely enclosed space, where even the most anxious dogs can enjoy the freedom of the outdoors without any unexpected visitors or concerns. We prioritise your dog’s wellbeing from the moment you pull into the private driveway. Our self check in and option of arranging a food delivery prior to arrival, ensure a smooth start to your break.

Book Now

Full Property Description:

For the Four Legged Guests: Outdoor dog shower Dog essentials provided- towels, blankets and bowls Additional freezer space available for raw feeders Perimeter fencing all 6ft 6ft fenced garden area Additional fenced woodland (approximately 1/2 acre) Double, 'buffer', fencing on boundaries shared with our property Road fencing all closed board, as well as several other areas Dogs allowed on furniture/ beds Private entrance to property Crate available and ability to leave dogs at the accommodation for short periods Welcome treats Many quiet and peaceful walks in the surrounding area No additional charges for dogs For the Two Legged Guests: Log cabin sleeping 4 (1 king bed and 1 double) Hairdryer Towels Log burner with plentiful supply of our own wood Bathroom with shower for the humans Open plan kitchen, lounge, diner Key safe check in- no need to interact with us Internet access Smart TV Bluetooth speaker Detailed walk guide of our favourite walks, listing potential triggers Option to book a food delivery to arrive, and be unpacked by us before your arrival Fixed price all year The Space Outside: Parking for two cars The Cow Shed, providing additional freezer space, bike storage and wood storage Outside covered area Fire pit Gas BBQ Outdoor kitchen with coal BBQ Stunning views Not overlooked or overlooking any neighbouring properties

About This Listing

This property is owned and managed by the host. The information below is provided by the property owner and confirmed as accurate by them.
XL Escapes publishes this information to help guests make informed decisions and does not own or manage this property.

Full Property Description:

For the Four Legged Guests: Outdoor dog shower Dog essentials provided- towels, blankets and bowls Additional freezer space available for raw feeders Perimeter fencing all 6ft 6ft fenced garden area Additional fenced woodland (approximately 1/2 acre) Double, 'buffer', fencing on boundaries shared with our property Road fencing all closed board, as well as several other areas Dogs allowed on furniture/ beds Private entrance to property Crate available and ability to leave dogs at the accommodation for short periods Welcome treats Many quiet and peaceful walks in the surrounding area No additional charges for dogs For the Two Legged Guests: Log cabin sleeping 4 (1 king bed and 1 double) Hairdryer Towels Log burner with plentiful supply of our own wood Bathroom with shower for the humans Open plan kitchen, lounge, diner Key safe check in- no need to interact with us Internet access Smart TV Bluetooth speaker Detailed walk guide of our favourite walks, listing potential triggers Option to book a food delivery to arrive, and be unpacked by us before your arrival Fixed price all year The Space Outside: Parking for two cars The Cow Shed, providing additional freezer space, bike storage and wood storage Outside covered area Fire pit Gas BBQ Outdoor kitchen with coal BBQ Stunning views Not overlooked or overlooking any neighbouring properties

Paw of Approval

Photos from real stays, with dogs who gave it their paw of approval.

Got a question about this holiday home?

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Amenities:

Dog-Friendly Details That Matter

Red Dog Retreat was created specifically for reactive and anxious dogs, by owners who understand the challenges of finding genuinely suitable places to stay. * They warmly welcome all breeds, including XL Bullies, and there are no additional charges for dogs. * They can accommodate up to 3 dogs, with additional dogs considered by prior arrangement. They provide: * Dog towels * Blankets * Water bowls * Welcome treats * A dog crate * Additional freezer space for raw feeders * An outdoor dog shower * The owners have gone to great lengths to create a secure environment, including double buffer fencing between the retreat and their own property, solid closed-board fencing along road-facing boundaries, and chicken wire fitted along the bottom of the deer fencing to help prevent escapes. * Dogs are welcome on the furniture and beds. If your dog likes to sleep under the covers, the owners simply ask that you bring your own bedding. * Guests are provided with a detailed guide to local walks, including information about potential triggers along each route. * The retreat is private, not overlooked by neighbouring properties and has its own entrance, helping dogs and owners settle in without unnecessary interactions. * The owners' own reactive dog, Cooper, was the inspiration behind Red Dog Retreat, and every part of the experience has been designed with reactive and sensitive dogs in mind.

Neighbourhood Overview:

Red Dog Retreat is tucked away in the heart of rural Mid Wales, surrounded by beautiful countryside, forestry and peaceful walking routes. The area is ideal for guests looking to escape busy tourist hotspots and enjoy a slower pace of life with their dogs. There are numerous quiet walks nearby, making it a great location for reactive or anxious dogs who prefer space and fewer encounters. Popular local destinations include the stunning Elan Valley, Hafren Forest and Clywedog Reservoir, all offering miles of scenic walking opportunities. The nearby market town of Llanidloes has a selection of dog-friendly cafés and independent businesses, while the surrounding countryside provides breathtaking views, wildlife spotting opportunities and plenty of places to explore together. Whilst the retreat enjoys a peaceful rural setting, guests should be aware that this is a working farming area. You may occasionally see livestock in neighbouring fields and hear farm machinery or working dogs during the day. Red Dog Retreat is just next door to where we live so you are likely to hear us going about our daily life, however you will not see us.