In the enchanting landscapes of Carmarthenshire, a new trend is emerging that elevates the traditional girls’ weekend beyond bubbly toasting and late-night gossip. Instead, groups of women are now flocking to this picturesque Welsh region for enriching experiences that blend creativity, wellbeing, and camaraderie. My friend Anna and I recently embarked on one of these special getaways, aptly named “The Sisterhood,” curated by Discover Carmarthenshire, and it was nothing short of transformative.
A Beautifully Crafted Experience
Arriving in the charming market town of Llandeilo, our senses were immediately captivated by the delightful aroma of hand-poured candles wafting from the Little Welsh Dresser, one of the local arts and crafts shops. This vibrant town, known for its exquisite Dinefwr wool blankets and a plethora of galleries, was the perfect backdrop for our adventure. Among the array of handmade items, we were particularly drawn to a mug embossed with the Welsh word “Cwtch.” Pronounced “kutch,” it embodies a feeling of warmth and belonging—just what we sought for our weekend together.
Our stay was centred at Ardderfin Farmhouse, a rustic stone cottage just outside historic Carmarthen. With its clawfoot bath and inviting fireplace, it felt like a scene straight out of a film. Here, we began our journey into art and self-discovery, far removed from the typical indulgent weekends of old.
Unearthing Creativity with Local Artisans
On Saturday, we ventured into the hills to meet Yoka Kilkelly, affectionately known as the “Dutch potter on the hill.” Her Siramik pottery studio, nestled within a converted barn on a sheep farm, was a haven for creativity. As we delved into the art of pottery, Yoka taught us the fundamentals of wedging clay—an essential process that involves kneading the material to ensure it’s ready for shaping. “No potter has bingo wings,” Yoka quipped, as we worked up a sweat trying to replicate her effortless technique.
Under her guidance, my clay morphed into coffee cups while Anna fashioned a delightful bowl. The act of creating was both a mindful practice and a journey of self-expression, solidifying our bond as we shared laughter and the occasional moment of frustration.
Later, we took a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores of the Tywi estuary, with the ancient Llansteffan Castle standing sentinel on the hill above us. As the sun began to set, it painted the sky in hues of pink, and Anna, an avid birdwatcher, eagerly scanned for local wildlife, capturing the beauty of the moment through her lens.
Connecting Through Mindfulness and Craft
Our next activity brought us back to Ardderfin, where we welcomed Lowri Johnston, a yoga teacher and organic flower farmer. After a calming session of yoga, we indulged in a delightful craft of making willow wreaths adorned with ivy, eucalyptus, and seasonal flowers. “This practice connects us to the land and the seasons,” Lowri explained, sharing insights into the Welsh concept of chwaeroliaeth, or sisterhood.
As we worked with the pliable willow, it became clear that our weekend was not just about the crafts we were producing, but also about the deep connections we were forming. Later, we enjoyed a sumptuous picnic dinner, complete with homemade meatballs and ginger cake, as we relaxed by the fire, enveloped in warmth and shared stories that stretched late into the night.
A Creative Finale
On our final day, rain drizzled softly as we made our way to meet Elen Bowen, a former primary school teacher turned jeweller. Her silver and gold workshops, held in her home, were a testament to her newfound passion ignited by motherhood. Elen’s journey into jewellery-making had garnered her acclaim, culminating in her crafting the crown for the National Eisteddfod.
Under her expert guidance, Anna and I hammered, soldered, and polished our creations, each piece reflecting our unique personalities. Afterward, we savoured bowls of her homemade cawl, a traditional Welsh stew that was as comforting as the experience itself.
As we prepared to leave, we embraced every woman we’d met during our weekend. Reflecting on the mug that encapsulated “cwtch,” I realised this getaway was more than just a creative escape; it was a reminder of the importance of connection, community, and the joy of crafting something meaningful together.
Why it Matters
The rise of curated experiences like Discover Carmarthenshire’s Sisterhood weekends signifies a shift in how women are choosing to spend their leisure time. Rather than opting for the usual nights out, women are increasingly seeking retreats that foster creativity, personal growth, and genuine connections. These experiences enrich lives and foster a sense of community, demonstrating the power of shared creativity and the beauty of sisterhood in today’s world.
