I’ll never forget the drive down to our holiday spot in South Wales – we’d packed the car to the brim with wellies, board games, and enough snacks to feed a small army, only for the sat-nav to chuck a wobbly just past Newport. It rerouted us down a narrow lane that seemed to narrow further with every pothole, and before we knew it, we were proper lost, bumping along with sheep giving us side-eye from the verges. A quick squint at the phone map sorted it, but honestly, that little detour set the tone for the whole trip: stumbling on hidden gems by pure accident.

Pulling up to the gorgeous detached barn, I was buzzing with that proper holiday anticipation – you know, the bit where you imagine cosy evenings and cracking views. And blimey, it didn’t disappoint. First impressions? Stunning far-reaching views across the glorious countryside that had us all piling out of the car grinning like idiots. It’s one of those places designed to a really high spec, with three en-suite bedrooms and massive floor-to-ceiling windows in the lounge that make you feel like you’re floating in the landscape. And the private hot tub? Pure luxury after a day’s mooching about. Just over a mile from Llandegfedd Reservoir, it was perfect for our off-the-beaten-track vibe.

We didn’t bother with the big attractions straight off – nah, we let getting lost lead the way. First morning, aiming for a walk around the reservoir (brilliant for watersports, fishing, cycling, all that jazz), we took a wrong turn onto a tiny bridle path. Ended up at this secret little picnic spot by the water’s edge, hidden behind a copse of trees. No one else there – just us, a flask of tea, and kingfishers darting about. Felt like we’d gatecrashed nature’s private party. Laughed our heads off when we realised we’d walked right past a ‘no entry’ sign that was half-covered in ivy.

Next day, a wander towards Usk – that lovely market town on the River Usk with its indie shops and cracking cafes – turned into another happy accident. Missed the main road and found ourselves on a winding track leading to a tucked-away orchard. Proper hidden gem: gnarly old apple trees heavy with fruit, and a farm gate honesty box for scrumping a few windfalls. We picked a bagful, turned them into a rustic crumble back at the barn, and scoffed it in the hot tub as the sun dipped behind the hills. Who needs Michelin stars?

One evening, cycling back from the reservoir, we veered off down an unmarked lane and discovered a wee stone bridge over a babbling stream – the sort of spot you’d only find if you weren’t looking. Sat there with pasties from Usk’s bakery, watching the light dance on the water. That’s when I had a bit of a moment, you know? Staring out those huge lounge windows later, pint in hand, I thought: life’s too short for sticking to the map. Getting lost like that, unearthing these quiet corners of Monmouthshire, reminded me to loosen the reins a bit more often.

Our few days flew by in a haze of accidental adventures – no crowds, just us and South Wales’ best-kept secrets. If you’re after a proper escape, hunt down a barn like this and let the wrong turns work their magic. We’re already plotting a return.