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Discover how a capsule from the 2012 Olympics was transformed into the Spodnic UFO, the UFO Hotel that is a sensation in Wales with a NASA theme.
An old industrial structure, which served as a shelter for generators during the London 2012 Olympic Games, found a surprising fate in the southwest of Wales.
Currently, the object has been converted into the UFO Hotel, named Spodnic UFO, a themed accommodation that simulates the landing of a flying saucer amidst nature.
The project is signed by Martin Johnson and his wife, CarolAnne, who transformed a four-acre plot in Pembrokeshire into a luxury camping (glamping) destination focused on immersive and playful experiences.
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The distinguishing feature of this accommodation is the technological realism. To enter the spacecraft, visitors use a retractable door system and elevator that, when activated, releases a curtain of smoke and colored lights.
According to Martin, the idea is to create a setting where “aliens can appear at any moment,” providing an unforgettable visual impact, especially for children who arrive at the site unaware of the surprise.
NASA Technology and Stargazing
The interior of the UFO Hotel was designed to be as impactful as its silver facade. With walls that utilize multi-layer thermal insulation — the same technology used in real spacecraft — the environment maintains thermal comfort while immersing guests in aerospace aesthetics.
The decor consists of items that directly reference the exploration of the cosmos, such as astronaut suits, helmets, and alien dolls.
One of the major highlights of the structure is its central steel staircase. It leads guests to an acrylic dome at the top of the flying saucer, where a high-precision telescope is available.
Additionally, the various circular openings around the capsule allow for the strategic entry of natural light, reinforcing the stylized industrial design of the accommodation.
External Structure and Pop Culture References
The creativity of the owners of the UFO Hotel goes beyond the main capsule. To complement the science fiction theme, the bathroom has been installed inside a replica of the TARDIS, the famous time-traveling cabin from the Doctor Who series.
On the outside, the infrastructure offers total autonomy for travelers, combining rustic with technological.
Guests at Melin Mabes enjoy the following differentiators:
- Gourmet Area: Compact outdoor kitchen with stove, oven, and refrigerator;
- Private Leisure: Exclusive garden and hot tub with lunar design;
- Diverse Accommodations: Option to stay in a treehouse with a slide or in a restored gypsy caravan on the same property;
- Artisanal Services: Delivery of baskets with local cheeses and meats on demand;
- Pet Friendly: Open space for dogs, with an additional fee.
From auction item to world tourism icon
The journey of constructing the UFO Hotel is an example of creative recycling. Acquired at an auction, the fiberglass capsule was disassembled into six parts to be transported to Wales.
To give the final touch of “flying saucer,” Martin added three support legs inspired by classic works such as “The War of the Worlds.”
The location, which 12 years ago was a thicket around a 17th-century mill, has become a tourist landmark.
Moreover, the fame of the Spodnic UFO was boosted by the series World’s Most Secret Hotels, presented by Julie Walters, which highlights extraordinary destinations around the world.
Therefore, for those looking to escape the obvious, Wales offers an opportunity for a “space trip” without leaving the ground.
With information from the website Aventuras na História
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