Enjoy a stylish family stay near Hay on Wye and the Brecon Beacons National Park. The pretty town of Hay on Wye, famed for its annual literary festival, is only a short drive away. Surrounded by total quietness with just the sound of nature, birds and cuckoos to keep you company, into the evening look up to the night sky and find your favourite constellations or stars which look like bright diamonds. This gentle spot, nestled on a quiet and organic holding, has been inhabited since the Bronze Age. Steeped in romance and intrigue, with the friendliest of hosts welcoming you to explore the 69 acres, you can uncover ancient springs, medieval paths and tracks directly up into the Black Mountains. After exploring the many wonders in the nearby area, revive by drinking the property’s own spring water. There is an abundance of activities, from walking, cycling and pony trekking within the Brecon Beacons National Park, even lazy days picnicking and paddling on the River Wye. Welcoming watering holes and a strong foodie heritage are abound in this inspirational location. There’s even a handy farm restaurant within walking distance and a host of excellent eateries including Michelin starred chefs. Fishing is also available on the nearby Monnow, with day permits available from the award-winning village store in nearby Longtown.
Adriaan’s Datcha - Newly opened and reflecting the idea of a Russian Datcha - with library, soft seating and a wood burning stove, oozes charm and atmosphere. Enjoy the view, read a book or write a letter. You can now book an afternoon tea to be served in the datcha.
After arriving at the property, guests will be welcomed into the beautiful open-plan lounge, dining and kitchen area. Bursting with character and charm with a mix of classic and contemporary with original art pieces, stylish art specification materials such as the oak beams, stone walls, stone floors and oak floors. Sink into the comfy sofas and armchairs after a day of exploring and light the warming woodburner, making this a wondrous winter retreat as well as a really special summer getaway. The dining table is also situated in this room, the rustic charm of this area will make every meal a delight. The kitchen boasts a pop of colour and is set to one side of the open-plan room. It is equipped with an electric oven and hob, microwave, dishwasher and Nespresso machine, perfect for morning coffee. There is also an optional complimentary maid and laundry service. The open tread stairs lead to a snug mezzanine area and is a great chill out room with its day bed, Smart TV, DVD and iPod dock. There are two bedrooms in this beautiful barn, the first is the ground floor super-king-size bedroom which can be made into a twin upon request and it comes with an en-suite shower room and WC. The second is a twin bedroom an en-suite shower room and WC.
Heading outside, there are landscaped topiary and herb gardens to explore as well as two private terrace areas, one with a table, chairs and BBQ, perfect for alfresco dining on a lazy summer evening. Shared, enclosed garden/lawn space, next to the cottage. Guests are also welcome to discover the owner’s historic grounds and gardens.
Please note there is a refundable £100 security deposit for this property payable closer to the start of your holiday.
Read more Code: 42881
LAZE IN THE SPA: There is a beautiful Scandi style sauna on site which can be booked directly with the owner for an additional cost starting at £60 for 2 hours, closer to the time of your stay. A range of Spa treatments are also available, including beauty treatments, massage and Reiki therapies.
ADRIAAN'S DATCHA: Reflecting the idea of a Russian datcha, this newly opened outdoor room with library, soft seating and a wood burning stove, oozes charm and atmosphere. With wonderful views and set away from the property, feel the magic as you enter this small building. Read a book or write a letter, while sipping tea by the warmth of the fire. You can now book an afternoon tea for a small fee, to be served in the datcha.
DINE ON THE DOORSTEP: There are a number of excellent country pubs throughout the Golden Valley within very easy reach. White Haywood Farm Restaurant, offering wholesome farm food (as well as a farm chip shop on a Thursday), is across the fields, licensed and perfect for supper.
POSH NOSH: Abergavenny has some fabulous restaurants, The Walnut Tree Inn & The Hardwick are within 25 minutes drive. Within the Welsh Borders, Tio et Moi has a growing reputation as being one of the most romantic places to eat in the area and families will enjoy a trip to Rowlestone Court, a beautiful Black Mountains working farm, with exceptionally fine ice cream!
WALKING: The walking from the door is second to none, including climbing the "Cats Back" , which is a must. Try a trip to the top of the "Darren", or explore Offa's Dyke, the ancient natural border between England and Wales. We've tried them all, so if you'd like any tips just have a chat to the team.
CYCLING: Excellent routes for road and mountain bikers alike. The lanes are suitable for children too, although it is pretty hilly! Cycles can be pre-ordered and delivered to the door from Drover Cycles. There is also Vespa hire in Glasbury, as well as canoe hire for a trip on the River Wye.
TOWNS & VILLAGES: The Welsh Borders have numerous small villages, with country pubs and small stores. Longtown is the nearest big village, with award winning Hopes village store, which seems to sell everything from stamps to fishing permits! Hay on Wye, with its famous Literary Festival is 20 minutes drive away, with 30+ independent bookshops and pretty antique and shops and stylish stores. There are good places to eat as well. Abergavenny is 30 minutes away with one of the countries largest food festivals in September each year. The Cathedral City of Hereford, with the Mappa Mundi can also be reached in 30 minutes.
CULTURE & CASTLES: The Norman Conquest saw a large number of castles springing up in the Welsh Marches, many of which still remain in some form or other today. White Castle, Longtown, Grosmont and Raglan Castle are certainly worth a visit for a touch of local history. There are lots of beautiful old churches and abbey's around too. Patrishow Church in the Vale of Grywnne is a particularly lovely example, as well as the crooked church at Cwmyoy in the beautiful Llanthony Valley. Guide books and information available on arrival.
SLEEPS 4: Two bedrooms, an en-suite king-size and a twin with its own bathroom. Both furnished to an exceptionally high standard with crisp sheets, soft duvets and beautiful furnishings. There is also a family-friendly mezzanine area to play and relax.
RELAXING INSIDE: Light, bright and airy downstairs with wood burning stove, full central heating, soft seating and dining over- looking the garden and view. Cosy mezzanine with day bed, cards and games are supplied and there is also Smart Apple TV, DVD, Netflix and iPod dock. Wi-Fi throughout.
RELAXING OUTSIDE: A brand new wellness room and sauna is now available for guests. Includes a sauna, separate relaxation area and shower, plus a range of treatments. Also available to book directly with the owners after securing your accommodation dates are a range of massage treatments and beauty therapies.
ADRIAAN'S DATCHA: Reflecting the idea of a Russian datcha, this newly-opened outdoor room with a library, soft seating and a wood burning stove, oozes charm and atmosphere. With wonderful views and set away from the property, feel the magic as you enter this small building. Enjoy the view, read a book or write a letter, while sipping tea by the warmth of the fire. You can now book an afternoon tea to be served in the datcha.
KITCHEN: Contemporary units with cool glass splash backs and stainless steel worktops. Well equipped kitchen drawers, with everything a cook should need. Microwave, dishwasher, electric hob, oven and Nespresso machine. Shared washing machine available in the owners adjacent property.
LOVELY TOUCHES: A high level of service (think boutique hotel), with optional complimentary maid and laundry service, locally produced and freshly made food available. Smart TV, iPod sound compatibility and Nespresso machine. There is also an exclusive range of luxury delicatessen, as well as free-range farm eggs available for order. You can also treat yourself to a scrumptious afternoon tea for an additional cost, either in the cottage or Adriaan's datcha.
GADGETS: Smart Apple TV, Netflix compatible receiver and iPod sound compatibility, Wi-Fi throughout and complimentary Nespresso capsules.
GROUNDS: Landscaped topiary and herb gardens and two private terrace areas with dining table and chairs. Weber barbeque and parasol. Set within 69 acres of peaceful farmland, guests are very welcome to explore the historic grounds and gardens. Shared enclosed garden/lawn space, next to the cottage.
PETS: No extra charge for pets - You must mention you are bringing a dog at reservation / booking stage so the owner can prepare
SECURITY BOND: This property does have a £100 refundable security bond, this is managed directly with Sugar and Loaf.
MEZZANINE: The stairs up to the mezzanine area are steep, and small children will need supervision. But once upstairs, a child-proof gate makes sure children cannot fall over. The access to the mezzanine may not be suitable for people with restricted mobility.