Why not plan your special break at one of Sheepskin’s boutique properties after the Schools are back in September so that you can enjoy some me-time with the stunning landscapes of the national parks to yourselves.
All Sheepskin properties are surrounded by outstanding areas of natural beauty, with restaurants and attractions only a stone’s throw away and there are also some interesting events happening this Autumn. With the Brecon Baroque Festival and The Llangollen Food Festival in October, the famous fireworks display at Llandudno Pier underway in November, and some fascinating exhibitions coming up at MOMA Wales in Machynlleth there will be cultural events and great food as well as the great outdoors to explore when you escape to a Sheepskin cottage.
Choose the perfect place for your well deserved break…
Hafod Glan Gwy, a romantic bolt hole near Hay on Wye
If you’re looking for a cosy cabin for two, then Hafod Glan Gwy is the perfect place, situated on banks of the River Wye. You’ll be treated to river views and nearby you can enjoy fishing, canoeing, biking, riding and climbing. When you’re feeling peckish, there is also a good choice of places to eat including the Griffin and the more sophisticated but equally relaxed Felin Fach Griffin. Make sure you do not miss paying a visit to Hay on Wye (just 8 miles away) with its intriguing book and coffee shops. Brecon (10 miles away) is also well worth a visit.
Cider House, a cosy cottage East of Abergavenny
You can’t help but relax at Cider House standing alone in the tranquil gardens of the owner’s house, 8 miles from Abergavenny.
If you enjoy the outdoors you will love the freedom of walking from the cottage door to climb Sugar Loaf or hike the Black Mountains. There is great food just a mile’s walk across the fields at 1861 and for something really special try the Walnut Tree (4 miles) or The Hardwick (10 miles) (Helen’s favourite). You can also enjoy your days in Hay on Wye or Brecon where the Brecon Baroque Festival will be in full swing in October.
Tailor’s Cottage, cosy rural retreat in the heart of Snowdonia
As the name suggests Tailor’s Cottage near Betws y Coed in Snowdonia was originally home to the local tailor and now offers the perfect mix of traditional features and urban style. Escape here and spend days relaxing in front of a glowing fire in the log burner or use the cottage as a base for exploring the craggy hills and valleys of Snowdonia. Tailor’s is close enough to spend an evening out in Llandudno for the spectacular fireworks display.
Manal, a Chic Farmhouse Retreat hidden away in the Brechfa Forest
If it’s time for some R&R there is no better place to do this than Manal, a stunning farmhouse set in the peaceful surroundings of the Brechfa forest, near Carmarthen. Without a TV there is nothing but the pure sounds of forest birdlife and your iPod playing on the B&W docking station to disturb the peace.
There is a plentiful supply of books that you’ll want to stay longer to read in front of the log burner. You should tear yourself away though to discover the delights of the Brechfa Forest and all that awaits you from your front door. Take a simple stroll or a fierce mountain bike ride through the wilderness. Manal is just 8 miles away from Y Polyn restaurant offering great local, home grown and cooked food in relaxed surroundings.
Cragside, a mountain cottage near the beach, close to Pwllheli
If you’re one for adventurous walks and plenty of fresh air, you will love Cragside. Located on a hillside at the end of a private dirt track near Caernarfon not far from the beach, Cragside is surrounded by big open spaces and footpaths that trail off into the distant hills.
You’ll enjoy bracing walks on the beach near Nefyn or more adventurous walks along the Lleyn peninsula coastal path and on the peaks around Snowdon. The castle towns of Caernarfon and Harlech are a short drive away as is Llandudno for the fireworks display.
Hilltop, a truly rustic cottage, South of Betws y Coed
A peaceful paradise for outdoor enthusiasts with mountain biking, climbing and white water rafting all in the area. Hilltop is a beautiful cottage located on the crest of a hill at the end of a private track. There is no central heating but two enormous log burners that make it easy for you to always be cosy.
You can walk from the door through the fields and beyond Penmachno valley to the moonscapes of Migneint or a little further explore the mountains of Snowdonia . You can easily go out for the evening and enjoy the spectacle of the Llandudno fireworks display.
Wayside, a beautifully finished rural property East of Dolgellau
After a long hard day, if it’s luxurious comfort you crave, Wayside doesn’t disappoint. The cosy, white-painted cottage sits on its own by the side of a quiet lane in the beautiful Dyfi valley. Its rough walls and exposed beams are complemented by modern touches such as Sky TV, a big sofa and bean bags, a B&W ipod docking station. There are beautiful views across the valley from the patio perfect for alfresco dinning.
Enjoy a gentle stroll or a challenging walk in the Aran mountains from the front door. Alternatively, you can do a spot of fishing in the river in front of the cottage. Nearby Coed y Brenin centre has routes for beginners and expert mountain bikers. For a little culture why not visit MOMA Wales that has some intriguing looking exhibitions in the Autumn.
The Music Mill, A piece of music history in the Derbyshire hills
Imagine telling your friends that you have stayed in the magnificent Music Mill that once housed the first gramophone needle factory in the UK. The Music Mill retains a Victorian exterior, but inside it combines high levels of comfort with a contemporary and decadent design. The bathroom is uniquely styled following the music theme too! You’ll have to see it for yourself to believe it!
There is fantastic open plan living area and three individual double bedrooms, each equally appealing; the largest features an indulgent claw foot bath at the end of the bed with a view of the fields – just slip into a deep bubble bath with a chilled glass of wine and savour the pure indulgence.
Explore the ridges of the Peak District, such as Stanage Edge, and enjoy wholesome meals at The George or Coleman’s deli in the village just a few hundred metres away.
Great House, a Georgian Manor House in Laugharne
You can treat yourself or someone special to a majestic experience full of grandeur, decadence and splendour at Great House, on the high street of the popular coastal village of Laugharne, South Wales.
Great House is the perfect place to experience elegance and pure indulgence. Why have just one lounge if you can have two, lavishly decorated with antique furnishing and ornaments? The first bedroom has a an extravagant yet elegant four poster bed in a room filled with intriguing paintings, the other two bedrooms have generous bathrooms with roll top baths sitting in vast spaces. If this isn’t enough there is a grand dining room and an outdoor heated pool in the large back garden!
