Log Cabins to RentWild moorland, breathtaking waterfalls, forests and rolling pastures make the Brecons Beacons National Park an ideal location for outdoor activities. Take a challenging walk up Pen y Fan, enjoy the exhilaration of mountain biking in the Black Mountains or simply browse the bookshops in Hay-on-Wye.
The wonderful Old Workshop is nestled on the fantastic Pontardawe Country Estate which enjoys a remarkable history, unique character and more than one hundred and twenty acres of beautiful rolling Welsh countryside. The Pontardawe Country Estate is located between the Brecon Beacons National Park and the beautiful Gower Peninsula in South Wales. The Old Workshop is a cosy countryside cottage that has been beautifully renovated to provide modern, luxurious living. It is situated alongside a mountain stream on the slopes of Mynydd Marchywel, overlooking the central courtyard of the estate and sheep grazing in parkland.
The characterful Old Workshop enjoys one bedroom with an added single bed, beautiful open plan living space, a luxurious wet room and its own outdoor space. The cottage was formally the estate carpenter’s workshop. In addition to its superb grounds, the Pontardawe Estate boasts a gorgeous manor house, Pontardawe Country House, as well as a number of other holiday cottages that Oliver’s Travels also feature. Guests can book each of these individually or for a special celebration, you may want to consider booking a selection of the cottages as well as the manor house.
The Old Workshop is tucked away and offers beauty, serenity and tranquility to the lucky guests that happen to book it. The Old Workshop was a former outbuilding on the estate, some of which record a history back to the early 1400’s. The estate lies in the ancient hamlet of Cilybebyll with links to the descendants of Welsh Kings, Arthurian legend, tales of the Mabinogion, the Norman invasion, the Earls of Pembrokeshire, Winston Churchill’s secret army, eighteenth century prisons, Charles II, the tea plantations of Ceylon, coal mining, the Industrial Revolution and much more. A World War II hideout, used by Churchill’s Secret Army was found in the estate’s private bluebell woodland and gained recognition as a Scheduled Ancient Monument of national importance.
The living space of The Old Workshop is very cosy and very modern. Open plan in design, it features a sleek, contemporary kitchen in one corner, perfect for your self-catering getaway, a modern, circular dining table and chairs in the middle and comfy sofas, a television and a contemporary wood burning stove at the far end. The television comes with over 150 channels for your entertainment. The generous sized bedroom is minimalist in styling, features a characterful exposed stone wall and offers both a kingsize bed and a single bed. You may decide to book this cottage for a romantic break or come with one child and perhaps a baby in a cot. The neutral walls are decorated with Welsh themed pictures and prints throughout. The cottage’s bathroom is a contemporary wonder with beautiful tiling, a wet room rainforest shower and other excellent fittings. The cottage is all on one level so it is perfect for anyone with mobility issues. The contemporary wet room offers ample room for a wheelchair to turn. It is also eco-friendly, being heated with renewable energy. The Old Workshop is also pet friendly but please let us know in advance if you want to bring your furry friend. There is private parking on the courtyard alongside the cottage.
The Old Workshop comes with a pretty, private garden where you can enjoy the wildlife, relax with a glass of wine on the south facing terrace, enjoy the tranquil sounds of the mountain stream, feed the birds on the patio walls or each lunch under the chestnut tree.
You can have food delivered from the local supermarket in Pontardawe, so you do not even need to leave this idyllic corner of Wales. Guests enjoy access to the river and farm trail and enjoy woodland walks from the doorstep. It is just a fifteen minute stroll along a country lane to the village pub. It is hard to beat this secluded, peaceful location. If you do leave the estate, then the majestic Brecon Beacons and the stunning Gower Peninsula are on the doorstep.
The Old Workshop is nestled quietly in the one hundred and twenty acre Pontardawe Country Estate in the tranquil hamlet of Cilybebyll, close to the village of Pontardawe. The estate is absolutely incredible with woodlands, rivers, bluebell woods, sprawling fields, bird nesting boxes, beautiful picnic spots, a stately manor house and other holiday cottages. It is the perfect rural retreat between the Gower Peninsula and the Brecon Beacons National Park. Though you may find it hard to leave this wonderful spot, there is much to do and see. The estate courtyard where many of the cottages are located is bounded by the upper reaches of the picturesque River Clydach and on the other side by green parkland pastures grazed by sheep and cows. The high hills of blue pennant sandstone provide the backdrop to an idyllic and tranquil scene. Guests booking The Old Workshop are free to roam the estate including its award winning bluebell woodland. The estate’s farm walk is a circular walk for guests which meanders from the doorstep of The Old Workshop towards the summit of Mynydd Marchywel and back. En route, guests follow mountain streams, climb over stiles, explore the bluebell woodlands and traverse lazy green fields. On a clear day, the panoramic vistas include the Swansea Valley, Swansea Bay, the Bristol Channel and the Brecon Beacons National Park.The cottage is an excellent base for those that want to explore the landscapes by bike. The Afan Forest and Bike Park Wales are easily accessible.
The beautiful Swansea Bay coastline and the Gower Peninsula with its idyllic secret coves and glorious stretches of fine sand can be reached by car in twenty minutes. For those that want to enjoy nature and the great outdoors, the National Showcaves of Wales and the Vale of Neath’s spectacular waterfalls are nearby. Guests enjoy visits to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and the Glamorganshire Heritage Coast, both less than half an hour away.
The Victorian seaside village of Mumbles with its promenade, shops and restaurants is definitely worth a visit. Mumbles was one of Dylan Thomas’ many stamping grounds and is the home of some world class ice cream. Mumbles is steeped in history with its lighthouse being built in 1794. It also boasts a Victorian pier and Oystermouth Castle which sits on the hilltop overlooking the sea. There are lovely boutique shops and galleries including the gorgeous Lovespoon Gallery and the Gower Gallery. No visit to Mumbles would be complete without sampling some ‘fresh off the boat’ seafood, its handmade chocolates and its fantastic ice creams.
The fabulous, characterful Old School House sits quietly on the phenomenal Pontardawe Country Estate which enjoys a remarkable history, unique character and more than one hundred and twenty acres of beautiful rolling Welsh countryside. The Old School House enjoys much character, two bedrooms, beautiful living space and its own outdoor space. It is nestled between the folly and the walled garden with its own delightful lawn, alongside the picturesque River Clydach. In addition to its superb grounds, the Pontardawe Estate boasts a gorgeous manor house, Pontardawe Country House, as well as a number of other holiday cottages that Oliver’s Travels also feature. Guests can book each of these individually or for a special celebration, you may want to consider booking a selection of the cottages as well as the manor house.
The Old School House is tucked away and offers beauty, serenity and tranquility to the lucky guests that happen to book it. With two beautiful bedrooms, the cottage sleeps four guests in luxurious comfort. The Old School House was a former outbuilding on the estate, some of which record a history back to the early 1400’s. The estate lies in the ancient hamlet of Cilybebyll with links to the descendants of Welsh Kings, Arthurian legend, tales of the Mabinogion, the Norman invasion, the Earls of Pembrokeshire, Winston Churchill’s secret army, eighteenth century prisons, Charles II, the tea plantations of Ceylon, coal mining, the Industrial Revolution and much more. A World War II hideout, used by Churchill’s Secret Army was found in the estate’s private bluebell woodland and gained recognition as a Scheduled Ancient Monument of national importance. The Old School House enjoys its own fascinating history. The building was used as the Church Sunday School in the early 20th century. Children received a glass of milk and a slice of cake after every session. Word spread and children came from other parishes to attend. The ground floor was originally a bakery and children from the estate were taught in an upstairs room. The building was also used as a sewing room at one point with the opera singer Madame Adelina Patti having many dresses made in the cottage. The cottage now makes for a tranquil, beautiful, idyllic retreat with its wonderfully rich history and the fabulous estate grounds. Guests wake up to bird song and the babbling stream, what utter bliss!
The Old School House boasts a warm and cosy living room with a fabulous wood burner for chilly evenings, comfy leather sofas and chairs and beautiful views from the windows. The cottage is pet friendly on request so you will often find guest’s furry friends curled up in front of the wood burner. The traditional country kitchen is the heart of this wonderful cottage. It offers a brilliant Rayburn cooker and woodburning stove which keeps the whole cottage warm and cosy. The solid oak kitchen offers every appliance that you could wish for and carries a very warm and welcoming ambience. The Old School House also boasts a very smart conservatory, a beautiful bright and airy spot to enjoy the warmth and natural light flooding through the windows, curled up with your holiday book. The cottage is heated by renewable energy.
Upstairs you will discover two beautifully finished bedrooms, one with a super kingsize bed which can be made up as twins and one with a double bed. The sumptuous beds are beautifully dressed and offer the sleep of kings. They share a gorgeous bathroom with a bath and overhead shower. There is an additional toilet on the ground floor. The cottage is very pretty, inside and out. You will not forget your holiday here, that is for sure!
You can have food delivered from the local supermarket in Pontardawe, so you do not even need to leave this idyllic corner of Wales. Guests enjoy access to the river and farm trail and enjoy woodland walks from the doorstep. It is hard to beat this secluded, peaceful location. If you do leave the estate, then the majestic Brecon Beacons and the stunning Gower Peninsula are on the doorstep.
The Old School House sits in the one hundred and twenty acre Pontardawe Country Estate in the tranquil hamlet of Cilybebyll, close to the village of Pontardawe. The estate is absolutely marvellous with woodlands, rivers, bluebell woods, sprawling fields, bird nesting boxes, beautiful picnic spots, a stately manor house and other holiday cottages. It is the perfect rural retreat between the Gower Peninsula and the Brecon Beacons National Park. Though you may find it hard to leave this wonderful spot, there is much to do and see. The estate courtyard where many of the cottages are located is bounded by the upper reaches of the picturesque River Clydach and on the other side by green parkland pastures grazed by sheep and cows. The high hills of blue pennant sandstone provide the backdrop to an idyllic and tranquil scene. Guests booking The Old School House are free to roam the estate including its award winning bluebell woodland. The estate’s farm walk is a circular walk for guests which meanders from the doorstep of The Old School House towards the summit of Mynydd Marchywel and back. En route, guests follow mountain streams, climb over stiles, explore the bluebell woodlands and traverse lazy green fields. On a clear day, the panoramic vistas include the Swansea Valley, Swansea Bay, the Bristol Channel and the Brecon Beacons National Park.
The cottage is an excellent base for those that want to explore the landscapes by bike. The Afan Forest and Bike Park Wales are easily accessible.
The Old School House is just twenty minutes drive from the beautiful Swansea Bay coastline and the Gower Peninsula with its gorgeous coves and glorious stretches of fine sand. The Victorian seaside village of Mumbles with its promenade, shops and restaurants is worth a visit and for those that love nature and the outdoors, the National Showcaves of Wales and the Vale of Neath’s spectacular waterfalls are nearby. Guests enjoy visits to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and the Glamorganshire Heritage Coast, both less than half an hour away.
Mumbles was one of Dylan Thomas’ many stamping grounds and is the home of some world class ice cream. Mumbles is steeped in history with its lighthouse being built in 1794. It also boasts a Victorian pier and Oystermouth Castle which sits on the hilltop overlooking the sea. There are lovely boutique shops and galleries including the gorgeous Lovespoon Gallery and the Gower Gallery. No visit to Mumbles would be complete without sampling some ‘fresh off the boat’ seafood, its handmade chocolates and its fantastic ice creams.
The gorgeous Riverside Cottage is the latest addition to the collection of unique, luxury holiday cottages on the Pontardawe Country Estate. Previously an outbuilding where animals fed at the farm, the cottage is now a luxurious, romantic retreat for couples. It is all on one level so is also ideal for those with mobility issues. Riverside Cottage sits alongside the Clydach River with a stunning glass fronted patio garden, a very peaceful pretty spot where you can look out for wildlife such as wild trout and grey wagtails and enjoy alfresco dining.
Riverside Cottage has been beautifully renovated and designed to blend luxurious contemporary features with ancient nods from the past. Throughout the cottage you will discover exposed stonework, beams and a vaulted ceiling together with statement lighting, a state-of-the-art rainforest shower and a gleaming kitchen. The furnishings are sumptuous and superbly comfortable. The colour hues are mostly natural and calm, blending beautiful with the natural stone walls and the gorgeous flagstone floor made from Welsh pennant sandstone. The living space is open plan in design and the vaulted ceiling makes it seem incredibly spacious. A dazzling white, glossy kitchen sits at one end with every appliance you could wish for. The breakfast bar is wonderful and accompanied by modern, industrial style stools. A comfy sofa sits next to the exposed stone wall, perfectly positioned to watch any of the 150 channels available on the Smart television. Also provided for your entertainment are a DVD player, a selection of books, maps, cards and games. The cottage will always be warm and cosy with underfloor heating throughout. The brilliant white walls are decorated with beautiful local art including a stunning print by the eighteenth century landscape painter Paul Sandby. The living space is intimate yet has a wonderful open feel with a door that opens to your cottage garden. You should look out for coal fossils in the flower bed wall and historic coping stones that glisten myriad colours in the sunlight.
The bathroom is very indulgent with a gigantic roll top Victorian cast iron bath which was originally from the estate’s manor house. It has been meticulously restored and, in vibrant red, it takes pride of place in Riverside Cottage. If baths are not your thing, there is also a luxurious walk-in rainforest shower.
Your bedroom is beautifully appointed with a super luxurious kingsize bed, beautifully adorned with hotel quality linens and attractive soft furnishings. It features exposed beams, yet more local artwork and a door that opens directly onto the riverside patio, perfect for your morning cup of coffee. Riverside Cottage is a wonderful, super comfy nest to get away from it all and enjoy the countryside. There are so many special walks from the doorstep with spectacular views over the surrounding countryside or you may decide to just relax, watch the glistening stream and read your holiday books in this heavenly space.
The amazing Pontardawe Country Estate enjoys a remarkable history, unique character and more than one hundred and twenty acres of beautiful rolling Welsh countryside. Guests are welcome to explore the estate, find beautiful picnic spots, watch the sheep and other animals, climb the stiles and enjoy the fresh air. In addition to its superb grounds, the Pontardawe Estate boasts a gorgeous manor house, Pontardawe Country House, as well as a number of other holiday cottages that Oliver’s Travels also feature. Guests can book each of these individually or, for a special celebration, you may want to consider booking a selection of the cottages as well as the manor house.
The stunning Riverside Cottage is nestled quietly in the one hundred and twenty acre Pontardawe Country Estate in the tranquil hamlet of Cilybebyll, close to the village of Pontardawe. The estate is incredible, brimming with woodlands, rivers, bluebell woods, sprawling fields, bird nesting boxes, beautiful picnic spots, a stately manor house and other holiday cottages. It is the perfect rural retreat between the Gower Peninsula and the Brecon Beacons National Park. Though you may find it hard to leave this wonderful spot, there is much to do and see. The estate courtyard where many of the cottages are located is bounded by the upper reaches of the picturesque River Clydach and on the other side by green parkland pastures grazed by sheep and cows. The high hills of blue pennant sandstone provide the backdrop to an idyllic and tranquil scene. Guests booking Riverside Cottage are free to roam the estate including its award winning bluebell woodland. The estate’s farm walk is a circular walk for guests which meanders from the doorstep of Riverside Cottage towards the summit of Mynydd Marchywel and back. En route, guests follow mountain streams, climb over stiles, explore the bluebell woodlands and traverse lazy green fields. On a clear day, the panoramic vistas include the Swansea Valley, Swansea Bay, the Bristol Channel and the Brecon Beacons National Park.The cottage is an excellent base for those that want to explore the landscapes by bike. The Afan Forest and Bike Park Wales are easily accessible.
The Gower Peninsula and the beautiful Swansea Bay coastline with its idyllic secret coves and glorious stretches of fine sand can be reached by car in twenty minutes. The National Showcaves of Wales and the Vale of Neath’s spectacular waterfalls are also nearby. Guests enjoy visits to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and the Glamorganshire Heritage Coast, both less than half an hour away.
The Victorian seaside village of Mumbles enjoys a delightful promenade with many shops and restaurants. Mumbles was one of Dylan Thomas’ many stamping grounds and is the home of some delicious, world class ice cream. Mumbles is steeped in history with its lighthouse being built in 1794. It also boasts a Victorian pier and Oystermouth Castle which sits on the hilltop overlooking the sea. There are lovely boutique shops and galleries including the gorgeous Lovespoon Gallery and the Gower Gallery. While in Mumbles you must sample some delicious ‘fresh off the boat’ seafood, handmade chocolates and tasty ice creams.
Families just love Raven Cottage. Well, who wouldn’t want to be situated on a fantastic one hundred and twenty acre private estate brimming with wildlife, green fields, bluebell woods, rivers and stunning picnic spots! Raven Cottage boasts three gorgeous bedrooms and fantastic, contemporary upside down living. The cottage was once a farm shearing shed and the fabulous award winning architects Rio Architects have done a brilliant job of blending contemporary design with ancient charms.
Raven Cottage sits next to the old farmyard on the brilliant Pontardawe Country Estate in the ancient hamlet of Cilybebyll, surrounded by beautiful rolling Welsh countryside. The historic estate boasts links to the descendants of Welsh Kings, Arthurian legend, tales of the Mabinogion, the Norman invasion, the Earls of Pembrokeshire, Winston Churchill’s secret army, eighteenth century prisons, Charles II, the tea plantations of Ceylon, coal mining, the Industrial Revolution and much more. A World War II hideout, used by Churchill’s Secret Army was found in the estate’s private bluebell woodland and gained recognition as a Scheduled Ancient Monument of national importance. In addition to its superb grounds, the Pontardawe Estate boasts a gorgeous manor house, Pontardawe Country House, as well as a number of other holiday cottages that Oliver’s Travels also feature. Guests can book each of these individually or for a special celebration, you may want to consider booking a selection of the cottages with or without the manor house. Guests staying at the cottages are free to roam the estate, enjoying the beautiful natural scenery and its amazing wildlife.
Sleeping six guests in luxurious comfort, the cottage boasts sumptuous furnishings throughout and a calm, neutral colour palette. The walls are decorated with beautiful local art by prominent artists. A display coffee table is filled with centuries old artefacts and curiosities found by metal detectorists at the farm over the years. One of the highlights is an old button which features a raven which was part of an army of ravens that protected a Welsh Prince of the Dark Ages from whom previous owners of the farm claim descent. You will be enthralled with the history of this place! This story is told in the Welsh medieval Tales of the Mabinogion and depicted in an art print by famed Lord of the Rings illustrator Alan Lee which hangs in the living room of the cottage. Despite all this history, the upstairs living area offers the contemporary wow factor and offers wonderful views of the estate. With a snazzy, brilliant white kitchen offering the very best in appliances, dining for six and a large living area brimming with comfy sofas and chairs, it is a wonderful modern space. Guests enjoy sitting in the reading chair in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows enjoying the scenery as well as watching the 150 channels available on the Smart television. There is also a useful toilet on the first floor.
The beautifully finished bedrooms are downstairs with the spacious master looking out to the old farmyard. Its modern furniture is complemented by a section of exposed blue pennant sandstone wall. The comfy bed is adorned with luxury linens and beautiful soft furnishings. At the other end of the cottage you will find a beautiful twin bedroom and another twin where the beds can be put together to form a kingsize bed. Again, the rooms are beautifully finished in neutral tones and the occasional colour pop. Separating the master from these two bedrooms is a super cool family bathroom with a fabulous standalone bath with waterfall taps as well as a superb, walk-in rainfall shower. You will want to linger in this luxurious, indulgent bathroom for sure! Raven Cottage is always warm and toasty, heated by renewable biomass and insulated by sheep’s wool which is wonderful considering the building’s past!
Outside, the cottage enjoys its own private garden and parking area. Here you can enjoy alfresco dining in the fresh country air using the cottage’s barbecue. You might even find the enchanted stone tree in one of the stone walls. If you can bare to leave this beautiful, modern retreat then the farm trail starts right from the cottage doorstep! A short farm road also takes you along the bank of the pretty River Clyach and into the beautiful bluebell wood. Guests can have food delivered from the local supermarket in Pontardawe, so you do not even need to leave this idyllic corner of Wales.
Raven Cottage enjoys a fabulous position on the one hundred and twenty acre Pontardawe Country Estate in the tranquil hamlet of Cilybebyll, close to the village of Pontardawe. The estate is absolutely beautiful, full of forests, rivers, bluebell woods, sprawling fields, bird nesting boxes, beautiful picnic spots, a stately manor house and other holiday cottages. It is the perfect rural retreat between the Gower Peninsula and the Brecon Beacons National Park. The estate courtyard where many of the cottages are located is bounded by the upper reaches of the picturesque River Clydach and on the other side by green parkland pastures grazed by sheep and cows. The high hills of blue pennant sandstone provide the backdrop to an idyllic and tranquil scene. Guests booking Raven Cottage are free to roam the estate including its award winning bluebell woodland. The estate’s farm walk is a circular walk for guests which meanders from the doorstep of Raven Cottage towards the summit of Mynydd Marchywel and back. En route, guests follow mountain streams, climb over stiles, explore the bluebell woods and traverse lazy green fields. On a clear day, the panoramic vistas include the Swansea Valley, Swansea Bay, the Bristol Channel and the Brecon Beacons National Park. The cottage is an excellent base for those that want to explore the landscapes by bike. The Afan Forest and Bike Park Wales are easily accessible.
The beautiful Swansea Bay coastline and the Gower Peninsula with its idyllic secret coves in and glorious stretches of fine sand is just twenty minutes drive away. You should not miss a trip to the iconic, award winning Rhossili Bay with its dramatic, panoramic views and excellent hiking paths. Rhossili has been described as ‘The supermodel of British beaches’ by The Independent and has won numerous accolades from UK Travel Writers including the best spot for a picnic. The Times listed the beach as ‘The UK’s No.1 dog friendly beach’ so if you do have your furry friend with you, you should definitely go. At low tide the beach is enormous and it is possible to walk across to Llangennith or even to the Worms Head. It is steep to walk down to the beach so it is not suitable for pushchairs or visitors with mobility issues.
The Victorian seaside village of Mumbles with its promenade, shops and restaurants is worth a visit. Mumbles was one of Dylan Thomas’ many stamping grounds and is the home of some world class ice cream. Mumbles is steeped in history with its lighthouse being built in 1794. It also boasts a Victorian pier and Oystermouth Castle which sits on the hilltop overlooking the sea. There are lovely boutique shops and galleries including the gorgeous Lovespoon Gallery and the Gower Gallery. No visit to Mumbles would be complete without sampling some ‘fresh off the boat’ seafood, its handmade chocolates and its fantastic ice creams.
Other popular excursions are the National Showcaves of Wales and the Vale of Neath’s spectacular waterfalls. Guests also enjoy visits to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and the Glamorganshire Heritage Coast, both less than half an hour away.
It is such a treat to stay in the lovely Stable Cottage. It is immaculate, beautiful, cosy and very romantic. With a four poster bed, a fairytale babbling brook running alongside, a gorgeous log burning stove and beautiful nature all around, it is a truly idyllic spot that sleeps up to four guests. This is a cottage with a fascinating history. As you walk through the cottage from room to room, you will be thinking of how it was in days gone by. Stable Cottage was originally built to house the horses and carriages that carried the landed gentry to and from the Pontardawe Country Estate. The kitchen was once a saddle room, the lounge was where the carriage horses slept, the twin bedroom was the groom’s quarters and the master bedroom was the estate office. Here it is said that the lord of the manor conducted romantic liaisons with local ladies as well as collecting rent from his tenants! The hallway was where the carriages were parked. A pair or chestnut carriage horses called William and John lived in the cottage in 1914. In the same year a sale was held at the farm. Among the items were a wagonette with a detachable hood by Fuller of Bath, a carriage foot warmer, a dog cart by Vezey of Bath, a Governess cart and a Brougham by Phillips of Neath. All of these items would have been housed in Stable Cottage.
This amazing estate really makes you think of Downton Abbey with its stories and history. This fabulous one hundred and twenty acre Pontardawe Country Estate sits in the ancient hamlet of Cilybebyll, surrounded by beautiful rolling Welsh countryside. The historic estate boasts links to the descendants of Welsh Kings, Arthurian legend, tales of the Mabinogion, the Norman invasion, the Earls of Pembrokeshire, Winston Churchill’s secret army, eighteenth century prisons, Charles II, the tea plantations of Ceylon, coal mining, the Industrial Revolution and much more. A World War II hideout, used by Churchill’s Secret Army was found in the estate’s private bluebell woodland and gained recognition as a Scheduled Ancient Monument of national importance. In addition to its superb grounds, the Pontardawe Estate boasts the gorgeous manor house, Pontardawe Country House, as well as a number of other holiday cottages that Oliver’s Travels also feature. Guests can book each of these individually or for a special celebration, you may want to consider booking a selection of the cottages with or without the manor house. Guests staying at the cottages are free to roam the estate, enjoying the beautiful natural scenery and its amazing wildlife. There are waymarkers from Stable Cottage along the river into a beautiful oak woodland.
Stable Cottage is a wonderful self catering holiday cottage with comfortable living space, a delightful country kitchen, the four poster master and a twin bedroom and wonderful outside space. Its elegant Georgian façade looks out to a courtyard lawn enveloped by giant beech trees and parkland. Guests can sit beneath the canopy of the beeches to enjoy fabulous sunsets over the sheep grazed parkland or relax in the private back garden, listening to the soothing sounds of the babbling brook and birdsong. A little gate leads down to the mountain stream where you can dip your toes and look out for wild trout, dippers and grey wagtails. The banks of the stream are very pretty with bluebells, daffodils, rhododendrons and hazel trees growing wild. You will find a delightful picnic table in the back garden and a barbecue where you can dine alfresco while enjoying the tranquility and natural surroundings. The cottage WiFi even works in the garden so you can enjoy the sunshine and keep track of emails if you wish.
When you arrive at this charming Welsh country gem, you will step into a beautiful, stylish country kitchen which looks out to the back garden. The chef in your group will be delighted by its warm and cosy ambience, its excellent appliances and its gorgeous oak dining table and chairs. The living room is snug and cosy, especially on those chilling evenings when you light the log burning stove. It boasts gorgeous wooden flooring and a comfy sofa and chairs. Guests enjoy Freesat television, a DVD player, a stock of DVDs, a selection of books, maps, cards and games. A door opens to the back garden. You will find a handy downstairs toilet in the corner of the hallway.
As you walk up the stairs you will see many historic, captivating images of this wonderful estate in days gone by. The cottage bathroom is to the right at the top of the stairs with a bath and overhead shower. The enchanting twin bedroom enjoys exposed beams, comfy beds and gorgeous views out to the courtyard lawn. The master bedroom is an idyllic, romantic haven with its four poster bed, exposed beams and fabulous views of the old walled garden of the estate and the manor house. An overhead skylight brings in natural light to this lovely space.
Stable Cottage is just perfect for a country escape. With a fantastic one hundred and twenty acre private estate brimming with wildlife, green fields, bluebell woods, rivers and stunning picnic spots to explore as well as the Brecon Beacons, the Gower Peninsula, numerous museums and delightful towns and villages, you can’t go far wrong in this beautiful corner of Wales.
Stable Cottage enjoys a fabulous position on the one hundred and twenty acre Pontardawe Country Estate in the tranquil hamlet of Cilybebyll, close to the village of Pontardawe. The estate is absolutely beautiful, full of forests, rivers, bluebell woods, sprawling fields, bird nesting boxes, beautiful picnic spots, a stately manor house and other holiday cottages. It is the perfect rural retreat between the Gower Peninsula and the Brecon Beacons National Park. The estate courtyard where many of the cottages are located is bounded by the upper reaches of the picturesque River Clydach and on the other side by green parkland pastures grazed by sheep and cows. The high hills of blue pennant sandstone provide the backdrop to an idyllic and tranquil scene. Guests booking Stable Cottage are free to roam the estate including its award winning bluebell woodland. The estate’s farm walk is a circular walk for guests which meanders from the doorstep of Stable Cottage towards the summit of Mynydd Marchywel and back. En route, guests follow mountain streams, climb over stiles, explore the bluebell woods and traverse lazy green fields. On a clear day, the panoramic vistas include the Swansea Valley, Swansea Bay, the Bristol Channel and the Brecon Beacons National Park. The cottage is an excellent base for those that want to explore the landscapes by bike. The Afan Forest and Bike Park Wales are easily accessible. There is a golf course close by for golf fans and the supermarket in Pontardawe is open 24 hours for those late night emergencies. There is also a village pub within walking distance.
The beautiful Swansea Bay coastline and the Gower Peninsula with its idyllic secret coves in and glorious stretches of fine sand is just twenty minutes drive away. The Victorian seaside village of Mumbles with its promenade, shops and restaurants is worth a visit and for those that want to stay outdoors, the National Showcaves of Wales and the Vale of Neath’s spectacular waterfalls are nearby. Guests enjoy visits to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and the Glamorganshire Heritage Coast, both less than half an hour away.
Mumbles was one of Dylan Thomas’ many stamping grounds and is the home of some world class ice cream. Mumbles is steeped in history with its lighthouse being built in 1794. It also boasts a Victorian pier and Oystermouth Castle which sits on the hilltop overlooking the sea. There are lovely boutique shops and galleries including the gorgeous Lovespoon Gallery and the Gower Gallery. No visit to Mumbles would be complete without sampling some ‘fresh off the boat’ seafood, its handmade chocolates and its fantastic ice creams.
Stream Cottage offers a delightful country getaway for two couples or a small family. Located on the amazing Pontardawe Country Estate with its one hundred and twenty acres of glorious Welsh countryside, it enjoys natural beauty, peace, seclusion and absolutely amazing walks from the doorstep. The cottage sits alongside a picturesque mountain stream alive with wild trout, dippers and grey wagtails and edged with bluebells, daffodils, rhododendrons and hazel trees growing wild. The river runs through the estate on its way to Swansea Bay. The views from the back door of the cottage are of the stream, a pretty bridge, weeping ash, flowering rhododendron and traditional farmyard buildings.
The cottage is dog friendly so you can take your well-behaved furry friend along to enjoy this special place. Stream Cottage is bright and airy yet cosy and very comforting. There are some lovely images in the cottage that show you how the cottage was many moons ago. The white archway and circle that adorn the cottage are telling signs to its past life as a nineteenth century coach house. You can feel the history in this lovely cottage. The living room is very cosy with two comfy sofas, a television, an electric stove and a delightful warm colour palette. It is a wonderful room to nestle down in, enjoy your holiday book or peruse the excellent guest information booklet to decide how to spend your holiday week. The country kitchen enjoys modern cream shaker-style kitchen units, beams on the ceiling, a farmhouse style dining table and chairs and a very good range of appliances that will please the chef in your group.
Upstairs you will find the blue and white family bathroom with its bath and overhead shower and the cottage’s two bedrooms. The master enjoys a comfy double bed and gorgeous views from the windows. The second room is a delightful twin. Both bedrooms are characterful with beams on the ceilings and pretty colour palettes. The views of the stream at the back are so lovely.
Guests enjoy delightful outdoor space at Stream Cottage with a pretty, enclosed rear patio and a front courtyard lawn garden.
The fabulous one hundred and twenty acre Pontardawe Country Estate sits in the ancient hamlet of Cilybebyll, surrounded by beautiful rolling Welsh countryside. The historic estate boasts links to the descendants of Welsh Kings, Arthurian legend, tales of the Mabinogion, the Norman invasion, the Earls of Pembrokeshire, Winston Churchill’s secret army, eighteenth century prisons, Charles II, the tea plantations of Ceylon, coal mining, the Industrial Revolution and much more. A World War II hideout, used by Churchill’s Secret Army was found in the estate’s private bluebell woodland and gained recognition as a Scheduled Ancient Monument of national importance. In addition to its superb grounds, the Pontardawe Estate boasts the gorgeous manor house, Pontardawe Country House, as well as a number of other holiday cottages that Oliver’s Travels also feature. Guests can book each of these individually or for a special celebration, you may want to consider booking a selection of the cottages with or without the manor house. Guests staying at the cottages are free to roam the estate, enjoying the beautiful natural scenery and its amazing wildlife. The estate is brimming with woodland walks, farm trails, green fields, bluebell woods, rivers and stunning picnic spots. When you have had enough you can head to the splendid Brecon Beacons, the Gower Peninsula, museums and numerous delightful towns and villages.
Stream Cottage enjoys a fabulous position on the one hundred and twenty acre Pontardawe Country Estate in the tranquil hamlet of Cilybebyll, close to the village of Pontardawe. The estate is full of forests, rivers, bluebell woods, sprawling fields, bird nesting boxes, beautiful picnic spots, a stately manor house and other holiday cottages. It is the perfect rural retreat between the Gower Peninsula and the Brecon Beacons National Park. The estate courtyard where many of the cottages are located is bounded by the upper reaches of the picturesque River Clydach and on the other side by green parkland pastures grazed by sheep and cows. The high hills of blue pennant sandstone provide the backdrop to an idyllic and tranquil scene. Guests booking Stream Cottage are free to roam the estate including its award winning bluebell woodland. The estate’s farm walk is a circular walk for guests which meanders from the doorstep of Stream Cottage towards the summit of Mynydd Marchywel and back. En route, guests follow mountain streams, climb over stiles, explore the bluebell woods and traverse lazy green fields. On a clear day, the panoramic vistas include the Swansea Valley, Swansea Bay, the Bristol Channel and the Brecon Beacons National Park. The cottage is an excellent base for those that want to explore the landscapes by bike. The Afan Forest and Bike Park Wales are easily accessible. There is a golf course close by for golf fans and the supermarket in Pontardawe is open 24 hours for those late night emergencies. There is also a village pub within walking distance.
The beautiful Swansea Bay coastline and the Gower Peninsula with its idyllic secret coves in and glorious stretches of fine sand is just twenty minutes drive away. You should not miss a trip to the iconic, award winning Rhossili Bay with its dramatic, panoramic views and excellent hiking paths. Rhossili has been described as ‘The supermodel of British beaches’ by The Independent and has won numerous accolades from UK Travel Writers including the best spot for a picnic. The Times listed the beach as ‘The UK’s No.1 dog friendly beach’ so if you do have your furry friend with you, you should definitely go. At low tide the beach is enormous and it is possible to walk across to Llangennith or even to the Worms Head. It is steep to walk down to the beach so it is not suitable for pushchairs or visitors with mobility issues.
The Victorian seaside village of Mumbles with its promenade, shops and restaurants is worth a visit and for those that want to stay outdoors, the National Showcaves of Wales and the Vale of Neath’s spectacular waterfalls are nearby. Guests enjoy visits to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and the Glamorganshire Heritage Coast, both less than half an hour away.
Mumbles was one of Dylan Thomas’ many stamping grounds and is the home of some world class ice cream. Mumbles is steeped in history with its lighthouse being built in 1794. It also boasts a Victorian pier and Oystermouth Castle which sits on the hilltop overlooking the sea. There are lovely boutique shops and galleries including the gorgeous Lovespoon Gallery and the Gower Gallery. No visit to Mumbles would be complete without sampling some ‘fresh off the boat’ seafood, its handmade chocolates and its fantastic ice creams.
Aside from the manor house, Mountain Coach House is the largest accommodation on the astonishing Pontardawe Country Estate. With four bedrooms in total, this fantastic nineteenth century Georgian coach house sleeps up to eight guests. It is comprised of two neighbouring holiday cottages, interconnected to create one large, four bedroomed holiday home. Mountain Coach House sits alongside a picturesque mountain stream alive with wild trout, dippers and grey wagtails and edged with bluebells, daffodils, rhododendrons and hazel trees growing wild. The river runs through the estate on its way to Swansea Bay. The views from the back doors of the coach house are of the stream, a pretty bridge, weeping ash, flowering rhododendron and traditional farmyard buildings. Being two adjoining cottages, Mountain Coach House enjoys two of almost everything, except for the welcome, indulgent hot tub in the garden. This superb, characterful property is ideal for groups of friends or a large family wanting to enjoy a unique holiday experience. Once you have stayed on the Pontardawe Country Estate, you will understand why families return over and over again!
As well as pretty gardens and the hot tub, Mountain Coach House enjoys a four poster bed in one of the bedrooms, a wood burning stove and lots of wonderful images of how the property was in time gone by. The fabulous one hundred and twenty acre Pontardawe Country Estate sits in the ancient hamlet of Cilybebyll, surrounded by beautiful rolling Welsh countryside. The historic estate boasts links to the descendants of Welsh Kings, Arthurian legend, tales of the Mabinogion, the Norman invasion, the Earls of Pembrokeshire, Winston Churchill’s secret army, eighteenth century prisons, Charles II, the tea plantations of Ceylon, coal mining, the Industrial Revolution and much more. A World War II hideout, used by Churchill’s Secret Army was found in the estate’s private bluebell woodland and gained recognition as a Scheduled Ancient Monument of national importance. In addition to its superb grounds, the Pontardawe Estate boasts the gorgeous manor house, Pontardawe Country House, as well as a number of other holiday cottages that Oliver’s Travels also feature. Guests can book each of these individually or for a special celebration, you may want to consider booking a selection of the cottages with or without the manor house. Guests staying at the cottages are free to roam the estate, enjoying the beautiful natural scenery and its amazing wildlife. The estate is brimming with woodland walks, farm trails, green fields, bluebell woods, rivers and stunning picnic spots. When you have had enough you can head to the splendid Brecon Beacons, the Gower Peninsula, museums and numerous delightful towns and villages. A shop, post office and pub can be found in the charming village of Rhos one mile away and the 24 hour supermarket is in Pontardawe, two miles away.
Mountain Coach House lies at the end of a long tree lined drive and forms part of the estate courtyard. It is dog friendly so you can take your well-behaved furry friend along to enjoy this special place. Mountain Coach House is bright and airy yet cosy and very comforting. It offers a very warm and inviting ambience. The bedrooms all enjoy fabulous views, either of the French Chateau-like manor house or the giant beech trees that give way to sheep grazing in the parkland or the soothing river, abundant with wildlife. Downstairs there are two warm and cosy living rooms, two country kitchens and two toilets. As well as modern amenities the coach house offers many enchanting nods to the past. The white archway and circle that adorn the property are telling signs to its past life. You can feel the history in this lovely property. The living rooms are very cosy with comfy sofas, chairs, televisions with plenty of channels, glowing stoves and delightful colour palettes. They are wonderful rooms to nestle down in, enjoy your holiday books, enjoy family games or to peruse the excellent guest information booklets to decide how to spend your holiday week. If children are tired after a busy hiking or beach day, they can watch a movie in one room while the adults chill in the other. Upstairs, guests enjoy two master bedrooms, two twin bedrooms and two bathrooms, all enjoying wonderful character and splendid views.
The gardens are delightful, especially with the hot tub sitting centre stage on a Gwrhyd sandstone patio, a beautiful local stone valued for its fossilized ripple patterns that formed in a tropical lagoon many millions of years ago. There is plenty of room for alfresco dining. Guests enjoy the tranquility of this beautiful location, only interrupted by birdsong and the soothing sounds of the babbling brook.
Mountain Coach House offers a unique holiday experience that families and friends can enjoy together while exploring this magical region and the estate’s fabulous acres.
Mountain Coach House enjoys a fabulous position on the one hundred and twenty acre Pontardawe Country Estate in the tranquil hamlet of Cilybebyll, close to the village of Pontardawe. The estate is full of forests, rivers, bluebell woods, sprawling fields, bird nesting boxes, beautiful picnic spots, a stately manor house and other holiday cottages. It is the perfect rural retreat between the Gower Peninsula and the Brecon Beacons National Park. The estate courtyard where many of the cottages are located is bounded by the upper reaches of the picturesque River Clydach and on the other side by green parkland pastures grazed by sheep and cows. The high hills of blue pennant sandstone provide the backdrop to an idyllic and tranquil scene. Mountain Coach House enjoys a fabulous spot where you can dine alfresco watching the lambs and enjoy fabulous sunsets over the parkland. Guests booking Mountain Coach House are free to roam the estate including its award winning bluebell woodland. The estate’s farm walk is a circular walk for guests which meanders from the doorstep of Parkland Cottage towards the summit of Mynydd Marchywel and back. En route, guests follow mountain streams, climb over stiles, explore the bluebell woods and traverse lazy green fields. On a clear day, the panoramic vistas include the Swansea Valley, Swansea Bay, the Bristol Channel and the Brecon Beacons National Park. The cottage is an excellent base for those that want to explore the landscapes by bike. The Afan Forest and Bike Park Wales are easily accessible. There is a golf course close by for golf fans and the supermarket in Pontardawe is open 24 hours for those late night emergencies. There is also a village pub within walking distance.
The beautiful Swansea Bay coastline and the Gower Peninsula with its idyllic secret coves in and glorious stretches of fine sand is just twenty minutes drive away. You should not miss a trip to the iconic, award winning Rhossili Bay with its dramatic, panoramic views and excellent hiking paths. Rhossili has been described as ‘The supermodel of British beaches’ by The Independent and has won numerous accolades from UK Travel Writers including the best spot for a picnic. The Times listed the beach as ‘The UK’s No.1 dog friendly beach’ so if you do have your furry friend with you, you should definitely go. At low tide the beach is enormous and it is possible to walk across to Llangennith or even to the Worms Head. It is steep to walk down to the beach so it is not suitable for pushchairs or visitors with mobility issues.
The Victorian seaside village of Mumbles with its promenade, shops and restaurants is worth a visit and for those that want to stay outdoors, the National Showcaves of Wales and the Vale of Neath’s spectacular waterfalls are nearby. Guests enjoy visits to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and the Glamorganshire Heritage Coast, both less than half an hour away.
Mumbles was one of Dylan Thomas’ many stamping grounds and is the home of some world class ice cream. Mumbles is steeped in history with its lighthouse being built in 1794. It also boasts a Victorian pier and Oystermouth Castle which sits on the hilltop overlooking the sea. There are lovely boutique shops and galleries including the gorgeous Lovespoon Gallery and the Gower Gallery. No visit to Mumbles would be complete without sampling some ‘fresh off the boat’ seafood, its handmade chocolates and its fantastic ice creams.
The utterly charming Crickhowell Cottage is nestled in the award-winning, quaint village of Crickhowell, close to Abergavenny, the ‘Gateway to Wales’. Enjoying astonishing scenery, Crickhowell nestles in the stunning Usk Valley to the south of the dramatic Black Mountains, the eastern range of the Brecon Beacons National Park. Guests staying in this delightful two bedroomed gem can enjoy beautiful walks and hikes, cycling, mountain climbing, touring fascinating landmarks or simply chilling in wonderful, atmospheric pubs or shopping on the award-winning high street. Crickhowell’s castle is just 200 yards from the doorstep! Crickhowell and its surrounding villages in this wonderful corner of Wales are very welcoming. Just less than three miles from the cottage is the amazing Tretower Castle and Court and within six miles, you can visit both Blaenllynfi Castle and Abergavenny Castle. Children have a ball here and particularly enjoy the Llangorse Multi Activity Centre.
Crickhowell Cottage is a very attractive Grade II listed building with stunning period features. You will feel comfortable and welcome as soon as you open the front door. The living room radiates elegance and enjoys wooden floorboards and a feature fireplace. The sofa is positioned so that you can people watch in this lovely village. There is a flat-screen television for your enjoyment too. The dining room is also delightful with another feature fireplace and well-maintained terracotta and black tiles on the floor. It enjoys country style furniture where you can enjoy some delicious meals cooked in your kitchen. You certainly have some wonderful shops on the high streets to purchase yummy treats from. It is a great cottage for a self-catering stay though if you don’t want to cook, the high street with its cafes, restaurants and pubs is just steps away.
The cottage enjoys two comfy double bedrooms. Both are bright and airy with light flooding the rooms through the attractive sash windows. The shared bathroom is lovely with gorgeous wall and floor tiling and a bath with an overhead shower. The cottage also offers a small courtyard garden with chairs and a coffee table, a wonderful spot for your morning cup of coffee on a fine day.
Crickhowell Cottage is a great pick for a countryside getaway. It is always good to be in the heart of a village with shops, cafes and pubs on hand yet, at the same time, it takes no time at all to be enjoying the fresh mountain air and admiring fabulously scenic views.
Crickhowell Cottage is nestled in the heart of the charming village of Crickhowell. This friendly village has been awarded Best High Street in Britain and is full of independent shops, tea rooms, fantastic pubs and great restaurants. The quaint high street boasts Cashells the Butchers who also supply delicious cheeses, Grenfells & Sons Grocers who will deliver your shopping if you wish, Natural Weigh, Wales’ first zero waste shop, Cw Cw Boutique and the Welsh independent bookshop of the Year, Book-ish. How lovely! The cottage is very close to the River Usk, perfect for riverside strolls. Crickhowell hosts many events throughout the year including the Crickhowell Walking Festival with a number of guided walks of various grades, all led by local experienced guildes. Some might trek all day across the tops of the Black Mountains and Brecon Beacons or others might want to keep to lower paths.
Abergavenny is nestled between seven hills, including Sugar Loaf Mountain, close to the Welsh/English border. It offers a varied range of entertainment to suit all ages. Here you will discover locally-produced food, fantastic scenery and many ancient inns and gorgeous gastro pubs. The town hosts an annual Abergavenny Food Festival and regular farmers markets. Abergavenny is a market town with history and heritage in bucket loads. You can explore castles, medieval mansions, Roman remains, mines and the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal.
Tretower Castle is a Grade I ruined castle in the village of Tretower, 2.7 miles from the cottage. It was built around the beginning of the twelfth century as a motte and bailey castle and was probably replaced mid-century by a stone shell keep. The castle was enlarged in the thirteenth century but later fell into ruin.
The Big Pit National Coal Museum is just six miles from Crickhowell Cottage, an industrial heritage museum in Blaenavon, Torfaen. It was a working coal mine from 1880 to 1980 and opened as a museum in 1983. You will learn all about the local industry and its history.
Golf fans will be happy to note that the Wernddu Golf Club is close by, surrounded by the beautiful scenery of Abergavenny. It is a friendly club that welcomes visitors so you may want to pack your clubs and book a round. It offers gentle rolling fairways against a backdrop of hills, woods and wildlife with the mountains in the distance.
Nestled within two acres of beautiful gardens, Pontardawe Country House holds a tranquil position, where guests can enjoy a truly idyllic stay. The home makes the perfect choice for families looking to explore the great outdoors being within easy reach the stunning Gower Peninsula, home to several sandy beaches, as well as the magnificent Brecon Beacons. While guests will feel a long way from any hustle and bustle, the home is conveniently located just five minutes from the town of Pontardawe, where a variety of helpful amenities, including shops and restaurants, can be found.
Pontardawe Country House dates back as far as the early 1400s and is just bursting with charm and character features, such as the exposed 15th century stone walls by the pool. The home has been lovingly updated throughout the years to provide a comfortable holiday home with all the modern amenities you could possibly need. Ideal for family get-togethers or special occasions, then ground floor is home to the impressive entertaining space which offers room for the whole group to socialise and comprises of an elegant drawing room, oak paneled library, dining room and fully-equipped kitchen which comes complete with an Aga and all the tools you could possibly need to create delicious meals. Sleeping up to eighteen guests, the nine beautifully-appointed bedrooms are situated across the first and second floors, four feature private en-suite bathrooms while the remaining five share the use of two family bathrooms.
Outside, the large grounds offer endless opportunity for exploring, lawn games and yummy picnics while the tennis court is the perfect spot to enjoy some healthy competition! Regardless of the weather, guests can enjoy views of the pond garden, folly, and neoclassical statues from the comfort of the fabulous indoor heated swimming pool.
Pontardawe Country House is located less than a 10-minute drive from the town of Pontardawe, where a selection of helpful supermarkets and restaurants can be found. A wider selection of amenities can be found in Swansea, just a 20-minute drive away. The closest beaches, Aberavon and Port Talbot, are sandy, family-friendly and less than a 30-minute drive away.
There is plenty for the whole family to see, do and explore in the surrounding area. Those wanting to make the most of the great outdoors will enjoy visits to atmospheric Aberdulais which is home to a dramatic waterfall and Europe’s largest water wheel, less than 15-minutes away. Slightly further afield in the Brecon Beacons, keen walkers will enjoy the scenic views from the top of Pen y Fan, just under an hour away from home. The National Showcaves Centre for Wales, with its magical caves, dinosaur park and shire horse centre, is an absolute must-visit and less than a 30-minute drive away. For history enthusiasts, the National Waterfront Museum, Swansea Castle, Carreg Cennen Castle, Dinefwr Castle and the Big Pit National Coal Museum are all within an hours drive of the house.
The stunning Falls Cottage has been beautifully and cleverly designed by the award winning Rio Architects. Nestled on the fabulous Pontardawe Country Estate between the Brecon Beacons National Park and the beautiful Gower Peninsula in South Wales, this fabulous contemporary cottage is perfect for romantic getaways or for small family holidays. This sensational cottage offers two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a beautiful living space and a gorgeous kitchen diner. It sits gracefully beside a mountain stream where you can enjoy breakfast or drinks on the terrace listening to the spring water cascading down the old sandstone riverbank. Surrounded by nature and blissful silence other than birdsong, guests can relax knowing that they can walk from the doorstep enjoying all that this stunning estate has to offer.
The Pontardawe Country Estate enjoys a remarkable history, unique character and more than one hundred and twenty acres of beautiful rolling Welsh countryside. Guests are welcome to explore the estate, find beautiful picnic spots, watch the sheep and other animals, climb the stiles and enjoy the fresh air. In addition to its superb grounds, the Pontardawe Estate boasts a gorgeous manor house, Pontardawe Country House, as well as a number of other holiday cottages that Oliver’s Travels also feature. Guests can book each of these individually or, for a special celebration, you may want to consider booking a selection of the cottages as well as the manor house.
Falls Cottage is beautiful designed. It is an eco-friendly house being heated by biomass and insulated with sheep’s wool so no matter when you visit, you should be warm and cosy. The cottage enjoys a light and airy living space with two sofas perfectly positioned to enjoy the Freesat smart television which offers more than 150 channels. The dazzling white, contemporary kitchen offers all the appliances you would wish for a self-catering getaway. Guests can dine indoors at the modern table and chairs or escape outside to the riverside terrace. Wildlife thrives in the river so you might spot wild trout, dipper, heron or grey wagtails. It is a lovely spot.
The downstairs wet room boasts a beautiful freestanding marble apollo basin, a toilet and a luxurious rainforest shower. It is very modern and beautifully tiled. Upstairs, you discover the second bathroom which looks out onto the old granary and two bedrooms. The master offers a beautifully dressed, comfy double bed and plenty of storage for your holiday wardrobe. It enjoys views upstream towards a picturesque waterfall. The second bedroom is a neat and tidy twin, again with hotel quality linens and beautiful soft furnishings.
Guests can park right next to the cottage and take farm and woodland walks straight from the doorstep. You will find a hugely popular information folder inside the cottage packed with lots of holiday activity ideas.
The beautiful Falls Cottage is nestled quietly in the one hundred and twenty acre Pontardawe Country Estate in the tranquil hamlet of Cilybebyll, close to the village of Pontardawe. The estate is absolutely incredible with woodlands, rivers, bluebell woods, sprawling fields, bird nesting boxes, beautiful picnic spots, a stately manor house and other holiday cottages. It is the perfect rural retreat between the Gower Peninsula and the Brecon Beacons National Park. Though you may find it hard to leave this wonderful spot, there is much to do and see. The estate courtyard where many of the cottages are located is bounded by the upper reaches of the picturesque River Clydach and on the other side by green parkland pastures grazed by sheep and cows. The high hills of blue pennant sandstone provide the backdrop to an idyllic and tranquil scene. Guests booking Falls Cottage are free to roam the estate including its award winning bluebell woodland. The estate’s farm walk is a circular walk for guests which meanders from the doorstep of Falls Cottage towards the summit of Mynydd Marchywel and back. En route, guests follow mountain streams, climb over stiles, explore the bluebell woodlands and traverse lazy green fields. On a clear day, the panoramic vistas include the Swansea Valley, Swansea Bay, the Bristol Channel and the Brecon Beacons National Park.The cottage is an excellent base for those that want to explore the landscapes by bike. The Afan Forest and Bike Park Wales are easily accessible.
The Gower Peninsula and the beautiful Swansea Bay coastline with its idyllic secret coves and glorious stretches of fine sand can be reached by car in twenty minutes. For those that want to enjoy nature and the great outdoors, the National Showcaves of Wales and the Vale of Neath’s spectacular waterfalls are nearby. Guests enjoy visits to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and the Glamorganshire Heritage Coast, both less than half an hour away.
The Victorian seaside village of Mumbles with its promenade, shops and restaurants is definitely worth a visit. Mumbles was one of Dylan Thomas’ many stamping grounds and is the home of some world class ice cream. Mumbles is steeped in history with its lighthouse being built in 1794. It also boasts a Victorian pier and Oystermouth Castle which sits on the hilltop overlooking the sea. There are lovely boutique shops and galleries including the gorgeous Lovespoon Gallery and the Gower Gallery. While in Mumbles you must sample some delicious ‘fresh off the boat’ seafood, handmade chocolates and tasty ice creams.
