Wales has become a hotspot for travellers who want to enjoy and explore the country’s enviably picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. With the ‘rise of the staycation’, Wales has soon become the next luxury mainstay, as people around the UK and overseas are drawn to its unique atmosphere, warm hospitality, hearty cuisine and exceptional hotels, B&Bs and properties. Below we have chosen to highlight a few of the properties available that are sure to please even the most discerning of tastes.
It might be no surprise that all of the properties we’ve features are in the magnificent Brecon Beacons. The region encapsulates much of what makes Wales extraordinary.
The Boutique B&B looks to impress from the outset. It is quirky and eccentric, offering an altogether different take on the luxury experience that is more in the vein of the very on-trend agrotourist movement. This converted bull pen is perfect for those looking to reconnect with nature in more laid-back settings.
Of course, as a B&B, it would be remiss to not mention the continental breakfast hamper that is sure to start each morning the right way. A private cedar hot tub is a surprising – though entirely welcome – addition, that seeks to really distinguish the Boutique B&B from their peers. Splendid countryside views are perhaps expected for the region, but nonetheless complete the idyllic image.
The Cottage is a rural dream, embracing everything that makes Wales such a treat for visitors. This cosy cottage features a log burner and all the mod cons, making it the perfect place for a romantic stay for two. Super-King size bed aside, there’s also a treatment studio on site, and a terrace with a BBQ.
Designed to be the epitome of rural luxury, this is simple living at its most refined. Casual, without sacrificing an ounce of style. Based in an enviable location in the Brecon Beacons, the cottage also offers easy access to a number of gentle strolls and cycle rides along the Brecon and Monmouth canal, with the Brecon Beacon mountain range also within reach.
Close by to The Cottage is Jack’s Barn, a converted shepherd’s cottage that has no end to its charm. Placed delicately in the middle of an acre of land, the property has a plethora of cute and quaint additions that are sure to please any guest. A stylish open-plan living area opens up into a shaker-style kitchen and dining area, making barn a great place for small families (and their dogs!) to spend a long weekend. More than anything, Jack’s Barn feels like a home, diligently curated and looked after. The quintessential home away from home.
Slightly more unusual is Black Hill Barn in Hay-On-Wye. This property is bursting with colour and contemporary touches that are sure to make it a hit among guests. With a maid and laundry service, wellness centre and on-site Scandinavian style spa, Black Hill Barn is the complete package – a testament to modern living.
This juxtaposes nicely with Adriaan’s Datcha, which serves to be the complete opposite – a return to a different time. Guests are invited to enjoy the datcha’s library, while making good use of the wood-burning stove. Topiary gardens round out this property’s truly unique offerings. Simply wonderful.
Last but not least is Sugar Loaf Barn, which offers, basically, ‘a bit of everything’. A wonderful view of the surrounding countryside, all of the expected mod cons (and much more besides) and welcome hamper round out the more obvious of Sugar Loaf Barn’s advantages without scratching the surface of what is on offer.
With an ability to accommodate eight adults across four bedrooms, Sugar Loaf Barn boasts plenty of space. A standout is the charming kitchen with its exposed brickwork and beams, tastefully decorated to perfectly compliment the rest of the house. A hot tub is an added bonus and is the ideal place to relax and watch the world go by.
About Sugar & Loaf
Sugar & Loaf offers a selection of hand-picked holiday accommodation across Wales, offering luxury cottages and quirkier places to stay. This collection of cottages is all about the little touches, from furnishings to mod cons to creating a place where you can really make the most of your surroundings. Sugar & Loaf’s portfolio mainly spans the Brecon Beacons but you’ll also find cottages in West Wales, the Welsh Borders and around Snowdonia.