We chose this name to reflect all the love and attention that went into renovating it from October 2007 to May 2009 and the way the cottage is nestled in the foothills of the Cambrian mountains, providing a relaxing retreat and a chance to recuperate to the sound of birdsong.
You can sit by the log burner and watch the red kites soaring over the valley below. Or for the more outwardly inclined, it’s a base from which to plan an invigorating ramble/cycle/stroll in the forests and hills.
Places to Go
It is just a 20 minute drive through the Hafod Estate and through Cwm Ystwyth, then over the mountain road to reach the beautiful Elan Valley.
For beach lovers, it’s a 20 minute drive to the Cardigan coastline, where the coastal path has recently been extended.
Cycling
The village is on National Cycling routes nos. 81 and 82 (those links to Sustrans webpages) which have been described as two of the most beautiful in the country, and anglers and birdwatchers will also find plenty to occupy their time here.
Hafod Estate
The village of Pontrhydygroes is on the doorstep of the historic Hafod Estate. Alas the mansion house burned down, but the gardens have been restored and provide ample walks, from a gentle stroll to a more vigorous clamber through forest trails. A personal favourite of Toby's is one of the more strenuous walks, to the Cavern Cascade (marked as Grotto on the OS maps) - part of The Gentleman's Walk - where you can go into a noisy tunnel and peer at this astonishing waterfall. Image on Flickr. Image on Redbubble Friends of Hafod Hafod Walks
Artists and nature lovers will be inspired by the stunning views on both sides of the Ystwyth valley. Just a short stroll up the hill behind the cottage will provide a panoramic view over the Cambrian mountains.
In order for you to get the most out of your visit, we’ve put this cottage website together for you to familiarise yourself with everything, both indoors and out in the surrounding countryside. You will find a paper handbook at the house.
The index on the right should enable you to find what you are looking for, but if we’ve missed anything, do let us know and we’ll add it later.
We’ve begged, borrowed and stolen from local history resources and the internet to put this guide together, but have added enough hyperlinks for you to use it as a base from which to explore further.
Enjoy! Julie, Toby and Digby & Basil (the dogs)
