There is a 'generous feel' about this small guest house, a red brick Victorian vicarage high in the hills of the Welsh Marches and with fine views of the Montgomeryshire countryside. The owners, Tim and Helen Withers, 'combine consummate professionalism with friendliness and informality', say visitors in 2009. 'The welcome was warm, with tea, and Welsh cakes straight from the oven.' The lounge, with log fire, is decorated in period style. There are antique tables and candles in the dining room. Mr Withers, who was 'brought up in the Elizabeth David tradition', serves 'wholesome, very fresh' food on a limited-choice menu. 'Our meal was superb: smoked salmon bavarois; Welsh Black beef; brill; marmalade sponge with the freshest home-made custard.' Most of the ingredients, and the wines on a short list, are organic. 'Breakfast was equally good: home-made muesli, bread and marmalade, eggs from the happy-looking hens we passed on the way in, everything from local suppliers.' Bedrooms have 'all modern comforts: flat-screen TV, sherry, chocolates'. 'Everything we needed, and a sizeable bathroom with good towels. Tea was brought in the morning.' 'A peaceful setting. Ideal walking country near the start of the Kerry Ridgeway.' (Sarah and Tony Thomas, JR)
Old Vicarage, Dolfor, special green offer
Guests who arrive by rail, bus, bicycle or on foot qualify for a 30% reduction on the standard room rate. Another special offer is that you can dine for half price if you stay for three nights. The special offers are separate and cannot be used together.
Please mention The Good Hotel Guide when booking.