Ty Mawr

With the vast Brechfa Forest on its margins, this ‘gorgeous, lovely hotel’ whose gardens are bordered by the River Marlais is perfect for hikers and bikers. Dogs stay free; biscuits, bowls and information on local walks are provided by owners Paul Bennett and Melissa Hurley as well as a ‘wonderful warm welcome’. Since arriving in 2019 they have been updating interiors in the 16th-century country house, and have plans for the gardens. ‘Spacious, clean and comfortable’ bedrooms are beautifully styled, with antiques, perhaps a sleigh bed, beams, bare stone, and Myddfai toiletries. Dryslwyn was once the loom room. Coedwig Brechfa, with its own front door, super-king-size bed, separate seating area and sofa bed, has been a stable and bakery. Or when it’s night above the dingle starry, retire to Dylan Thomas-inspired ground-floor, Laugharne. 
Paul’s scrupulously sourced nightly menu might include North Sea cod, creamed borlotti beans, lime and herb crust. ‘Meals were tasty and always served with a smile.’ At breakfast there is porridge with local honey and Penderyn whisky, free-range eggs, maybe juiced garden apples. (Nicky Noble, Ian Jervis)