4 minute read
A Fortuitous Detour to Wales
A Dream Escape trip-of-a-lifetime to Wales, seamlessly experiencing the finest hotels, promises sublime hospitality, exquisite design, and the unparalleled, diverse beauty.
Discover Wales with a Dream Escape journey to two exceptional Seren hotels, The Grove of Narberth and Penmaenuchaf, showcasing their exquisite interiors and recently refurbished charm across both North and South Wales.
Seren owners Neil and Zoe Kedward had an unusual entrance to the world of hospitality, one born from a desire to escape both city and corporate life. On a family trip to Pembrokeshire, a serendipitous, unplanned detour led them to stumble upon a derelict and unloved old country house, Grove. Neil jokes that he could feel the magic from that very first visit, and they put an offer in on the house that same day. Unbeknownst to them at the time, this pivotal moment set them on a trajectory to build a much-loved and highly successful independent hospitality enterprise in Wales, culminating in the establishment of the Grove of Narberth, several restaurants and later, Penmaenuchaf.
Imagine a meticulously tailored Dream Escape itinerary to Wales, a captivating dualcation stay in these two outstanding hotel properties, designed to unveil the very best of both the south and north. Both establishments boast sublime interiors and have benefited from recent renovations and refurbishments, ensuring a luxurious and profoundly inspiring sojourn.
The Grove of Narberth stands as one of Wales's most luxurious hotels, gracefully nestled in the heart of Pembrokeshire with sweeping views towards the Preseli Hills. This elegant property, situated amidst the rolling Narberth hills and mere minutes from the world-renowned Pembrokeshire coastline, invites guests to reside within its stately house or one of its charming cottages. Guests can revel in the tranquillity of the meticulously manicured lawns, adorned with vibrant flower borders and a gently meandering stream.
The interiors are equally exquisite; bedrooms are opulent havens, retaining original features and imbued with distinct character. The stunningly designed spaces artfully utilise local materials alongside vintage and upcycled treasures, culminating in a truly dreamlike destination. The Grove offers two distinguished dining experiences: the fine dining Fernery, which proudly holds three coveted AA Rosettes, and the more relaxed and informal Artisan Rooms. Both restaurants champion locally sourced produce from their own kitchen garden and the verdant Pembrokeshire countryside.
For guests seeking unparalleled pampering, deep cast-iron baths and in-room massages are available. A mere mile down the road, the vibrant market town of Narberth is a treasure trove of independent shops, including Ultracomida – widely regarded as one of the finest delis in the country, offering a delightful spot for a continental lunch in its intimate dining area. Beyond Narberth, the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast Path beckons, offering spectacular coastal walks and opportunities to explore charming seaside towns like Tenby and Saundersfoot, or visit the historic St Davids Cathedral, the smallest city in the UK.
Further north, within the breathtaking expanse of the iconic Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, lies the Michelin-Keyed Penmaenuchaf. This intimate luxury hotel is widely regarded as one of the finest privatelyowned country house hotels in North Wales. Perched majestically above the Mawddach estuary at the foot of the rugged Cadair Idris, one discovers the stonefronted Penmaenuchaf, truly a "land of longing."
Inspired by the dramatic ancient landscape of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, this grand old house possesses its own rich history, with each room offering a unique and characterful appeal. This mountain retreat is undergoing a meticulous refurbishment, with phase two of its restoration introducing Nicola Harding’s striking designs to five additional bedrooms and creating a new lounge bar adorned with rich mahogany panelling and sumptuous red velvet seating.
Adventure abounds in this ‘land of longing,’ replete with tales of Welsh myth and legend as fantastical as the scenery before you. Penmaenuchaf offers the perfect base from which to explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of North Wales. Guests can embark on challenging hikes up Cadair Idris, enjoy leisurely strolls along the Mawddach Trail, or delve into the region's industrial heritage at the slate caverns of Blaenau Ffestiniog, and visit the charming coastal towns of Barmouth and Fairbourne with pristine beaches and watersports.
Words: Samantha Rutherford
