Packed full of history, Nanteos is a country house that happens to be a hotel. The building sits on the site of a house that dates back to 11th century and the walls and original flooring can be found in the hotel’s cellars.

Nanteos is known for housing the Nanteos Cup – supposedly made from the true cross, with the ability to heal those who drink from it. The cup is now housed in the National Library of Wales and a replica is on display in the hotel reception. It was originally put on display in 1878 by George Powell, owner of the Nanteos estate.

The building of Nanteos as it is now known, began in 1739 and in its heyday the estate covered 33,000 acres. Now covering 30 acres, guests tend to visit Nanteos for a relaxing break with great food and to explore the local countryside and coastal scenery. The property is dog-friendly.

Many of the original features remain, including the original Buttery complete with the range, copper pans and range kettles, this is now the breakfast room. There are worn stone flagged floors throughout the ground floor, the house is full of original art including the portraits of the original owners, antiques are on display but the house doesn’t feel stuffy, there is a warm Welsh welcome for all guests.

There is very little light pollution, so ideal for stargazers. Guests can use the hotel’s bikes or bring their own to explore the Ystwyth Trail, a 21 mile bike route directly from the hotel which follows the old Aberystwyth to Cardiff decommissioned train line. The route takes in Strata Florida, a former Cistercian monastery.