Ruthlin

• Sleeps: 2
• Bedroom: 1
• Bathroom: 1
• Minimum stay: 1 night

Ruthlin is set in nine glorious acres of meadowland by the River Monnow, on an old farm at the point where England meets Wales.

Guests are welcome to immerse themselves in the outrageous luxury and heady romance of the farm’s former garage (yes, you read that right!): now beautifully converted into a dreamlike cottage with sumptuous décor and a living grass roof.

A mere mile from the medieval village of Skenfrith, and just six miles from Monmouth, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a tranquil, wildlife-steeped world that’s all your own. Otters and kingfishers are among the myriad creatures who call Ruthlin home, along with a diverse, colourful array of plants, birds, and butterflies.

Owners James and Sarah have styled and furnished their beloved cottage with rural opulence in mind. Decorative flourishes include ornate Lucie Annabel wallpaper, there’s an electric Aga for comforting, country-style warmth, and the LUSSO designer bathroom is made for languorous bubble-soaks in the freestanding tub… with a luxury scented candle, handmade soap, robes and a bath pillow all gainfully provided.

There’s no television here, because with views this outstanding, you won’t need one. Instead, cosy armchairs look out across the garden to the meadowland beyond, with a bird feeder and binoculars for extra entertainment! Yet if you really have to stay in touch with the digital world, the Wi-Fi connection is fast and reliable.

You’ll also have a Bluetooth speaker and a ready supply of books and games to help you while away that precious holiday time. On balmy evenings, wander outside and eat supper at the picnic table, before lighting the firepit and getting lost in long, deep, laughter-fuelled conversation… the kind there’s just no time for at home.

You could also head up to the living grass roof just in time to catch the sun sinking gently over the Monnow Valley (the views go very nicely with a G&T!). There’s a valley-facing bench especially primed for the evening sun, too, for mesmerising scenery that changes with your mood.

At a glance

• A romantic and luxurious retreat, set in the nine-acre grounds of a historic working farm on the banks of the River Monnow, on the English/Welsh border.
• Full self-contained facilities include a well-equipped kitchen with an electric Aga, and a designer bathroom with a freestanding tub.
• There is ample outdoor space with plenty of seating for lazy afternoons, sunset-watching, and starlit evenings by the firepit.
• Steal up to the living grass roof to watch the sun sinking over the Monnow Valley – bliss.
• You are welcome to explore the grounds, discover the beach, and take dips in the river.
• The medieval village of Skenfrith is just one mile away, and Monmouth can be reached in six. Hay-on-Wye is around 45 minutes away by car.

Features

• Adults Only
• Off-Grid

More information

When it’s finally time to turn in, there’s a kingsize bed with a feather duvet, soft pillows, and Egyptian cotton linen for sound nights of slumber.

What to do after morning coffee and a hearty, home-cooked breakfast? You’ll be very welcome to explore these idyllic grounds – there’s a circular path that leads you straight to the beach – or enjoy a refreshing dip in the river. Sarah and James will happily let you know where the best swimming spots are, as well as their personal recommendations for longer walks, local attractions, and where to eat…

…that is, if you can bear to leave.

Things to note

This is adults-only accommodation. Regrettably, pets are not permitted to stay (excluding registered assistance dogs by prior arrangement only). Note that the family live on site and you may catch the occasional glimpse of them during your stay, but the retreat is private, self-contained and completely yours. Please let the owners know if you are celebrating something special: a dinner table can be laid for you by the river, or larger al fresco meals can be arranged on request.