Skirrid Cottage is a perfect cottage for visitors looking to sample the great Welsh combination of beautiful landscapes, wonderful walking, rich history and tranquillity. The Welsh name of the original farmhouse sounds romantic and is 'Valley of woods and rocks'. Skirrid Cottage shares 45 acres of ancient meadows and woodlands that have been left undisturbed for many years. The interior has an "olde worlde feel" but has all the modern day conveniences. Skirrid Cottage sleeps 3/4 visitors and next door Gaer Cottage will sleep 4. Footpaths from the cottages straight onto the surrounding hills with the interesting villages of Cwmyoy with its crooked church and Llantony with the Priory and Abbey just up the valley.
Offa's Dyke Path, Llanthony Abbey and The Llantony Valley leading through to The Gospel Pass and Hay Bluff are all set in truly magnificent countryside painted over the centuries by many famous artists. Visit the Downey Barn Galley in Cwmyoy. After you've enjoyed a days walking try The Queens Head near Cwmyoy or another excellent gastro-pub is The Crown at Pantygelli but "book first" if going for a meal.
Cottage accommodationSkirrid Cottage has a fitted kitchen with electric cooker, microwave, fridge/freezer and washing machine. There is a lovely antique pine dresser and dining table and chairs. The sitting room is comfortable with a piano, sofa, chairs, TV and Wi-Fi.
Bedroom 1: is a single room with an en suite containing a bath, with shower over, toilet and handbasin.
Upstairs to
Bedroom 2: with a brass king-sized bed and en suite with bath, with shower over, toilet and handbasin.
Useful information
Abergavenny 6 miles, Crickhowell 6.5 miles, Monmouth 18 miles.
Learn more about Crickhowell, Abergavenny and Brecon here.Attractive cottages in a nature lovers paradise
Both Gaer and Skirrid Cottage are a charming mix of traditional and modern features. Many of the walls are exposed stone and there are traditional beams, doors and windows throughout. However both cottages also offer en-suite bathrooms to all bedrooms, comfortable furnishings and Wi-Fi internet connection. Outside each cottage boasts a spacious, private patio and the cottages share the large lawned area from which footpaths lead through the land directly to the hills beyond.
Set amidst an atmospheric and dramatic landscape
Skirrid and Gaer Cottage sit on the side of The Gaer (means Fort) Mountain which makes up the Southern side of the spectacular Llanthony Valley, which in turn leads to the Gospel Pass. The 12th century cleric Giraldus Cambrensis commented on the area's "hushed atmosphere" and this is still noticeable today with strange acoustics due to the closeness of the hills on all sides. The uniquely spiritual atmosphere here has drawn artists, monks, writers and mystics to make this area their home for many hundreds of years. The Gospel Pass itself has been a way through the Vale of Erywas since the time of Iron Age Man and taking the route through the mountains yourself you are struck by how little the area must have changed since those times.
Take the short trip down to Llanthony Priory one of the earliest monasteries founded in Britain. Entry is free but take a little money and treat yourself to a pint or glass of something cool from the bar at the hotel situated on site and sit in the peaceful and atmospheric grounds of this 13th century ruin.
Discover the myths surrounding the Skirrid Mountain
The countryside surrounding Gaer and Skirrid Cottage provides some fabulous walking and cycle trails. The nearby Skirrid Mountain is rich in legend and mystery. It's unusual shape has given rise to numerous superstitions. According to one, the notch on its west side was caused by the underside of Noah's ark and others claim that the ravine which splits the mountain in two appeared when a bolt of lightning marked Christ's crucifixion.
Choose a walking route over the mountain that brings you pass Llanvihangel Court and the peacocks that patrol the grounds there. Then quench your thirst at the ancient Skirrid Inn ' reputed to be Wales' oldest pub. Read up on the legends and its history first, you wouldn't want to miss the old hanging beam or the mounting block outside, used by many of England's past Kings.
Discover the mysteries of the Skirrid Mountain by booking online or, alternatively you can book by calling our office on 01874 676446.
If you would like to speak to someone who has visited this property please ask for:
Elizabeth or Caroline
