eviivo Awards 2019
Sweetest Homestay Award
2019 Winner
Wernddofn
Boncath, Pembrokeshire
About the Property
Peace and tranquillity are guaranteed at these countryside cottages nestled at the base of the Preseli Hills in Pembrokeshire. Each cottage is fully self-contained with their own separate access and have private gardens to unwind in. The cottages are not overlooked and have all the amenities for a pleasant relaxed stay.
The Judges Said
“At these self-catered cottages in the countryside, peace and tranquillity are guaranteed for all guests young and old alike.
Surrounded by rolling green fields, guests are guaranteed privacy, which is respected by the helpful hosts, who do everything they can to guarantee a pleasant stay.
The judges especially liked how warm and welcoming the hosts are and how their personal touch makes this place stand out from other self-catered properties.”
Shortlisted Properties
The Bull Pen
Cambridge, Cambridgeshire
The unique selling point at this holiday let is the combination of city and countryside. The property is only 8 miles from Cambridge but is located in countryside, on the edge of a family run farm. The homely barn is not overlooked (except by cows) and the garden with beech hedging gives a secluded space for guests to relax in privacy.
RONDEVA
Chester, Cheshire
This stunning Grade II listed property faces The River Dee in Chester, offering fabulous views. Guests can use the private moorings to sit on or, if they want to, bring a boat! Guests are left to their own devices with self-catering facilities that often surpass expectations and the freedom to enjoy life on the river or the city close by.
East Lodge Bolney
Bolney, West Sussex
East Lodge was built in 1870 and designed by E. M. Barry, architect of the Royal Opera House in London, which shows just how elegant a property this homestay is. Set within a 25 acre private estate in the South Downs National Park, this home from home is a dream for those wanting to get away from it all in luxurious surroundings.
The Apartment, Bath
Bath, Somerset
Traditional yet contemporary amenities set this homestay apart from the rest. With original sash windows and iron fireplaces alongside super-fast broadband, motion activated LED lighting and a fully integrated digital entertainment system, guests are treated to a stay in a stylish Grade II listed building with practicality built in.
Inverness Glamping
Inverness, Invernesshire
Heating and heavy insulation allows for an all year round experience at these luxury glamping pods. The beds are comfortable, quirky and cosy, which really makes for a hotel room in the outdoors. Resident chickens roam free and are a highlight for many – and many a story is shared around the communal fire pit over a wee whisky at times!
Wolds Away
Huggate, North Yorkshire
Welcomed with afternoon tea and then left to make themselves at home, guests arriving at this property will be bowled over by the outstanding views of the Yorkshire Wolds from their intimate lodges. Relaxing with prosecco in their own private hot tubs admiring the view, guests won’t have a care in the world.
Clan Cottages
Kilmore, Argyl
Situated on the shores of Loch Nell, these holiday cottages are presented in the form of a Celtic settlement. The thatched roofs of the cottages, their proximity and uninterrupted views to the Loch and river, and the grouping of cottages within a traditional layout now blend into their surroundings as if they’d been there forever.
West Mead Cottages
Thornton Hough, Merseyside
Approached along a tree-lined driveway filled with wildflowers, this cottage oozes country charm while combining modern luxuries with home away from home practicalities – there is even a hot tub to soak in. Popular with walkers, cyclists and dog owners looking for activities or those simply wanting a blissfully peaceful and private break.
Braunston Mill Country Retreats
Braunston, Northamptonshire
At this 19th century restored windmill and cottage, guests are treated to every possible mod con whilst still able to enjoy the original character of the building. Featuring an enclosed private garden with outdoor seating, barbeque for guests to enjoy, and plush furnishings and comprehensive facilities – guests can feel right at home.
Self-catering and apartment accommodation has experienced a boom in recent years, driven by the popularity of staycations and the demands of business travellers wanting a well-furnished alternative to the uninspiring chain hotel room. The Sweetest Homestay Award recognises the very best of these properties, which come in a fabulous variety of forms, offering something different while maintaining the highest standards of comfort and ensuring privacy for guests who want their space For Their Eyes Only.
Sweetest Homestay Award judging criteria
- The accommodation will most likely offer self-catering facilities.
- The host will ensure the guests’ privacy is maintained.
- There may be extra services offered to guests.
- Judges will determine if the property stands out from other homestays.
Meet the expert helping judge this category
Lee Hayhurst
Head of News at Travel Weekly & Travolution Editor