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 

Lee Hayhurst has been covering news in the travel sector for the last 14 years. He first joined leading UK trade title Travel Weekly in 2005, and continues to work there in his current position of Head of News. Since 2008, he has also edited Travel Weekly’s Travolution title, which focuses on technology and the online and digital sectors in travel both in the UK and globally. 

Read More