Both Gaer and Skirrid Cottage offer the perfect home for visitors looking to sample the great Welsh combination of beautiful surroundings, wonderful walking and rich history. Located at Cwm-coed-y-Cerrig, which means 'Valley of woods and rocks', the cottages were converted from a 17th century barn. Positioned near the owner's house, Gaer and Skirrid Cottage enjoy a 45 acre site of ancient meadows and woodlands that have been left undisturbed for many years. The interiors are rustic, but comfortable with Skirrid Cottage sleeping 3 (or 4 if you wish to make use of a 'put you up' bed) and Gaer Cottage sleeping 4. Footpaths lead up from the cottage's garden directly to the surrounding hills, and the wonderful landscape of the Llanthony Valley is on your doorstep. After you've enjoyed a days walking make sure you visit the atmospheric Skirrid Inn - reputed to be Wales' oldest pub.
Cottage accommodation
Gaer Cottage has a fitted kitchen with electric cooker, microwave, fridge and freezer with a lovely pine dining table and chairs. The sitting room is comfortable with a sofa, chairs, TV, CD player and Wi-Fi and has a stable door which opens on to the patio.
Also on the ground floor is
Bedroom 1: a pretty double bedroom with an en suite containing a bath, with shower over, toilet and handbasin.
Upstairs to
Bedroom 2: a double bedroom, attractively decorated with an en suite with bath, with shower over, toilet and handbasin.
Useful information
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.
Abergavenny 6 miles, Crickhowell 6.5 miles, Monmouth 18 miles.
Learn more about Crickhowell, Abergavenny and Brecon here.
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
