All about Nant yr Onnen

All about Nant yr Onnen

Terrace Garden at The Cabin

After a few years of city living, Tim and Fiona hankered for a more rural, sustainable lifestyle. They found Nant yr Onnen in 2000 after two years of looking at more than 200 places. They knew the moment they turned up the lane - even in the late October drizzle! - that it was the place they had been searching for. They made an offer the next morning without even seeing inside the buildings. The 200 year old stone cottage with its stream and little waterfalls, ancient oak, ash, birch and willow trees, and apple trees planted by families long ago was enough to convince them it would become their home and also eventually the home of The Cabin. Nearby, they also have their self-catering barn, if you need a bit more space.

Design

The Cabin was one of their first projects. Fiona worked out the design, inspired in part by the Roundhouse on the cliffs at Druidstone in Pembrokeshire, and supervised local carpenters to construct it. Fiona and her daughters decorated it, and it became a favourite place for visitors who wanted a bit of privacy and silence. The design with its large windows makes the most of the stunning views, while the interior is inspired by Fiona's love of India.

Environmental policy

Fiona and Tim have always tried to be careful about their environmental footprint. They explored several options for generating their own electricity and happily discovered that they were in an ideal location for a micro hydro generator, which generates a steady 3kW for about half the year. They've shunned central heating with its noisy pumps in favour of wood burning stoves in all their buildings, and are very fortunate to have a constant supply of wood from the management of trees within their own land. Their water comes from a spring in the hill above the cottage and is stored in an old milk tanker. The compost loo was inspired by one which was built by some friends. Their most recent project has been the construction of a dozen raised beds for growing vegetables, the produce of which is available for guests to buy.

Wildlife

Nant yr Onnen is a wonderful place for wildlife. From the Cabin itself it's possible to see redkites, cuckoos, woodpeckers, nuthatches, buzzards, henharriers, goshawks and sparrowhawks, while finches, tits and wrens are plentiful. The land surrounding Nant yr Onnen is a nature reserve with ancient oak forests as well as mountain streams and waterfalls all close by.

In & around The Cabin

• 2 ring electric hob in the cabin
• Toaster
• Use of brick BBQ nearby
• Kettle with coffee and teas
• Fridge with ice compartment
• Pots, pans and accessories
• Crockery and cutlery for four

• Double and single duvets, pillows and covers provided
• Hand, bath and tea towels all provided

• Games and books
• No TV!
• Table tennis in the barn
• Tree swing for the brave. (at guests own risk)
• Tim and Fiona are musicians and invite guests to bring their instruments and make music on weekend evenings. They also have an extensive range of instruments which guests can play or borrow including a guitar and djembe drum in The Cabin

• Binoculars
• A good book or two
• Walking boots
• The wood-burner inside and the chiminea outside The Cabin are only for heating. Kindling and firewood provided

• Check in time is from 3pm
• Check out time is 11am
• Kids are welcome at The Cabin, but there is only a small (1.5 metre) childs bed, which doubles as seating in the day
• The folding bed is 4ft across, which could prove problematic for some guests
• There is a compost loo about ten metres from The Cabin
• As The Cabin is surrounded by sheep, pets cannot be accommodated
• A basket of firewood is provided, additional firewood can be collected or chopped from supplies on-site
• There is no mobile phone signal anywhere near The Cabin. There is a payphone at the pub five minutes walk away and guests can use the cottage landline in an emergency
• Nant yr Onnen is surrounded by hills and feels quite remote. The Cabin itself is set just next to the private track that connects the 2.5 acres of Nant yr Onnen, with the outside world

Getting there

The Cabin, Nant yr Onnen, nr Llandovery, Dyfed SA20 0PE

By car

Follow the A40 west through Llandovery, squeeze past the Castle Hotel and wind sharply to the right past Llandovery College on your right. Take the next turning to the right, just before the railway crossing, signposted 'A483 Builth Wells'. Follow that road for about 200 metres, then take the first road left, signposted for 'Rhandirmwyn'.

Follow that road for approximately 7 miles, to Rhandir-mwyn village. Continue past the Royal Oak pub and after a mile or so you’ll see SLOW/ARAF written on the road - take the left fork signposted 'Cilycwm, Cwrt-y-Cadno and Pumpsaint'.

Continue down the slope and across the bridge. Turn left past the Towy Bridge Inn, drive about 250 metres and you'll see the dotted lines across the entrance to the drive on the right. Go all the way up to the end of the drive, through the gate. The Cabin has its own car parking space where you can park after unloading.

By train

There is a regular direct service to Llandovery from Carmarthen. Pick-ups can be arranged.

By bus

There are bus services from Swansea to Llandovery. Pick-ups can be arranged.

If you are getting to the Cabin by train, bus or any other non-car means you can think of be sure to take a photo and enter our Go Greenly competition to win a 4 night stay at The Wagon or The Ark.

Local activities

Outdoor & active

The Upper Towy Valley, surrounded by the Cambrian mountains and only 40 mins drive from the Brecon Beacons, has many opportunities for walkers, mountain bikers and those of an outdoors disposition. It all starts as soon as you step outside the Cabin, with some great walking possibilities. You can even canoe, kayak or fish on the river at the end of the drive.

Here are just a few of the many options, outdoors...

There are stunning walks in every direction from the Cabin - or drive to the Llyn Brianne reservoir and start from there.

There is a bike trail at Cwm Rhaeadr and also a pushchair and wheelchair friendly walk.

It's possible to go horse riding along the many bridle paths that are nearby.

The Dinas Nature Reserve has a lovely circular walk among the waterfalls of the upper Towy valley. Run by the RSPB, it's a fantastic place for bird watchers and it seems also Welsh fugitives. Legend has it that Twm Sion Cati, the Welsh outlaw, hid in the caves here. Also, just past Pwllpriddog Farm notice the heavily pollarded hollow oak tree on the side of the road. Reputed to have been planted in the 12th century, when much of the valley was owned by the Abbey Strata of Florida. If true, it would make this tree and two others like it on the Dinas reserve, over 700 years old.

Places to visit

Castles

The region has several castles that are open to the public.

The spectacular Carreg Cennen sits high on a rocky crag with magnificent views of the Black Mountain and Towy Valley. The dark cave beneath the castle is worth exploring too.

Dinefwr Castle, a 20 minute drive away, dates from the 9th century and is considered one of the most important castles in Wales. It's in the grounds of Dinefwr Park, also home to Newton House. The Park is a beautiful place for an afternoon stroll. Watch out for the many deer. There are events held within the park from March to November.

In the surrounding area there are many old lead and gold mines, drovers trails and ancient shelters waiting to be discovered on long walks.

Parks, gardens & nature reserves

There are a number of parks, gardens and nature reserves within easy reach of Nant yr Onnen.

The ancient gardens of Aberglasney are delightful. In a few hours you can discover its

Photo by Tom Roberts

pools, cloister walk and ancient Yew tunnels as well as many rare plants.

The National Botanic Gardens of Wales boast numerous attractions including the world's largest single span greenhouse, a Mediterranean garden, and the Wallace garden honouring famous Welsh botanist Alfred Russell Wallace.

Dinefwr Park is an 18th century landscaped park with nature reserve, bog wood and deer park surrounding the carefully restored Newton House. Home to the ancient herd of Dinefwr White Park cattle.

An RSPB nature reserve borders Nant yr Onnen and there's a Red Kite feeding station nearby.

Although it might feel like you're in the middle of nowhere, there are beautiful beaches 1 hour away, both to the West and South.

Local towns & villages

Llandovery is a good place to while away an afternoon. The town is bordered by the River Towy and the River Bran. In the Heritage Centre next to Llandovery Castle you can learn about Twm Sion Cati and William Williams, famous for being an outlaw and writing Welsh hymns respectively. You can also learn about the history and myths surrounding the Physicians of Myddfai. Other things to see in the town include Llanfair church, the site of the old drovers bank, Bank of the Black Ox, Llandovery College and the old printing works.

Llandeilo has a number of excellent pubs, cafes, restaurants and art galleries.

Rhandirmwyn and Cilycwm Village Shows in August are definitely worth a visit for a heady mix of eating, drinking and old-fashioned fun. The sheep dog trials are a highlight.

Eating & drinking

Eating & drinking at Nant yr Onnen

Fiona provides the basics for The Cabin and can point you in the direction of some great local shops.

Pubs & restaurants

Towy Bridge Inn, Rhandirmwyn (5 minute walk). Full of friendly locals, it's a great place for a pint or two, especially on a Friday night.

Neuadd Fawr Arms

Ty Te Twm, Rhandirmwyn (5 minute walk). Ask for Sian’s special Chocachino, cream teas or famous curries (although probably best not eaten together in one sitting).

Neuadd Fawr Arms, Cilycwm (3 miles). The local gastropub - excellent Sunday lunch and evening meals.

West End Café, Llandovery (9 miles). The massive Sunday roasts are legendary and bring in bikers on the weekend from far and wide.

All about Nant yr Onnen

Terrace Garden at The Cabin

After a few years of city living, Tim and Fiona hankered for a more rural, sustainable lifestyle. They found Nant yr Onnen in 2000 after two years of looking at more than 200 places. They knew the moment they turned up the lane - even in the late October drizzle! - that it was the place they had been searching for. They made an offer the next morning without even seeing inside the buildings. The 200 year old stone cottage with its stream and little waterfalls, ancient oak, ash, birch and willow trees, and apple trees planted by families long ago was enough to convince them it would become their home and also eventually the home of The Cabin. Nearby, they also have their self-catering barn, if you need a bit more space.

Design

The Cabin was one of their first projects. Fiona worked out the design, inspired in part by the Roundhouse on the cliffs at Druidstone in Pembrokeshire, and supervised local carpenters to construct it. Fiona and her daughters decorated it, and it became a favourite place for visitors who wanted a bit of privacy and silence. The design with its large windows makes the most of the stunning views, while the interior is inspired by Fiona's love of India.

Environmental policy

Fiona and Tim have always tried to be careful about their environmental footprint. They explored several options for generating their own electricity and happily discovered that they were in an ideal location for a micro hydro generator, which generates a steady 3kW for about half the year. They've shunned central heating with its noisy pumps in favour of wood burning stoves in all their buildings, and are very fortunate to have a constant supply of wood from the management of trees within their own land. Their water comes from a spring in the hill above the cottage and is stored in an old milk tanker. The compost loo was inspired by one which was built by some friends. Their most recent project has been the construction of a dozen raised beds for growing vegetables, the produce of which is available for guests to buy.

Wildlife

Nant yr Onnen is a wonderful place for wildlife. From the Cabin itself it's possible to see redkites, cuckoos, woodpeckers, nuthatches, buzzards, henharriers, goshawks and sparrowhawks, while finches, tits and wrens are plentiful. The land surrounding Nant yr Onnen is a nature reserve with ancient oak forests as well as mountain streams and waterfalls all close by.

Booking terms for The Cabin

Booking Conditions

Please note that Canopy & Stars is acting as an 'Agent' in the booking of The Cabin on behalf of Fiona Mcinnes-Craig (hereafter referred to as the 'Owner'). The Owner of the property is responsible for your stay and is the 'Principal' in this agreement. Customers renting property through Canopy & Stars are referred to as the Guest. The rental arrangements are made by Canopy & Stars, on behalf of the Owners and the contractual relationship is directly between the Owners of the property and the Guest.

The Canopy & Stars booking line (01275 395 447) is open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm except on public holidays. When using the online enquiry form, please allow 24 working hours for us to contact you by telephone to confirm the booking. If we are unable to reach you by phone we will attempt to contact you by email. We will contact you during Canopy & Stars working hours. Online enquiries will be dealt with in the order they are received, but please be aware that we cannot guarantee reservation of your selected dates until the receipt of suitable payment.

1. Booking and payments

1.1 The dates of your booking will be held upon payment of a non-refundable deposit of 25% or payment in full. Deposits are only payable when booking more than 10 weeks in advance of your check in date. Any booking less than 10 weeks in advance of your check in date must be paid in full immediately.

1.2 On receipt of the deposit, a booking confirmation will be sent to you within 24 hours in the case of email and seven working days in the case of post, containing the details of your stay and of payments made and due. If you have not received your booking confirmation within the specified time, please notify us as soon as possible. We're sorry for any inconvenience, but payments can only be made by credit and debit cards. A 2% surcharge will be applied to credit cards. We do not accept American Express, cheques or cash.

1.3 Where a deposit has been paid, full balance payment will be due 10 weeks in advance of your check in date and a reminder will be sent to you two weeks prior to this date, where applicable, by email. If you are unable to pay the balance before the stated due date, you will forfeit your deposit and your booking will be cancelled.

2. Cancellation

2.1 Cancellation by you at any time will result in your deposit being forfeited, as all deposits are non-refundable.

2.2 All monies paid for a holiday (deposit and balance) are non-refundable within 10 weeks before check in date.

2.3 Cancellation of any holiday after it has been paid in full and at a date 10 weeks or more in advance of your check in date, will result in forfeiture of your deposit (or an amount equivalent where one was not paid as the holiday was paid in full) and the balance being returned to you.

2.4 Cancellation insurance is available but will be a third party arrangement and not involve Canopy & Stars or the Owner in any way.

2.5 If the location of your booking is inaccessible due to adverse conditions your booking can be deferred to a later date subject to availability and at discretion of Canopy & Stars on behalf of the owner of the property.

3. Alteration

3.1 Alterations to your booking can only be made more than 10 weeks prior to the check in date, after which time alterations will be treated as cancellation. All alterations will incur a £30 administration fee and are subject to availability and at the discretion of Canopy & Stars on behalf of the Owner of the property.

3.2 Differences in the total amount payable resulting from alterations will be refunded to you in the case of a decrease in price and paid by you in the case of increases in price.

4. Complaints

In the event that you have any complaint about your stay, please notify the Owner of the property as soon as possible and they will use all reasonable endeavours to resolve the issue. Whether or not your complaint is dealt with satisfactorily, please also contact us as we appreciate all feedback.

5. Pricing

Prices on the website are not binding, but costs stated in any booking confirmation email you receive from Canopy & Stars will be honoured as shown and will include all VAT and any charges.

6. Information

Information on the website is correct to the best of our knowledge, but circumstances outside of our control may cause it to become inaccurate. We apologise for any inconvenience that may result from this.

7. Liability

7.1 Canopy & Stars accept no liability for accident, loss of property or personal injury whilst on your stay.

7.2 Canopy & Stars will not be liable for any act, neglect or default on the part of the Owners or any other person not within their employ or otherwise under their control, nor for any accident, damage, loss, injury, expense or inconvenience, whether to person or property, which the Guest or any other person may suffer or incur arising out of, or in any way connected with the rental unless Canopy & Stars is responsible. In addition, the Owners and Canopy & Stars accept no liability for loss of or damage to the Guest’s possessions on the Owners’ property or land.

7.3 Nothing in these conditions excludes or limits the liability of Canopy & Stars or the Owners:

a. for death or personal injury caused by Canopy & Stars or the Owners negligence.

b. for any matter which it would be illegal for Canopy & Stars or the Owners to exclude or attempt to exclude their liability.

7.4 The use of swimming pools, lakes, climbing trees, tractor rides and any other activity on the Owners land is the responsibility of the Guest and is done so at their own risk.

8. Pets

Pets are only permitted with the prior consent of Canopy & Stars and the Owners and where pets are permitted they are to be kept under control. Pets must not be left in the Property unsupervised as this could result in damage to the Property and distress to the animal(s). A weekly charge may be made for each pet.

9. VAT

Many of the Owners of properties in the Canopy & Stars portfolio are not registered for VAT in which case no tax is payable. Where VAT is payable the tax is included in the weekly rent.

10. The Holiday – Guest Conditions of occupancy and Conduct

10.1 The Guests have the right to occupy the Property for the paid for holiday period only (within the meaning of Schedule 1 Paragraph 9 of the Housing Act 1988).

10.2 Guests undertake to behave in a proper, appropriate and legal manner with due respect to the Owner, the Property and other guests and their property. If any guest behaves inappropriately or improperly (of which the Owner will be the final judge on their Property), or illegally, the Owner reserves the right to ask the guest and their party (at their discretion) to leave the Property before the end of the holiday period. Any refund for so doing will be at the entire discretion of the Owner in consultation with the Agents. In addition, the Owner reserves the right to sue the guest for any loss, damage or injury caused to the Owner, the Property or to other guests and/or their property.

11. Breach of Booking Conditions

11.1 If there is a breach of any of these conditions by the Guest or any of their party, the Owners or Canopy & Stars reserve the right to re-enter the Property and end the holiday and ask the Guest and their party to leave in addition to their other rights specified in these Booking Conditions.

11.2 Ending the Holiday by either the Owners or Canopy & Stars, or the Guests does not affect that party’s other rights and remedies.

12 Governing Law and Jurisdiction

Any dispute will be governed by the non-exclusive law and jurisdiction of the English or Scottish Courts depending on the location of the Property.

13. Authority to Sign

The person who signs the Booking Form certifies that:

1. he or she is authorised to agree the Booking Conditions on behalf of all persons included in the Booking Form, including those substituted or added at a later date;
2. the signatory is over eighteen years of age;
3. they agree to take responsibility for the party occupying the Property, and to notify Canopy & Stars if they are not a member of the holiday party.

14. Discrepancies

In case of a discrepancy between these Booking Conditions and any other Canopy & Stars literature, these Booking Conditions shall prevail.

15. Validity clause

In the event that a court finds that a condition in these Booking Conditions is illegal or void, the illegal or void provision will be severed from the remainder of the Booking Conditions, which will continue to be valid and have full force and effect.