AEL Y BRYN (Cardigan)

Here’s the challenge. Can you find anything amiss at Ael y Bryn? Robert Smith and Arwel Hughes have thought of absolutely everything in terms of guest comfort and facilities, from providing toothbrushes to bathrobes and maps. It’s part of the fastidious attention to detail – and uncompromisingly high standards – you’ll find in this spacious, immaculate house. Guests can relax in the large music room (complete with grand piano) or sunny conservatory (complete with stargazing telescope, though local views of the Preseli Hills take some beating). There’s also a lovely inner courtyard and library. Breakfast – one of the best we’ve tasted – is served in the baronial dining room. Dinner, by prior arrangement, is another extra-special treat. The dishes, combining tradition with imagination, are tailored to your tastes, with desserts to die for. Now comes the amazing revelation. Unbelievably, this faultless house was built as an Italian prisoner of war camp.