The Falcondale

A Grade-II-listed country house hotel that perches statesman-like atop the Teifi valley, surrounded by glorious walking country. Your body can’t help but start to unwind as soon as you set eyes on The Falcondale, which hoves into view a mile or so outside the pretty university town of Lampeter. This enviable setting lies in the heart of green, rolling Ceredigion, but also not far from the towns and beaches of Cardigan Bay – perfectly placed to explore the wonders of West Wales.

With 17 comfortable, beautifully decorated bedrooms, furnished with luxurious beds, great showers and deep baths, plus Freeview TVs, tea- and coffee-making facilities and homemade shortbread, The Falcondale is a comfortable place to stay, with attentive and relaxed service throughout. Downstairs, the lounge, bar and conservatory appear to flow into one another making an airy open space, yet with each area distinctly separate. Relax in the lounge next to the roaring fire, or in the bar where subtly worked out seating areas allow for both convivial groups and a quiet nook to read your paper. The conservatory makes a perfect lunch spot, running right along the front of the house with spectacular views across the valley, while the hotel's two-AA-rosette restaurant serves a moderately priced menu of dishes made using locally-sourced cheeses, meat, and fish caught in Cardigan Bay. Their popular afternoon tea isn’t so shabby either.

The Falcondale is not only handy for the prime walking country of Ceredigion, it's also about as dog friendly as it gets. Hounds get a welcome pack that includes food, a towel, blanket, bowls and a stash of poo bags, and a dinner of chicken, rice and vegetables, with a chewy ear for dessert, can be added for a fiver. Dogs are allowed everywhere but the restaurant, but you can eat the same menu in the conservatory, and guests have their own, dog-friendly lounge on the first floor. You’ll find ample circular walks from the hotel, through acres of woodland, and plenty of good beaches nearby too – Cei Bach, Cwmtydu, Aberaeron, Llanina and Poppit Sands are all dog friendly year-round. Not only that, dogs stay free during National Pet Month – usually every April!