A charming Victorian cottage in the heart of one of the most important 'picturesque movement' designed landscapes in the world. This delightful and historic cottage is a perfect retreat from modern life, accessible only by quiet forest tracks. Pwll Pendre occupies a sheltered, south-facing hollow beside its own pool in a completely peaceful location. Thomas Johnes made the Hafod estate famous when he remodelled it in the late eighteenth century to create what he considered paradise on earth. He didn't do a bad job and now you can explore the 'alpine' walks, rivers, waterfalls, caves, rope-bridges and estate ruins at your leisure. The cottage is well away from all roads and disturbance in the middle of this amazing country estate. Click here to see some holiday snaps taken on the estate or a video here of  the waterfall. Independent 5* review.

LIVING ROOM/ DINING: The ground floor of the main cottage is one spacious room with a cast iron wood-burning stove (first basket of fuel supplied) and pleasant views down to the pool. In summer you'll probably just leave the door open to let the landscape in.

There are two comfortable sofas and a dining table for 6. Note that there is no tv reception but there is a CD player and you can bring DVDs to watch in the studio. All rooms have electric night storage heating (price included). There is a pay-phone as mobile reception is poor, and the housekeeper also lives on the estate should you have any query.

KITCHEN: The kitchen is simple, modern and practical with electric full-size oven, fridge (ice compartment), microwave, toaster, washing machine etc. Views and door to garden.

STUDIO BEDROOM:

Studio Bedroom is on the ground floor with a door to the garden. It contains a double bed, plus a small sofa and a TV with DVD and video players. Note that there is no TV reception.

UPSTAIRS:

BEDROOM 1: Double bedroom with fine views across the landscape.

BEDROOM 2: Twin bedroom with fine views across the landscape.

BATHROOM: A simple, practical bathroom in a modern style with shower over the bath.

GARDEN: Large, enclosed garden. Parking for two cars. Some of the best country walks in mid-West Wales start at the door.

Like all Under the Thatch accommodation, this property is entirely non-smoking inside.

• Afon Ystwyth - walk along meadow, to Hafod’s famous waterfalls -10 mins
• Click here - photos of  restored 'Winter Walk'
• Miles of scenic walking in every direction.
• Observe Red Kites, regularly nesting at Hafod
• Great range of wildlife.
• nature reserves - see red kites fed every day
• mountain bike trails, best in the UK.
• Devil’s Bridge - 4 miles
• Rheidol Gorge - 4 miles - impressive steam train
• Elan Valley lakes -12 miles - Guided trails with horses
• Aberystwyth -15 miles - University Town, arts centre concert hall, castle cinemas, galleries, museum
• Aberaeron -10 miles - Great seafood restaurants
• Hafod Arms in Devil's Bridge - wi-fi broadband
• Pontrhydygroes -1.5 miles - shop/pub - home-made food
• Order publications about Hafod

'Certainly the loveliest cottage we've ever stayed in AND so much more than just a lovely cottage - with all the wonderful walks built in it's a complete holiday in itself! It’s a really special place. The lovely walks literally from the doorstep and the waterfalls were fantastic. We didn’t use our car at all after arriving! We will definitely be trying other Under the Thatch properties in the future.' ~ Judith, Justin and Innes from Surrey

'A glimpse of paradise...like stumbling into a Jane Austin novel! From waking up to the bleats of sheep outside to lying on the sofa with the crackles of the fire...timeless' ~ Ewan and Lucinda  from London

'The most perfect place for our honeymoon' ~ Emma Mather and Andrew Elliott, Bristol.

Note 125 metre walk from the parking would not be suitable for the infirm as the stone steps can be slippery.