23-07-2025
Listed barn-turned Powys holiday cottage among Wales' best
A Grade II listed holiday cottage near Llandrindod Wells received praise from the Travel and Hospitality Awards by winning one of its top prizes.
A self-catering, eco holiday cottage, Drovers Retreat at Dolau, a 19th century Grade II listed building based in a secluded spot in the heart of Mid Wales countryside, has won the Country Holiday Cottage of the Year in Wales Award.
The cottage, near Llandrindod Wells, was once a stone barn before it was carefully converted to a cottage for up to four guests in 2017 and collected the accolade in the Travel & Hospitality Awards, which recognise organisations that have gone above and beyond in providing exceptional experiences to their customers.
A Green Tourism Silver Award winner, the cottage is situated on a local wildlife site with its own water supply and an electric vehicle charger. An adjoining games barn has a snooker table, table football and darts, while the cottage has board games and books.
Guests are able to enjoy woodland as well as self-guided walks in unspoilt countryside as well as stargaze in a dark sky at night.
Bob Kennard, Drovers Retreat co-owner with his wife, Carolyn, spoke about the unique appeal of Mid Wales for tourists and the environment in which the retreat is located.
He said: 'Rural Mid Wales has a lot to offer tourists, especially as a great place to unwind and enjoy peace and nature, as well as history, landscapes and picturesque towns and villages. Yet it is relatively undiscovered.
'Perhaps this award will help to shine a light on the beauties and treasures of this wonderful area.'
For the award itself, panel of experts evaluated submission materials, reviewed customer feedback and compared the facilities of each participant before the award winners were chosen.
A spokesperson for the awards added: 'Our esteemed winners are those who have showcased their exceptional qualities, outstanding services and facilities, and unparalleled commitment to customer satisfaction across numerous categories.
'We were astounded by the exceptional quality of entries this year and trust that this guide will serve as a valuable resource for discerning travellers as they plan their next luxurious getaway.'
