Clearwater Cottage & Barn, Wales

05/06/2025

🌿 Paddock Prep at Clearwater 🐾🐝
Out on the quad yesterday giving the enclosed paddock a tidy-up with the flail mower — keeping it guest-ready for dog walks, games, and a good runaround!

We always leave a few areas untouched for the bees, butterflies, and wildlife that make Clearwater so special. It’s all about balance — space for fun and freedom, with room for nature too.

Here’s a quick clip of the paddock in action 👇

18/05/2025

Another great place in Llandovery to relax with a beverage of your choice.

16/05/2025

The real boss at Clearwater Barn? This bee.
Caught in the act — face deep in pollen and not a care in the world.

Meanwhile, the flowers are showing off, and the barn’s just sitting there looking all photogenic in the background.

We do the hard work… they get the glamour shots.

19/04/2025

A superb shot of the full moon behind Paxton's Tower 🌕

📍Darganfod Sir Gâr - Discover Carmarthenshire

📸 Mathew Brown
https://www.instagram.com/mathewbrowne/

12/02/2025

One of the great Castles to visit when you say with us at Clearwater Cottage & Barn, Wales 🏰🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿❤️

Perched on a great limestone crag nearly 300ft/90m above the River Cennen, the dramatic silhouette of Carreg Cennen dominates the skyline for miles around and commands stunning views over the Carmarthenshire countryside.

built by Edward I’s loyal baron John Giffard at the end of the 13th century, you feel an incredible sense of drama and remoteness.

Castell Carreg Cennen, Llandeilo in Carmarthenshire, Wales

11/02/2025

DUBBED the Garden of Wales, Carmarthenshire is hoping to earn another moniker as the ‘capital of cosy’ with its new ‘cwtch’ guide. Fans of the TV show Gavin & Stacey wil…

23/01/2025

One of our recent feedbacks from our lovely guests!

22/01/2025

One of the many great walks you can enjoy when you stay at Clearwater Cottage & Barn, Wales

‼️Closed due to fallen trees 🌿 The RSPB Rhandirmwyn Walk 🌿

Located in a peaceful corner of Carmarthenshire, the RSPB Gwenffrwd/Dinas Nature Reserve is a hidden gem, perfect for nature lovers and bird watchers alike. The entire walk is 3.2km (2 miles). The approach from Llandovery along the River Tywi is a delight offering stunning views and a real sense of escape.

As you walk along the beautiful River Tywi, you’ll be surrounded by the sounds of nature. Red Kites, Peregrine Falcons, and Buzzards are also regular sights overhead. 🦅

The route also leads to the legendary hideout of Twm Sion Cati, the Welsh Robin Hood, who used these remote hills to evade the authorities. Legend has it, he even hid in a cave along the hillside!

After your walk, head to the nearby village of Rhandirmwyn or the town of Llandovery for a refreshing stop at a local pub or café. 🍻🍰

https://orlo.uk/vg9AE

18/01/2025

Perched dramatically on a limestone cliff in Carmarthenshire is Carreg Cennen Castle - only a short ten minute drive from town.

It’s definitely worth a trip! Climb up the sleep cliff, take in the stunning views of Bannau Brycheiniog; and absorb the atmosphere, legend and mystery.

🏛️ Ancient Origins: While the castle we see today was built in the 13th century, archaeological evidence suggests the site was occupied much earlier, possibly during the Iron Age or Roman period, making it a place of strategic importance for millennia. Legendary references place the original fortress in the Dark Ages, held by Urien Rheged, Lord of Iskennen, and his son Owain, knights during the reign of King Arthur. Stories claim that there is a warrior asleep beneath the castle, awaiting a call from the Welsh.

🛡️Natural Defences: The castle’s position on a towering 300ft limestone cliff isn’t just dramatic—it’s practical. The steep drop on one side made it almost impossible for enemies to attack from that direction, giving its defenders a significant advantage.

🕵️‍♀️The Mysterious Cave: Beneath the castle lies a natural cave accessible via a dark underground passage. The cave’s purpose is still debated, but it may have been used as a water source, a storage area, or even a hiding place during sieges.

👑A Symbol of Power: The castle was a political statement by the Welsh princes of Deheubarth, showcasing their dominance over the landscape. Its dramatic visibility from miles around was a constant reminder of their power. Rhys Fychan held the castle during the Norman Conquest in 1066. In July 1403, Owain Glyndŵr and 800 men attacked and besieged the castle.

⚔️Destruction by Design: During the Wars of the Roses in 1462, Yorkist forces intentionally dismantled Carreg Cennen to prevent it being used by their enemies. The castle has remained a ruin ever since, adding to its romantic allure.

🎨Most romantic castle in Wales: In the 18th and 19th centuries, the castle became a popular subject for Romantic artists and poets, drawn by its dramatic setting and melancholic beauty. These artworks helped establish it as a must-visit destination in Wales.

I can't recommend a visit highly enough. The location is utterly amazing…. But aim for a clear day to get the most from the views. You can only reach the castle by way of a stiff uphill climb, but the reward for your climb is wonderful views across the surrounding countryside. There is a lovely cafe and small shop for refreshments afterwards.
Carreg Cennen Castle, Official Sitee
http://www.carregcennencastle.com

13/01/2025