Tucked deeply in Ceredigion’s Rheidol Valley, this cottage for four is utterly peaceful and well-located for exploring this corner of mid-Wales. A haven for wildlife lovers, rare red kites and buzzards inhabit the area (don’t forget to bring your binoculars). Footpaths lead directly from the garden into paddocks, woodland, valley and hills so you can ramble to your heart’s content. Local trails focus on nearby Devil’s Bridge – a village with an unusual three-tiered bridge that crosses a deep gorge in the vicinity of gushing waterfalls – and there are more trails at the 200-hectare Hafod Estate in neighbouring Ystwyth Valley. At home, the cottage is comfortable excellence across two floors, where wooden beams meet old-world furnishings. Discover the cottage’s hot tub, sauna and games room or warm your toes beside the flickering fireplace in the lounge. The undercover barbecue and outdoor dining area mean you can enjoy dining al fresco whatever the weather – and while that's cooking up, the kids can play freely in the fields watching the sheep pass them by.