Guests say
Ivy Bush Cottage is a charming, cosy retreat in a peaceful village setting, ideal for relaxing breaks and exploring the beautiful Welsh countryside. Guests praise its characterful décor, comfortable beds, and dog-friendly features, with many highlighting the enclosed garden and log burner. The cottage is well-equipped and offers a homely atmosphere, though some mention minor maintenance issues and the closure of the local shop. While most found the property clean and welcoming, a few experienced lapses in cleanliness and communication. Overall, it is a delightful base for a tranquil getaway, with thoughtful touches appreciated by many guests.
Most guests found the cottage clean, tidy, and well-presented, with several specifically praising its cleanliness. However, a minority reported issues such as greasy pans, unclean kitchen items, and, in one case, a significant lack of cleaning prior to arrival. These mixed experiences bring the score down slightly from excellent.
The location is widely appreciated for its tranquillity, scenic surroundings, and suitability as a base for exploring the Cambrian Mountains and West Wales. The peaceful village setting is a highlight, though the closure of the local shop and the need for a car are noted. Overall, the rural charm and access to walks are strong positives.
Guests frequently mention the cottage's cosy atmosphere, comfortable beds, and relaxing sitting room with a log burner. The property is described as warm and homely, though a few guests noted issues such as limited banister support on stairs and lumpy quilts. Overall, comfort is a strong point.
The cottage is generally well-equipped, with cleaning supplies, kitchen essentials, and dog-friendly amenities. Some guests appreciated the smart TV and enclosed garden. However, there were occasional issues with TV setup, missing oven gloves, and minor maintenance needs (e.g., bathroom tap, freezer). Facilities are good but could benefit from minor updates.
Several guests appreciated thoughtful touches such as cakes on arrival and dog treats, but it is important to note that these are not guaranteed for every stay. Some guests were disappointed by the absence of a welcome pack or dog treats, indicating inconsistency. The owner's responsiveness was generally positive, though not universal.
About this property
Close to the Cors Caron Nature Reserve, this beamed cottage displays a wealth of stonework and has plentiful walks from the door.. 1 step to entrance.
Ground Floor:
Open plan living space.
Living area: 32" Freeview TV, DVD Player, Multi-Fuel Burner, French Doors To Garden
Dining area.
Kitchen area: Electric Cooker, Microwave, Fridge, Freezer, Dishwasher, Washer Dryer
First Floor:
Bedroom 1: Kingsize (5ft) Bed
Bedroom 2: 2 x Single (3ft) Beds
Bathroom: Bath With Shower Over, Toilet.
Electric central heating, electricity, bed linen, towels and Wi-Fi included. Initial fuel for wood burner included. Travel cot and highchair available on request. Enclosed lawned garden with patio, garden furniture and BBQ. Carport parking for 1 car. No smoking. Please note: There is a step in the garden.. Escape to the wonderful comfort of Ivy Bush Cottage nestled within the ancient, charming, and tranquil village of Llandewi Brefi, at the foothills of the Cambrian Mountains. Situated in a row of four stone cottages originally all owned by the owner’s great-great grandfather 150 years ago, Ivy Bush (Bwthyn Iorwg in Welsh) is now one of three cottages still owned by the family today. It has been lovingly restored and has high quality and comfort in abundance. Exposed stone work, beams and a multi-fuel burner all go towards making it a characterful and cosy holiday retreat for guests.
The village lies on the banks of the Afon Brefi and dates back to the 1st century when Romans set up camp in a settlement known as Bremia (bubbling stream). There is an interesting local legend to discover whilst here as to how the village later came to be known as Llandewi Brefi! In centuries gone by it was a thriving and bustling place on the drover’s route taking livestock to London and beyond. Today the village is rather more peaceful but still has a village shop for your essential supplies and two warm and welcoming inns.
Surrounded by beautiful countryside, Ivy Bush is perfectly placed for exploring the very best of Mid Wales. The area is criss-crossed with scenic walking and cycling routes, many beginning right from the cottage doorstep, while mountain biking enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities nearby.
Walkers are particularly well catered for. Enjoy peaceful strolls along quiet country lanes and public footpaths directly from the cottage, taking in rolling farmland, woodland, and panoramic views of the Cambrian Mountains. The nearby Cors Caron Nature Reserve offers miles of accessible trails and boardwalks through one of Britain’s finest raised bog landscapes, where you can spot a wide variety of birds and wildlife. For those looking for a more challenging hike, the Cambrian Mountains provide endless walking opportunities, from gentle valley routes to rewarding hilltop trails with spectacular views across Mid Wales. Guided walks are also available locally, offering the chance to discover the area’s rich history, wildlife, and landscapes.
Just 3 miles away lies the charming market town of Tregaron, home to independent shops, the Rhiannon Welsh Gold Centre, and an award-winning pub and restaurant. A mile further on, discover the breathtaking Cors Caron Nature Reserve, with over 2,000 acres to explore and an accessible boardwalk winding through this unique landscape.
History lovers can visit the evocative ruins of the 12th-century Cistercian Abbey at Strata Florida, while the dramatic Cambrian Mountains offer endless opportunities for exploration by car, bike, or on foot. A scenic 35-minute drive brings you to the stunning Ceredigion coastline, where you’ll find beautiful beaches, many welcoming dogs all year round, exciting dolphin-watching trips, and the vibrant seaside town of Aberystwyth with its cliff railway, pier, and sweeping promenade. The picturesque Georgian harbour town of Aberaeron is also well worth a visit and is famous for its delicious honey ice cream.
Back at Ivy Bush, relax with an al fresco meal in the enclosed garden while enjoying views across the Welsh slate rooftops towards the village church. Keep an eye on the skies, as red kites are a frequent sight, often soaring overhead accompanied by their distinctive call.
After a day spent discovering the area’s spectacular scenery, wildlife, and heritage, return to the comfort of a luxury mattresses and drift off dreaming of your next visit to this remarkable corner of Wales. Beach 20 miles. Pub/restaurant 200 yards.
Free WiFi
Please note the organic mattresses are hand made in Wales and contain natural materials such as wool, horsehair and cotton.
Only dogs allowed at the property.
Suitable for up to 1 pet
Reviews (29)
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Confirmed Guest
Very sad to have to give a 1 star review but given the cleanliness of the cottage and the interaction with both the owner and the booking company I couldn't give any higher. On arrival it was clear the cottage had not been cleaned properly at all. I took lots of photos of the dirt, grease, dog hair, other people's hair, stains, dirty oven, dirty fire, grease dripping from the extractor fans, unusable freezer and much more. Had we not driven 3 1/2 hours to get there we would have left immediately. Instead I spent the 1st 24 hours cleaning. The owner did not respond to my messages until we had left. There was not acknowledgement of the dirty photos, but a very patronising response as to how sad it was I spent my holiday cleaning. The booking company were also very unhelpful. This holiday was a 40th birthday celebration. Such a shame that the current photos are not up to date, the cottage itself is cute and quaint but not being maintained to the standard it should be. Given that the owner chose to ignore all my correspondence with the issues I raised I wouldn't recommend booking as of you face any issues it will no doubt go unresolved. Very disappointing experience. If there was an option to add the photos I would do.
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Confirmed Guest
A comfortable, spacious and well equipped cottage.
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Michael Beauchamp
What a lovely cottage.Love the stone walls,so nice and clean,sorry we could not hoover around as could not find the charger.