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Cardiff's Seaside Secret: The Holm House in Penarth

February 28, 2008 at 9:00 AM | 0 Comments

Here's a secret for any of you who want an exclusive olde-style 'British' boutique hotel experience - Holm House in Penarth, a short way from Wales' capital city Cardiff.

It's a classic, from its top-quality guest-only restaurant and its 12 individually designed and decorated rooms. And if you're wondering, it really is a house, a 1920s house done up in fine style with modern installations - Bang & Olufsen and WiFi and all the rest.

Go if you're over 30 (in age or attitude) and want a quiet romantic break - it's no good for clubbers and outrageous lovers.

"We use the following words to describe Holm House - cwtchy, cosy, quirky, eccentric, bohemian, opulent, decadent, indulgent, relaxing, sumptuous, luxuriant and accessible..."

Take the word 'bohemian' out of the hotel's self-description (the clientele is anything but bohemian) and it's fairly accurate.

The service is restrained and professional and the restaurant certainly looks and smells good - it's reserved for hotel guests only as we weren't staying at the hotel we couldn't join in. The bar's a cosy, elegant area where you can talk huntin', shootin' fishin' or just enjoy a quiet G&T.

'Rooms' are  typical British understatement, as most of them are like smallish suites, with four-poster beds, good views and all the little luxuries. They're all individually decorated so check out the website's pictures before booking.

Spa Overlooking the Sea
In case you don't know anything about Welsh seasides, you won't be building sandcastles or flouncing around in a bikini. There's no sand in sight, and anyone in anything less than an Antarctic explorer jacket is likely to end up with hypothermia. Holm House is the only place where you can paddle in a super-heated hydrotherapy pool overlooking the sea. So if you half-close your eyes, you can sort-of imagine....

Rates
£195 for the cheapest double room for one night, including a top-class 3-course dinner and full Welsh breakfast, up to £390 for  the loft suite (which features a TV over the bath). It's cheaper if you stay the whole weekend.

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