Capel Dewi Uchaf Country House Diary
WINTER SEASON 2009/10
Well, the winter is truly here now, settling into a pattern of winter days and dramatic scenes, some of which are quite wonderful. Living rurally gives one the opportunity to see the true seasons changing in front of your eyes with all the drama that can go with a vivid imagination. We have a view from our garden which stretches north across the valley, we can see the weather coming in from the West enclosing us and making us retreat into our cosy farmhouse and light the fires. Other days we can get up and see a mystical mist across the fields and river, as we look down into this magical scene one can imagine Kings and their Warriors coming through this thick blanket of mist, walking up the land for sustenance. Hopefully they will not be hostile! We love this time of the year, the leaves have given us the most wonderful fall and they have been carpeting the ground in many colours. OK so it is hard work to clear it all up but what a picture! The heavy rains we are having now are quite spectacular washing the land of all its debris as the Towy River flows past and to the sea. There are so many wonderful wet weather clothes that keep you so warm and cosy. It is almost a luxury to go out and see the winter in all its glory. Take a lone walk on a wind swept beach and then retreating to a cosy pub for a warm up. I like a warm Ginger Wine to bring me round! Our dog takes no notice of the weather, especially now she has a waxed jacket to wear too.
The garden has had the last of my full attention for a while. I can just sit back and wait for the daffodils to come through the earth and give us such joy again. Funnily enough they seem to come earlier each year these days, following the snow drops which I have to say are quite wonderful, we have many natural varieties carpeting the ground beneath the trees along the drive. They always hold their own for a good long time. I love the winter to rest the earth and clear the spirits ready for another year.
We have had a fairly busy summer season again this year seeing many guests again which is the best part of this business for me, it is great to catch up and chat about what has been happening to us all. Capel Dewi Uchaf Farmhouse has a wonderful feel about it. The house wraps itself around you and brings you in from the cold giving you the security you need after a long journey. I truly believe there is great value in a winter holiday or a short break or visiting relatives and friends this time of the year. You know there is always a Welcome in the Valleys when you come to Wales, they even made a song of the notion. Taking time over breakfast, tasting the delights of this county’s farye is such pleasure, the fire is hard to leave behind with the aroma of coffee still in the air, just stay another day, and enjoy what a Welsh Country break can bring to the senses.
I have lived here in Wales for twenty two years now, welcoming my family and friends all times of the year, they love it whatever the weather, as my guests do too. What would Britain be without the seasons? Come prepared to enjoy; it is only a state of mind.
Prince Charles, the Heir to the British Throne has a country residence just down the valley in beautiful Carmarthenshire, not dissimilar to Capel Dewi Uchaf, it is such a sanctuary to him by all accounts. This county has some spectacular views ranging from mountains, hills, coast and countryside all to be enjoyed every day, taking a journey is like exploring a landscape second to none, you become part of the landscape as it wraps it’s self around you.
New for this year we have a self-catering facility, which is very smart and has a high specification. It has been interior designed and co-ordinated to reflect modern tastes. This beautiful barn conversion can accommodate five people, we have designed it for adults to enjoy, there are gardens over looking a paddock and the front lawns, a dining terrace with a built in Bar-B-Q. It has under floor heating and a log fire too. Should you wish to be really spoilt we can arrange for a housekeeper or a cook, housekeeper on a weekly basis or even daily, all of which you can book in advance.
For next year we are improving our fishing experience here at Capel Dewi Uchaf. Fishing is becoming more and more popular as the Towy River is one of the best in Europe for Salmon fishing. Sewin (Sea Trout) which are caught at night, a challenge that can test one’s durability while staying out all night, experiencing the silence and being submerged purely in a complete feeling of being at one with nature. We have seen an impressive increase in women fishing for pleasure too, I am sure it is the feeling of being in touch with ones inner self that holds the key to this sport for women. Our fishing page is in the making but keep an eye on our site, as it will be included soon.
We are looking forward to welcoming you to our beautiful home,
Freddie
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AA Best Breakfast Award -
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