The Hide Retreat, St Donats

Vale of Glamorgan. Sleeps up to 4

St Donats Village, Castle and BaySt Donats is a tiny village in the Vale of Glamorgan, just 25 minutes from the Welsh Capital. This is an area steeped in history, castles, churches and myths. The pretty village itself is nice to wander around (there are many walks on the surrounding footpaths too). St Donats 12th century castle nearby, restored in the 1920's with an eclectic mix of medieval features salvaged from England and France is currently home to the internationally renowned Atlantic College, part of the United World Colleges. The school houses 350 pupils from all over the world and has its own active RNLI Station, crewed by school staff and pupils. Eating outFor a special holiday treat, you can purchase breakfast each morning at The Hide Pavillion. Enjoy a wonderful platter of fresh croissants, granola and yogurt with locally sourced bread, milk, welsh butter and free range eggs along with tea or coffee, all for £10 per person (breakfast must be ordered 24 hours in advance). Hare and Hounds is a gastro pub just over 7 miles away and is featured in the Good Food Guide and Michelin Eating out Guide. Serving good quality food and drinks in a relaxed, informal setting - it’s a great spot for lunch after a Coastal Walk or an evening out. The menu changes daily and reflects local foods that are in season. Bar 44 in Cowbridge is a lively, Tapas Bar, featuring drink and hospitality from modern Spain to the heart of South Wales. It is a firm fixture on the local seen for those seeking superb tapas and a great selection of drinks. Arboreal (also in Cowbridge) is an all-day bar and café, where the chef uses local produce in dishes with a Mediterranean, Asian and North African edge. Bespoke, wood-fired pizzas feature highly and folk music accompanies. Heritage Coast and Coast Path WalksThere are many beautiful beaches nearby - Llantwit Major, Ogmore by Sea and the Fabulous Dunraven Bay (Blue Flag) on the Glamorgan Heritage Coast - a fabulous jewel. Glorious beaches, backed by limestone cliffs, great for fossil hunting, surfing, canoeing, rock pooling, horse riding and huge sand dunes (including The Big Dipper, one of the largest single dunes in Europe) make this area a must see. There are plenty of lovely walks along the Wales Coastal Path, close by Hide. On offer are wonderful natural views such as the Merthyr Mawr sand dunes, the sedimentary formations of Dunraven Bay, and man-made contributions at Ogmore Castle and St. Bridget’s Church as well as the walled gardens and ruins of Dunraven Castle. CowbridgeThe historic and beautiful market town of Cowbridge is 7 miles away. Discover the many boutique shops or take enjoy a lunch in one of the many restaurants - a foodie heaven. The High Street is lined with boutiques, gift shops, wine bars , restaurants and pubs. Dyffryn GardensVisit the National Trust’s botanical gardens at The Grade I listed Dyffryn Gardens are nearby. They are an exceptional example of Edwardian garden design and cover more than 55 acres. Within the gardens is Dyffryn House, a grand Victorian mansion overlooking key aspects of the gardens. Stop for refreshments at the tea room and take home a plant available to purchase from the shop. CardiffThe vibrant capital city of Wales is only a 25 minute drive from The Hide and offers a fantastic day out. Unique attractions, top class entertainment and quality shopping with a difference - all within walking distance. Innovative architecture sits alongside historic buildings and Cardiff Bay offers entertainment for everyone. St Fagans National History Museum (Free)The nearby museum at St Fagans gathers together a fascinating range and variety of historic buildings from throughout Wales. Free, entertaining and educational. PenarthA beautiful seaside spot, full of charm and character, with a restored pier and a fantastic reputation for good food. Brecon BeaconsThe awe-inspiring mountains and waterfalls of the Brecon Beacons are within easy reach. A fantastic spot for an active day out with superb walking and mountain biking. There are plenty of characterful towns, pubs and farmers markets to choose from as well as Michelen-starred restaurants if you’ve worked up an appetite exploring this stunning area. Charming retreat in a peaceful location on the Glamorgan Heritage Coast for year round holidays

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