Introduction

Sitting pretty in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and overlooking the River Wye, Apifera was built way back in 1600 by lime workers quarrying nearby. Restored to its former glory with the helping hand of traditional building methods and a whole load of love, this comeliest of self-catering homes, raised from the ground it sits on, has an air of whimsy in every nook and cranny. Each item of furniture and every detail has been carefully curated from auctions and antique stores, rescued from flea markets and resurrected from Grandma’s long lost cupboards. Outside, an orchestra of flowers and foliage welcome the day with a crescendo of colour and smell, following the sun as it journeys across the sky.

Bedrooms and Bathrooms

On the ground floor and with a door made from reclaimed wood leading out into the gorgeous English garden, is Apifera’s master bedroom with a queen-size, wooden ornate bed and wild countryside views. A dusty pink double bedroom, boasting a four-poster double bed, resides up the wooden stairs on the first floor along with the small but sweet single bedroom, available only for a cot or toddler. Beside the kitchen on the ground floor is the bright cottage family bathroom with original bathtub, cradle shower and WC.

Outside

Beautiful outside space is in nothing but abundance at Apifera. Lay back and cloud watch among the wild orchids in the cider orchard, bask in sunbeams on the south-facing terrace or wander the vineyard, dreaming of a sommelier’s life at sunset. Surrounding the cottage are six acres of dreamy SSSI designated woodland overflowing with vibrant butterflies, perfect for sneaking off for a romantic picnic in dappled sunlight. When the day draws to a close and an empyreal night covers the land, turn eyes to the ground as well as the sky; glow worms are well known in these parts as well as especially twinkly skies.

For Relaxation

With simple, calming interiors and a garden to die for, nothing else in the world seems to exist when at Apifera. Stock up on goodies from the village shop and fruit from the garden and settle down under the trees, glass of cider made from the orchard in hand, to watch the world lazily drift by in the valleys below. Spend afternoons with hiking boots, wandering the woodlands of the Wye and Forest of Dean, ambling with wildlife and snacking on homemade cake. With little ones tucked up in bed and only a small television to steal attention, cosy nights spent next to the enormous open fire getting to know one another again over a bottle of wine are of the highest importance.

Practicalities

There is ample parking for two cars. Please be aware of the drop from the terrace to the garden. The country cottage style kitchen features a larder fridge, dishwasher, washing machine, wood stove, oven and underfloor heating. To keep muddy paws at bay, a warm dog shower is located by the kitchen door.