Celestia
Talybont-on-usk, Brecon Beacons, Wales, UK
A place where mountains climb to brush the stars, the solitude of the Brecon Beacons only adds to its allure. Wend through waterfall-splashed valleys and tangled woodland to find this old stone dwelling resting on an open clearing beneath the flat-topped peaks of Pen-y-fan – the highest summit in the national park. Romantic, remote and awash with eclecticism, this luxury self-catering farmhouse is an ode to mountain living.
Introduction
When the previous owners came across a three-line newspaper advert for this forgotten 17th Century longhouse and cottage, the site had no electricity or running water. With the help of craftsmen from over the hill in Hay-on-Wye, a sensitive 10-year renovation saw the neglected homestead reconfigured to create a luxury self-catering farmhouse fit for gathering, including secret bedrooms, suspended staircases and floating mezzanine floors. Among the list of imaginatively repurposed objects, vintage grape baskets hang above a long wooden dining table, inviting family chatter and slow suppers by a roaring log burner.
Inside
The main farmhouse has all the warmth of a sumptuous mountain hideaway: the kind of place you'd dream of being snowed in without a shovel. Patinaed plaster and brickwork have been left exposed, underfloor heating hides clandestinely beneath the old flagstones, and century-old fireplaces summon dogs, bookworms and red wine drinkers to bask in the glow of open flames. Walls are washed in Earthborn clay paint, while poured concrete and sisal flooring continues the organic theme. In the cottage across the garden, a social living space temps chinking cocktails and games of pool - Team Longhouse Vs Team Cottage.
Outside
Celestia sits in four and a half acres over a mile from the nearest neighbour, but with ancient sheep tracks inviting the occasional inquisitive visitor. A flower-strewn paddock overlooks the Black Mountains, leading to an orchard that groans under the weight of plump apples come autumn. Follow the garden path past the stream and into the woods to discover one of Britain’s few ‘Lost Rainforests’. A wild plunge under the waterfall promises an invigorating start to the day, while evenings are for throwing down a blanket beneath the stargazing bowl (designed by Chelsea Gold Medallists The Rich Brothers), watching constellations dance across the Dark Sky Reserve.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 14 guests (10 adults and 4 children)
From £3,295 per week, £2,595 per short break - Alternative group optionsUp to 6 or up to 8 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsCelestia accommodates 14 guests across two separate buildings; eight in the main farmhouse and six in the cottage. The farmhouse includes three double bedrooms (one with en suite, two with king-size beds plus one standard double) and one bunk bedroom. Note that the master, double and bunk bedrooms sit along a corridor with steps and an angled ceiling. The family bathroom includes a WC, walk-in shower and rolltop bath. There is also a ground floor WC. Across the garden, the cottage has three bedrooms: one with king-size bed and en suite bathroom, one with double bed, and one with bunk beds. The cottage´s family bathroom features a bath with central overhead shower.
View bedrooms - FeaturesPool table, Steinway piano, fire pit with grill, and stargazing bowl
- PetsTwo well-behaved dogs are welcome
Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Day: Friday or MondayArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyChildren and babies are very welcome, two cots and highchairs are available
- PracticalitiesThe property is accessed via a winding tarmac track (passing through two farm gates) which is less suited to low slung cars in winter months. Four small CCTV cameras cover the courtyard and exterior entrances for added security. There is private, gated parking for four cars. The farmhouse kitchen has a large Aga, dishwasher and fridge, plus an additional fridge, wine fridge, freezer and microwave in the adjoining pantry. The cottage includes a Neff fan oven with induction hob and grill, a dishwasher, fridge-freezer and microwave, plus a laundry area with Miele washer-dryer. The garden is enclosed and streams are gated, however guests travelling with dogs and children may want to exercise caution within the wider grounds. There are two smaller group options. If booking the option for six people, guests will have access to the cottage only. If booking the option for eight people (6 adults and 2 children), guests will have access to the farmhouse only (pool table unavailable). With both smaller group options, the other property will be unoccupied, granting you exclusive access to the grounds.
- Homestay includesA luxury welcome hamper of fresh local produce including Clams of Crickhowell Welsh cakes, luxury bed linen and towels, eco-friendly toiletries, a picnic hamper, fondue kits, dog treats and toiletries, fresh coffee and hot chocolate, Wifi internet, a fire pit, logs and kindling to get you started.House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more little luxuries
- Private cateringSeeking a celebratory dinner or fully catered escape? Our recommended caterers will work with you to create personalised menus for your stay. Details are shared through our house book on confirming your booking.
- RetreatsFrom foraging weekenders to crash courses in cold-water therapy, our bespoke retreats bridge the gap between luxury and back-to-nature philosophies. Create a hand-crafted stay that puts connectivity at the fore.
- Eco-friendlyGround source heat pump for heating and hot water, eco-friendly toiletries
- RestrictionsParties considered on prior permission from the owner
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questionsEV charger locationsCheck mobile signalRecommend to a friend
Prices & Availability
The Brecon Beacons
From crumbling castles to heather-cloaked mountain ranges calling out to be explored, the Brecon Beacons is a diverse landscape and stunning base for walking holidays in south Wales.
Getting there
- On the Map The property enjoys a secluded mountainous spot near Talybont-on-Usk in the Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales
- By Car London is around a three and a half hour drive away from Celestia
- By Train Abergavenny train station is around half an hour's drive away, with regular routes to London via Cardiff
- By Air Cardiff airport is an 80-minute drive, while Bristol is an hour and 45 minutes away by car
From the owner
“The magical feeling that we get as we drive up to Celestia never fades. As the Beacons open out in front of us we can´t wait to get our boots on and head up into the hills. The thrill of knowing that there is nothing between us and the top of Pen-y-fan is quite something.”
Keeping us going up the steep climb of Cribyn is the thought of the stew we put in the Aga that morning, before heading out and curling up in front of the huge open fire in the cosy living room - possibly a Penderyn whiskey in hand. Children will love discovering all the nooks and crannies of the house, pottering in the stream on a warm summer's day and breathing in the clean air of the rare pocket of temperate rainforest that sits within the grounds. The evening light on The Black Mountains is beautiful and makes the terraces a perfect spot for an evening drink.
When night falls, we are always amazed by the night sky, all becoming amateur astronomers. This really is a place to feel at peace. We often try to imagine living there in the olden days without electricity and mod-cons. While it sounds romantic, we are happy to have all our creature comforts and be able to enjoy the incredibly sympathetic renovation and perfectly designed interiors that exist today.
Ceri
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in The Brecon Beacons with an insider’s perspective.
To Eat
The Felin Fach Griffin
You´re ensured a warm feeling after leaving this fine dining pub. The owners describe the food as ´refined Welsh cuisine´, a favourite for Sunday roasts and especially good after a hike on a blustery day.
To See
The Black Mountains
This collection of old red sandstone hills dominates Wales´ famous Brecon Beacons, both in size and beauty. Walk through the folklore and fiction of Wales as you experience why so many adore this scenic and secluded landscape.
To Do
Hay-on-Wye
The neighbouring market town of Hay-on-Wye boasts smart cafes and over twenty bookshops, giving it the informal title of "the town of books". Watch out for the annual Hay Festival which brings visitors from far and wide.
To Eat
The Walnut Tree, Abergavenny
Attracting foodies from all over the world, this Michelin-starred restaurant is a must-visit. Offering a superb dining experience, booking in advance at the Walnut Tree is definitely recommended to avoid disappointment.
Guest Testimonials
Many thanks to the owners of Celestia for providing such a fabulous place to stay. We were so lucky to be there for the meteor shower, in a place with such great visibility thanks to the Dark Sky Reserve, also with the full star gazing kit waiting for us! Everyone absolutely loved it and the kids all have totally unbelievable stories of how many shooting stars they saw. The owners have really thought of everything inside and out including the welcome hamper. We will definitely be back!
Our stay was simply magical! Words fail to describe our stay, but if I had to put it into words, I would say "a beautiful house with all you need. Amazing setting in the middle of nowhere, mountains and a stream to bathe in for the brave." If you want to celebrate and enjoy nature, Celestia ticks every box. The hosts went above and beyond what we would have expected and will certainly come again.
This place is a glimpse of Heaven, with the space to explore, breathe and spend magical time with friends and family. It´s somewhere you feel very lucky to have found, sad to leave but excited about coming back to.
Three families living the dream, miles away from everything in our own hilltop hideaway. Morning started with big breakfasts from the AGA, before kids´ (and adults) run wild through the garden, in and out of streams and up into the mountains on our doorstep. Evenings disappeared around the fire pit and pool table as the sun slowly set behind the Black Mountains. A magical time that we´ll never forget
We stayed at Celestia in early June with a party of friends with mixed-age kids. The location is breathtaking with far-reaching mountains and a little stream in the back garden. Our kids played outside all day only coming back to the house for food. The house is as beautiful on the inside as the out; great social spaces, a well-equipped kitchen and gorgeous décor. Can´t wait to go back again and unplug in this truly special place.
Unique extras
From private chefs to luxury at-home spa therapists and adrenalin-fuelled retreats, once you’ve booked your stay we’ll introduce you to our owner-recommended suppliers to create a truly bespoke, memorable escape.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Celestia and Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
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A cosy cottage tucked under the peaks of the Brecon Beacons
House & Garden
June 2023Brilliant Christmas escapes
The Times
November 2023The UK´s best holiday homes
Condé Nast Traveller
November 2023Natural world
25 Beautiful Homes
November 2023The world´s best stays for art-lovers
The Times
November 2023Sense of purpose
Country Homes & Interiors
October 2023Glastonbury is extortionate - here´s what else you can get for your money
The Telegraph
October 2023The best woodland stays in the UK
The Times
October 2023
Luxury Self-Catering Cottages > UK > Wales > Brecon Beacons > Celestia
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Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.
