I just came back from a wonderful trip to Wales and would like to recommend HF Holidays. They offer walking holidays throughout the UK. We stayed in a beautiful country inn, had three great meals a day and walked in pretty countryside. HF encourages socializing so we had some great conversation at meals[we were the only Americans].I thought the price was pretty reasonable too. Consider HF if you enjoy hiking[or walking as they call it]. And prepare to walk pretty long distances!!

So, which one are you talking about -- Bryn Corach at Conwy or Nythfa House at Brecon? I much preferred the latter, for the walking and for the friendliness of the management and staff at the house.

We stayed at Bryn Corach. I have never used the other in mid Wales. Have you stayed at any of the houses in England?

Kalmia, yes, I have. Monk Coniston in the Lake District (excellent), Newton House in the Peaks District (good) and Freshwater Bay on the Isle of Wight (excellent). Also Altachorvie on Isle of Arran in Scotland (very good). And two houses that have subsequently been closed, Coram House at Lyme Regis (no great loss except for the marvellous coastal walks) and Thurlestone Sands in south Devon (a great loss).

If you want walks with real vertical ascents and views to go with it, similar to Conwy, then Coniston would be your choice. If you want easier coastal walks, Isle of Wight is a good choice.

Thanks Ron. I have only stayed at the one place so I had no basis for comparison. I did think the people could have been a little friendlier at the house but I still enjoyed it.