Holiday home in St Briavels (1.5mls E), Gloucestershire

Accommodation details

Bask in the sunshine and gaze out across the Wye Valley from this gorgeous retreat near St Briavels. Sleeping just two guests, the one-bedroom, single-storey, romantic retreat is also perfect for couples wishing to explore the Forest of Dean as well as the Welsh borderlands. Situated 5.5 miles from Lydney and the banks of the River Severn, it is also 9.5 miles from historic Monmouth in Wales.

The cottage is set within the grounds of the owner’s home but enjoys its privacy. Return from your long walks to enter via the porch and shuffle off your outerwear in the hall. Head on through to the open-plan lounge/kitchen/diner, with its partly vaulted ceiling and expansive windows that bring the light flooding in.

Unwind in this airy, modern space in front of the TV or choose a book from the shelves then settle down to read for a spell. Make your way through to the kitchen when it is time to prepare the next homecooked meal. Find everything you need to assist you in your endeavours then sit down to your romantic meal together at the kitchen in the main living area.

When you are ready to retire for the night, have a long hot soak in the shower room then amble through to the super-king size bedroom. Sip your morning coffee out on the sun-soaked deck on summer days and enjoy a glass of wine or two out here under the stars on clear nights. Visit historic Tintern Abbey, 6 miles away, and Ragland Castle, 17.

5 miles away, over the border into Wales. Goodrich Castle, 12 miles away, is also worth visiting. Venture 13 miles to Symonds Yat in the magnificent Wye Valley, to climb the rock, take in the views and hire canoes to paddle out along the scenic river.