This unique home nestled in the Swansea Valley is the ideal place to begin your adventures in south Wales. With easy access to both the Brecon Beacons National Park and the coast, you'll love spending your downtime in these wonderfully peaceful surroundings.

It was used as a cart house when first built, but has since been totally revamped by award-winning Rio Architects. The result is a splendid home that combines contemporary minimalism with some traditional touches – the hosts have even added some Welsh-themed artworks for you to admire. And, if you head outside, you'll find a patio area where you can sip drinks in the sunshine – look out for the magic stone tree built on one of the walls.

The popular Plas Farm Trail passes right by the cottage's front door, and a short road leads you down to the banks of the River Clydach then into a private bluebell wood. A twenty-minute car ride will bring you to the Brecon Beacons, where you can try your hand at a range of outdoor activities including rock climbing and kayaking. And, if you fancy a day at the seaside, you can drive to the Gower Peninsula in forty minutes to discover hidden beaches.

Home truths:
*There is private parking beside the cottage
*You can use your laptop at the dining table if you need to work remotely