A Victorian lodge is transformed into a modern light-filled boutique property with lush spa details.
A former Victorian lodge in Barmouth, where Snowdonia National Park meets Cardigan Bay, has been re-imagined into a charming yet sophisticated bespoke property that falls into a category of its own. For years, former engineer and car designer Richard Parry-Jones and his wife, former news editor Sara, worked to construct a place for guests across the street from their clock tower residence.
Opened in 2016, the property cleverly fulfills all of its self-described adjectives as a luxury B&B-spa-lodge. As a B&B, Coes Faen excels with details like 600-thread count Egyptian cotton sheets, indulgent TempleSpa products in bathrooms, heated floors and computer controlled lighting systems making the room experience truly luxurious.
In common areas, like the cozy bar with a small fireplace illuminated by candlelight, guests gather to relax and chat before dining. Head chef Wayne Scarlet’s menu is centered on Tuscan fare, with Welsh produce. A concise à la carte menu impresses with scallops sweet against the luscious tang of lemon butter, organic Welsh lamb and generous chocolate tart.
The merging of modern B&B with lodge is epitomized by the statement lobby — an all-glass atrium complete with floating staircase envelops a natural rock outcrop where water flows into a pool.
This transitional space leads to raw beauty in every direction: upstairs several rooms overlook the Mawddach Estuary, whose rippled sand and ever changing tides are purely mesmerizing; outside, there are 30 acres of woodland garden to explore.
Distinctive spa elements are spread throughout Coes Faen’s six rooms, so that each is a spa unto itself: Borth features a lush, ink-coloured, Hammam-like cedar and Welsh-slate steam room, while Mor boasts a walk-in Grohe curved rain shower featuring natural sea shells and Italian marble.
Natural and modern elements come together to create a truly rejuvenating experience. It’s the sort of synergy Sara describes this way: “You do it differently when it’s your home.”
BEST FOR Those looking for a spectacular location, great restaurant, welcoming hosts and spa details all in one property.
This original article first appeared in the Winter 2018/19 issue of City Style and Living Magazine.
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