I am writing this as I sit in the drawing room of one of my favourite luxury hotels in Wales (perhaps the favourite), and I can’t believe how lucky I am to be able to share this list with you. Having stayed in all of these, some even more than once, I feel incredibly blessed. In fact, I’ve stayed in over 40 hotels across Wales – most of them luxury hotels (or boutique hotels, spa hotels, castle hotels – you name it).
The hotels (and country houses) on this list are my hand-selected favourites for a Welsh getaway for anyone craving a bit of luxury. From gorgeous gardens and in-house spas to beautifully decorated drawing rooms and libraries, if you want to feel true British splendor, one of these will be the right place for you to stay.
Table of Contents
My 10 Favourite Luxury Hotels in Wales
The list below is in no particular order, as each of these hotels have their very own charm and pull. If you are looking to escape to Wales for a bit (whether it’s for a weekend or as a part of a longer Wales road trip, for example), I recommend you read this entire guide and pick your hotel according to the vibe you’re looking for.
Or, you know, just stay at all of them. That’s what I would do.
Read later: The Best Country Hotels in Wales (if you want a countryside retreat)
Plas Dinas Country House
Location: Bontnewydd, Caernarfon | Nearest Train Station: Caernarfon (7-10 minutes away) |
Number of Rooms: 11 | Highlights: Royal Ties & Pretending You’re in Downton Abbey
Plas Dinas is a place I’ll never forget, not just for the warm welcome and kindness of the staff, but for the truly immersive feeling of being in Downton Abbey. And if you know me, you know I love to pretend I’m Lady Mary whenever I travel in the UK.
This country house hotel is the former home of Lord Snowdon and belonged to the Armstrong-Jones family (of royal and the Crown-related fame). I stayed here as part of my collaboration with the Rarebits Collection, and it truly didn’t disappoint.
In fact, I loved it so much that I ended up dedicating an entire blog post to review it, which you can read here.
Plas Dinas has 11 individually decorated rooms, each equipped with all the amenities you may need (such as a coffee machine, hair drier, robes and toiletries), but also some extra luxuries to indulge in (such as shortbread and chocolate biscuits, a little bit of sherry in a crystal carafe, and a radio playing classical music as you enter).
My favourite part of my stay was the drawing room (as mentioned in the intro to this post) and the dinner service. The Gunroom Restaurant has been included in the Michelin guide since 2022, and is a AA 2 Rosette awarded restaurant, which is impressive enough.
Dinner was not just a fantastic meal (consisting of several courses), but an experience in and of itself, that started with a drink in the drawing room before being taken into the dining room.
I could keep singing Plas Dinas’ praises here, but it would be more efficient for you to just check out my complete blog post review of the place. I can’t wait to be back someday soon!
The Falcondale
Location: Lampeter, Ceredigion | Nearest Train Station: Carmarthen (45 minutes away) |
Number of Rooms: 17 | Highlights: A Year-Round Country Retreat & A Bar That Knows What You Need
I’ve been lucky enough to stay at The Falcondale Hotel not just once, but twice – and honestly, I’d go back in a heartbeat. This Victorian country house sits in beautiful, peaceful countryside, making it feel like a retreat from the rest of the world.
Whether you visit in the height of summer, with sunshine pouring through the conservatory doors, or in the depths of winter, warming up by the fire in the Scarlet Lounge (formerly the Peterwells Lounge), this place always manages to be exactly what you need.
In fact, on my second visit, it rained so much one day that I ended up staying inside and working on this very blog post – which felt oddly fitting, given how effortlessly cozy this hotel is. There’s just something about The Falcondale that invites you to slow down, whether that’s curled up with a book, sipping a drink by the fire, or just enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Speaking of drinks, let’s talk about the bar’s brilliant little secret: a window that connects directly to the Scarlet Lounge. If you want to spend your evening tucked away in comfort, there’s no need to leave your cozy spot – you can still reach the bartender. If that’s not pure country house luxury, I don’t know what is.
Bodysgallen Hall & Spa
Location: Llandudno | Nearest Train Station: Llandudno Junction |
Number of Rooms: 31 | Highlights: Staying in a National Trust building
Bodysgallen Hall is a stunning 17th-century country house hotel set within beautiful gardens and views of the surrounding countryside. Managed by The National Trust, the hotel offers a unique blend of history, comfort, and exceptional service, making it a perfect choice for history lovers, couples seeking a romantic retreat, or solo travelers wanting a peaceful escape.
During my two-night stay in one of the Hall Cottages, I was impressed not only by the grandeur of the main house but also by the warmth and attentiveness of the staff, who made me feel truly cared for throughout my visit. And, Llandudno and Conwy are on my list of the best places to base yourself in North Wales!
I spent my days reading by the fire in the cozy library, enjoying afternoon tea in the house’s charming alcoves, and exploring the immaculate gardens, even in the crisp winter air. The on-site spa was a welcome bonus, offering a relaxing space to unwind after exploring nearby attractions like Bodnant Garden and Conwy Castle.
Dinner at the hotel was a classic, elegant experience, with produce sourced from Bodysgallen’s own gardens, and the wine list was particularly impressive. Whether you’re curling up with a book by the fire or wandering the historic halls, Bodysgallen Hall is a place that invites you to slow down and soak in its timeless atmosphere.
For those seeking a luxurious stay infused with history, Bodysgallen Hall is undoubtedly one of the finest country house hotels in Wales, somewhere I know I’ll return to again.
Tre-Ysgawen Hall & Spa
Location: Llangefni, Anglesey | Nearest Train Station: Rhosneigr |
Number of Rooms: 29 | Highlights: Afternoon Tea
Set in the heart of the Anglesey countryside, Tre-Ysgawen Hall is the kind of place that feels like a well-kept secret. Originally built as a grand mansion in 1882, this award-winning country house hotel has retained its stately elegance while adding modern comforts like a luxurious spa, gym, and fine dining experiences.
It’s no surprise that Tre-Ysgawen Hall has held the prestigious Visit Wales Gold Award every year since 2010 – and after staying here, I can absolutely see why.
I was especially fortunate with the weather during my visit – glorious sunshine, the kind that makes you want to savor every minute outdoors. In fact, during the trip I actually managed to get sunburned. In Wales!
While I had envisioned cozy afternoons in the hotel’s charming library, with its rich wood paneling and shelves lined with books, I instead found myself drawn outside. The hotel’s gardens were the perfect place to unwind, with the peaceful grounds providing the ultimate backdrop for a day of relaxation.
For those seeking the full luxury experience, the hotel offers four-poster suites, traditional Afternoon Tea, and a Sunday Lunch that I highly recommend. Whether you’re indulging in the spa, taking a leisurely walk through the Anglesey countryside, or simply sipping a drink in the sunshine, Tre-Ysgawen Hall is the kind of place where time slows down, and every detail feels carefully considered.
It is located right in the heart of Anglesey, close to both Llanddwyn island and Beaumaris Castle – both items on my list of the best things to do in North Wales!
Penmaenuchaf Hall Hotel
Location: Dolgellau, Snowdonia | Nearest Train Station: Morfa Mawddach (20 minutes away) |
Number of Rooms: 14 | Highlights: Storybook Gardens & A Secret Prime Ministerial Escape
I only stayed at Penmaenuchaf for one night, but it’s been on my mind ever since – which should tell you something about just how special this place is. Set in the heart of Snowdonia, this elegant country house hotel feels like a hidden retreat, where lush gardens, grand interiors, and attention to detail create a true boutique experience.
When I visited in June, the gardens were in full bloom, with bright greenery and bursts of color making the whole property feel like something out of a storybook. Inside, every room had been thoughtfully decorated, each with its own distinct personality.
I was lucky enough to be given a tour of several rooms after check out time, and even learned that a former UK Prime Minister (I promised not to say who) used to come here to escape the pressures of office – which only adds to the hotel’s sense of exclusivity.
Since my visit, Penmaenuchaf has changed owners, and it’s now high on my list of places to return to. If it was this magical before, I can only imagine what it’s like now.
Twr Y Felin Hotel
Location: St. Davids, Pembrokeshire | Nearest Train Station: Haverfordwest (30 minutes away) |
Number of Rooms: 41 | Highlights: Luxury Art Hotel with Coastal Charm
I’ve been lucky enough to stay at Twr y Felin twice, and both times, the Pembrokeshire weather treated me well – which feels fitting, considering how bright and inspiring this hotel is. As Wales’ first contemporary art hotel, Twr y Felin blends boutique luxury with creativity, and a walk through its hallways is like visiting a modern gallery, with unique pieces scattered throughout the lounges and corridors.
If you stay here, I highly recommend taking a stroll around the hotel just to admire the artwork – mostly pieces commissioned especially for the hotel!
The lounge bar is as relaxed as it is stylish, and on my most recent visit – a Saturday – a piano player was setting the mood while I sipped on a dry martini made with Welsh gin (because what else would I order in a place like this?).
After a long day of walking along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path (the section by Barafundle Bay, one of the best beaches in Wales), I had one of the best sleeps ever in their incredibly comfortable bed. The hotel also leans into modern luxury, with in-room speakers you can control with dials on the wall, making it easy to set the perfect ambiance for your stay.
A proud member of the Rarebits Collection, Twr y Felin is a blend of art, luxury, and coastal charm – and the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again.
Lake Vyrnwy Hotel & Spa
Location: Lake Vyrnwy, Powys | Nearest Train Station: Welshpool (40 minutes away) |
Number of Rooms: 52 | Highlights: Breathtaking Lake Views
Some places are just meant for special getaways, and Lake Vyrnwy Hotel & Spa is one of them. I stayed here with my sister for a beautiful retreat, and I highly recommend bringing a friend or loved one – it’s the kind of place where you can completely unwind, soak in the views, and just enjoy good company.
Trust me, if you’re looking for luxury hotels in Wales with killer views, this is the one.
With a stunning lakeside setting, waking up here is an experience in itself. We slept like babies, then started the day with a lovely cooked-to-order breakfast overlooking the water – a view that’s so picture-perfect, it feels almost unreal. Of course, we also made time for the spa, because what’s a luxury stay without a little pampering?
One of the coolest things about Lake Vyrnwy is that parts of House of the Dragon were filmed here – so if you’re a Game of Thrones or fantasy fan, you’ll love knowing you’re staying right by a piece of Westeros. And if you’re booking a stay, I highly recommend upgrading to a lake-view room – out of their 52 rooms, 34 overlook the lake, and trust me, it’s worth it.
The Priory Hotel
Location: Caerleon | Nearest Train Station: Newport (15 minutes away) |
Number of Rooms: 27| Highlights: A Historic Escape (that’s even better after a nightmare drive)
I have never been more relieved to arrive at a hotel than I was at The Priory. After battling with my navigation, missing exits, driving in circles, and – at one point – ending up back on the M4 for several minutes, I actually cried in the car out of sheer frustration. To make things worse, it was dark and absolutely pouring with rain. So, when I finally reached The Priory, it wasn’t just a stay – it was salvation.
No, I’m not dramatic.
I checked into one of their Luxe rooms, and the lovely hotel manager/owner, after hearing about my ordeal, suggested I just have a bath and a glass of wine – which, honestly, was the best advice I’ve ever received. My room was spacious, stylish, and had a free-standing bathtub, which instantly turned my disaster of an evening into a luxurious retreat.
One thing I love about The Priory is how straightforward their room categories are – no fluff, no confusion. You book a Cosy, Comfy, Cottage, or Luxe room, and you know exactly what you’re getting. I spent two nights here, and it was the perfect base for visiting Raglan Castle, Tredegar House & Gardens, and my all-time favorite Welsh castle – Chepstow Castle.
The restaurant was a standout, serving Spanish-inspired cuisine with local Welsh ingredients – a combination that worked beautifully. Everything about my stay felt like a warm, welcoming escape, and after that drive, I couldn’t have picked a better place to recover.
The Priory is a truly unique hotel, with a history dating back to 1180 – it’s been a Cistercian Monastery, a Nunnery, private residence and a hotel since!
Roch Castle
Location: Roch, Pembrokeshire | Nearest Train Station: Haverfordwest (15 minutes away) |
Number of Rooms: 6 | Highlights: A Real-Life Castle with Five-Star Luxury
If you’ve ever dreamed of staying in a castle, Roch Castle is the place to do it. From the outside, this 12th-century fortress looks exactly as it has for centuries – standing tall on a hilltop, commanding views over the Pembrokeshire countryside and coast. But step inside, and you’ll find a stunningly modern, luxurious interior, blending historic charm with contemporary comfort.
Built in the late 1100s, Roch Castle was originally a border stronghold, protecting Anglicised Wales from the independent Welsh to the north. Or as I like to say, it separated “English” Wales from the “Welsh” Wales.
The first known inhabitant was a Norman knight named Adam de Rupe, and fittingly, I stayed in the De Rupe room, named after him – because if you’re staying in a castle, you might as well go all in on the history.
The experience was nothing short of surreal. I watched the sunset from the terrace, then woke up early to catch sunrise from one of the little castle nooks that have been beautifully furnished for guests. The way the soft morning light hit the stone walls was absolutely magical – it’s one of those stays that sticks with you long after you leave.
Harbourmaster Hotel
Location: Aberaeron, Ceredigion | Nearest Train Station: Aberystwyth (30 minutes away) |
Number of Rooms: 13 | Highlights: Seaside Boutique Luxury
Perched right on the harbourfront in the colourful town of Aberaeron, The Harbourmaster is a boutique hotel that blends maritime history with modern luxury. Housed in the former Harbourmaster’s residence, built in 1811, it’s a place where coastal charm meets effortless elegance.
If you book one of the original rooms, you’re guaranteed a harbour or ocean view, which makes waking up here something special. During my stay, I fully opened the French balcony doors, let the sea air rush in, and sat in the sun overlooking the water – one of those simple but perfect travel moments.
With its prime waterfront location, stylish yet relaxed vibe, and stunning views, The Harbourmaster is a dreamy escape for anyone who loves the coast.
Honorable Mentions: Welsh Luxury Hotels
Narrowing this list down to just 10 luxury hotels in Wales was no easy task – especially since I’ve stayed in over 40 incredible boutique and high-end hotels across the country. While these didn’t quite make the final cut for one reason or another, they’re still fantastic choices and absolutely worth considering for your own Welsh getaway.
- The Grove of Narberth – A stunning country house retreat in Pembrokeshire that’s widely considered one of the best luxury hotels in Wales. I haven’t stayed here yet, which is why I didn’t include it, but based on everything I’ve heard, it’s high on my list.
- Peterstone Court – A beautiful Brecon Beacons escape with gorgeous countryside views, a relaxing spa, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.
- Lake Country House & Spa – If you’re looking for a true countryside retreat, this hotel is surrounded by peaceful gardens, woodlands, and even a lake – with a fantastic spa to complete the experience.
- The Metropole Hotel & Spa – A classic Victorian hotel in Llandrindod Wells, perfect for a spa getaway with a touch of historic charm.
- St. George’s Hotel – A seafront gem in Llandudno, blending traditional elegance with modern comforts, and offering unbeatable views over the bay.
Wales is packed with luxury hotels, and no matter which one you choose, you’re bound to find a stay that’s both relaxing and unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
Wales is home to some of the most incredible luxury hotels, from historic castles to boutique coastal escapes and secluded countryside retreats. Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable romantic getaway, a countryside spa break, or a hotel with a serious wow factor, these handpicked stays offer something special.
Having stayed in over 40 luxury hotels across Wales, narrowing it down to just 10 was no easy task – but each of these hotels left a lasting impression and offers an experience that’s truly worth adding to your travel wishlist.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Wales and want to stay somewhere that’s a little extra special, these hotels should definitely be on your radar. Which one would you book first? Let me know in the comments!