I recently spent a weekend agreeably snowbound at The Red Kite: a friends’ B&B located a short drive from Hay-on-Wye on the Welsh borders in Herefordshire. The Red Kite is run by Juliette Fernandes and Neal Smith, and offers an idyllic retreat in the Welsh countryside, combining a taste of luxury with a good dash of genuine home comfort, accompanied by heartfelt organic cooking. Juliette’s a naturally gifted and highly trained wholefood cook who can cater for all dietary requirements. I had a chance to sample a few of their breakfast menu dishes, as well as a couple evening meals and tasty snacks which emerged from the Aga. (Slow cooked Lamb Shanks or Roast Organic Chicken anyone?)
And as for the setting… it’s spectacular. The Red Kite is nestled on the brow of a hill, which (I’m assured) offers breathtaking views of the Black Mountains and the Brecon Beacons. While I was there, the views were obscured by low cloud and snow, but I was still blessed to experience an extraordinary Welsh winter snowscape, and enjoyed walks on the hills and farmland nearby which included encounters with wild horses that roam the hills.
If you’re looking for an extremely nourishing break away in the Welsh countryside, look on further. For more information, check out their website, or contact Juliette & Neal by email.
