Heritage celebrated in Wales

Housekeepers at the newly opened boutique-style Albion hotel’s one and two bedroom Granary Lofts at Cardigan in Wales may well stay on dry land but will be looking after rooms inspired by historic ship’s cabins. This is the first hotel venture of outdoor lifestyle and staycation specialists the Fforest group, and is based in two imposing Grade II listed former warehouses beside the River Teifi. The first lofts in the Bridge warehouse are now open, with 11 more rooms and family suites set to be available in the adjoining building from spring next year.

The maritime history connection comes from the Albion passenger ship which set sail for Canada from Cardigan in 1819, carrying families emigrating to a new life. This, and the buildings’ heritage is encompassed in traditional fittings and finishings using the likes of slate and reclaimed pitch pine.

But luxury touches like walk-in showers provide modern comforts and in December an outdoor sauna and Japanese inspired bathing facility will open in a woodland glade behind the hotel.