Six stunning cottages and holiday homes named best in the country

Several Welsh properties have been whittled down to be named the best in the UK, as Portia Jones reports

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WINNING properties in the Sykes Gems 2025 Awards range from cosy wooden pods to private tidal island escapes.

This national awards programme recognises property owners for exceptional service, unique properties and positive guest experiences.

It also has groups of award categories, and every winner has been picked for outstanding service, standout style and a thoughtful guest experience that makes you start planning your return before you've even checked out.

Six Welsh stays scooped awards this year, and these are the winning properties...

1. THE KITES NEST - BEST FOR COUPLES

This snug wooden pod surrounded by peaceful woodland won gold in the Best for Couples category, and it's easy to see why.

The Kites Nest in Pont-rhyd-y-groes, Ceredigion, is an adults-only pod with a distinctive curved roof, circular windows and patio doors. It offers glorious views of the countryside and is ideal for a cwtchy weekend away.

It's a snug stay for two, featuring a modern studio layout with one double bed, a kitchen and a sitting area with a comfy double sofa bed.

While you have the option for a digital detox, if you're keen to keep up with your favourite Netflix series, the pod has WiFi, a TV projector and a pull-down screen for a cwtchy movie night.

Despite the pod's compact size, the kitchen has plenty of amenities for whipping up a meal, including a microwave oven and hob, fridge/ freezer, kettle, toaster and coffee machine.

Outside is a sitting area where you can unwind with a book, or head out on to the decking to take in the epic views of the hills, valleys and woodlands beyond.

These views are a dreamy backdrop for your evening spent with a cheeky glass of wine or indulging in a dip in the opulent copper bath in a hidden private garden. Bliss.

2. YNYS FAELOG - BEST FOR VIEWS