With sweeping views to Snowdonia across Cardigan bay, this 'rare jewel in an idyllic setting' has been run by four generations of the Fletcher-Brewer family since it opened in 1948. It has built up a loyal following among guide readers, who praise the consistently good offering; some who once came for bucket-and-spade holidays now sip G&Ts on the terrace as the grandkids swim, play table tennis or tuck into high tea. Guests who have been at least once a year for the last 14 years reported that they had 'always found the staff warm and welcoming, the rooms charming and quirky, the service excellent and the food exceptional'. Bedroom style is a mix of traditional and contemporary, with a sea or countryside view; there is also a shepherd's hut and self-catering cottage. Most rooms have an over-bath power shower, some a walk-in shower only. At night, little ones can eat high tea before early bed; there are baby-listening devices. Adults can sit down to a meal that might feature rack of Welsh lamb with mini shepherd's pie or grilled monkfish with smoked haddock and mussel chowder. (Paul and Helen Davies)