Ariel, Marcross, Llantwit Major

About this property

In association with Trinity House, we are pleased to present Ariel at Nash Point Lighthouse. One of two former lighthouse keeper's cottages available on the Glamorgan Heritage Coast, with its wonderful sandy beaches and coastal walks. Just 10 minutes drive away is the beautiful seaside town of Llanwit Major, and Cardiff and Swansea can both be reached within an hour.

In association with Trinity House, Rural Retreats is pleased to present Ariel at Nash Point Lighthouse.

Built in 1832, Nash Point Lighthouse was erected following the loss of many vessels and lives to the Nash Sands. Originally lit by Argand burners; followed by paraffin 'Hood' burners; and later 1,500 watt electric lamps during the 1960s, eventually to be replaced with 150 watt. Now the 20 mile range light is automated and controlled from Trinity House's Planning Centre in Harwich, Essex. The last of the lighthouse keepers left in 1998, and two of the four dwellings have been converted into cosy holiday cottages with all the comforts expected by the 21st century explorer; complete with luxurious mattresses, bedding and towels, well-equipped kitchens, and comfy sitting rooms. The sympathetic restoration process has ensured the ambience of the original dwelling remains, with no bells and whistles, but all the creature comforts needed for an authentic headland stay experience. Unsurprisingly at such a remote location, there is no Wi-Fi here and very little mobile phone reception, the perfect excuse to switch off completely and just relax! A landline telephone is provided for any unexpected emergencies.

Stella's generous single-storey accommodation includes a sitting room; a separate dining room; and a modern fully-equipped kitchen. There are three bedrooms; one with a king-size bed, a twin room and a single room; the modern family shower room has a walk-in shower and a separate loo with an additional wash basin. Outside, an enclosed, gravelled garden provides a private spot to enjoy an al-fresco meal on the stone garden furniture provided.

There are wonderful safe beaches, many of which have been awarded the coveted blue flag. In particular, there is Ogmore-by-Sea (just over 4 miles away), Barry Island, Southerndown and Porthcawl, which are particularly good for windsurfing. A short drive away (just over 8 miles) Cowbridge offers a good range of shops with small boutiques, craft and art galleries and excellent restaurants and pubs. Further along the coast is the famous Gower peninsula and walking on the Mumbles.

Now a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to a rare plant, the Tuberous Thistle (Cirsium tuberosum) discovered within the grounds of the station in 1977.

Also available to book at this location is Stella, sleeping five guests.

Additional Information:

Two well-behaved dogs welcome (small additional charge).

Travel cot and high chair available on request.

The lighthouse does not have a fog horn.

There is no WiFi available at Ariel and very limited mobile signal. A landline telephone is provided.

Guests should be aware that the lighthouses and equipment need regular and sometimes emergency maintenance. Therefore visits by maintenance staff may occur at any time during the year. However, staff will do their best to ensure guest privacy at all times.

Guests are reminded they are renting a heritage building, therefore certain features such as steps, stairs and floor levels may not comply with that of a modern building. As such, we would advise guests to acquaint themselves with the premises on arrival and exercise caution accordingly.

Access roads to the lighthouse site are narrow with limited passing places and, dependent on the season and site, there is the possibility of overhanging vegetation due to cutting restrictions during bird breeding seasons or other environmental reasons.

The perimeter of the site is fully fenced and gated but once outside this area, it is very dangerous for children staying at the holiday cottage. Please ensure children are supervised at all times.

A barbecue is not provided, however guests are welcome to bring their own, subject to adhering to the safety precautions set out in the arrival information.

Sorry, no fireworks, drones or remote controlled flying equipment are permitted.

Please be advised, there is no facility for charging an electric car at this property and charging of an electric car is not permitted.