Twr y Felin Hotel

It’s all about the art of creating a very special hotel… stunning, specially commissioned art on the walls, interior design imbued with artistic flair, and artisan workmanship applied to no-expense-spared rooms. All in arty St David’s. If ever there was a hotel totally in tune with its surroundings it’s this one. St David’s is a very arty place. There’s something in the air in this tiny cathedral city that stirs creativity and passion. It has certainly worked its magic on Twr y Felin. But first, an admission: we don’t usually welcome new hotels into Welsh Rarebits until they have proven themselves.

Twr y Felin has just opened, but we have absolutely no hesitation in inviting it into the fold. It’s part of an exclusive group we know very well (nearby Roch Castle and Penrhiw Hotel). Twr y Felin is destined for great things. Described as a ‘contemporary art hotel’ you’ll see striking, bold, arresting paintings everywhere – over 100, in fact, specially commissioned from 12 artists of international repute. It’s indicative of the thought, inspiration, meticulous planning and fastidious execution that have gone into this stunning hotel, based around a restored and extended former windmill tower. Correction: the interior has been crafted more than restored, using only the finest materials applied with precise attention-to-detail.

The look is cool, clean and modern, with subdued tones specially chosen so that the art punches out from the walls. One space in particular – called, appropriately enough, Oriel (meaning gallery) – serves as the most arty lounge we’ve ever come across. Bedrooms and suites come with super comfy, super king-sized beds and impeccable bathrooms, while the Blas restaurant specialises in fine dining based on locally sourced ingredients.

Your experienced host at this exceptional newcomer is Paula Ellis.