Rural Retreats was founded in 1985 with the aim of making the countryside more accessible for holidaymakers and giving them the best possible choice of holiday homes across the UK. Rural Retreats’ continuing success is based on excellent local knowledge and painstaking research, together with a flair for finding delightful and unusual properties. All of this has enabled us to build a portfolio of over 450 exceptionally fine holiday homes in stunningly beautiful locations, all available for you to rent. When you are looking for your own perfect holiday home, our experienced and helpful staff can help to point you to the property of your dreams. Whatever you want to ask about any of our properties, there will be someone on our staff who knows the cottage or apartment at first hand.

In a peaceful Wye Valley hamlet near Chepstow, this hidden romantic retreat enjoys superb far-reaching views towards the Black Mountains. Cosy and private, with bags of character and charm, Orchard Cottage is an ideal bolt-hole for exploring the beautiful border countryside.

Information correct at time of writing. The attractive historic town of Chepstow is just four miles away boasting one of the oldest stone built castles in Britain. Chepstow Castle is wonderful place to visit, just 7 minutes drive away. The gothic masterpiece of Tintern Abbey is two just two miles away. The remains of wonderful abbey remain are steeped in history and you can see clearly the remains of over 400 years of building between 1131 and 1536 when it was handed over to Henry VIII’s officials. It is outstandingly beautiful and the setting just has to be seen to be believed. A little further, but worth the 40 minute drive is Llanthony Priory. Further up the river Wye is the interesting border market town of Monmouth and the Royal Forest of Dean. Two first class golf courses are within easy reach, St Pierre (10 minutes) and Celtic Manor (25 minutes). Monmouthshire is fast becoming a bit of a foodie haven, we have some wonderful pubs and fantastic restaurants including The Parva Farmhouse in Tintern, a very old building on the edge of the River Wye Tintern which serves a limited menu from locally sourced produce, and is a true fine dining experience. Customers from Orchard Cottage and Anne's Hut will be given a glass of fizz on the house! And The Wild Hare, also in Tintern, with an excellent menu and is just 5 minutes drive. Racing at Chepstow A real “local” racecourse. When there is a race meeting here, the whole town seems to go. Host to the Welsh Grand National and frequent other meetings. It really is a great day out. By car, 5 minutes away. Clay pigeon shooting (At Keepers Lodge) Run by a father and son team this is great fun to do. As this is a working farm you can go there 7 days a week and will be well looked after. Beginner or expert, Clive or Bob will look after you. Ring in advance. By car, 20 minutes away. Diving and Zip Wire (At the National Diving Centre) There is a large flooded quarry for the diving enthusiasts and one of the longest,...