By Joanne Ridout

Copyright walesonline

Some buildings are so enchanting that their special ambience and historic charm can easily captivate just from photos and this stunning property near Tenby is a prime example. Grade II* listed by Cadw in 1970 for being ‘a well-detailed Gothic house of around 1800′ its mesmerising façade, magical gardens with sea views, and gorgeous interiors have combined to create, within its most recent chapter of life, a multi award-winning hotel and restaurant. The Gothic-style former rectory effortlessly oozes character inside and out that make it a distinctive and inviting destination, and is in a prime location too, nestled within the pretty coastal village of Penally, one mile along this incredible coastline from Tenby and within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and close to some of Wales’ most stunning beaches. For more property stories sent to your inbox twice a week sign up to the property newsletter here . READ MORE: A golf course in the heart of a Welsh city is selling off one of its holes YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Update on distinctive building on a busy city road that’s shrouded in banners Called Penally Abbey Hotel the multiple award-winning establishment is now on the market with Christie & Co, Hotels with a guide price of £2,250,000. Over the past decade, Penally Abbey has established a strong reputation as one of Wales’s most charming boutique hotels, most recently scooping the Best Hotel in Wales 2024 at the AA Awards. The Boissevain family have lovingly restored the Grade II listed property into a 12-bedroom coastal retreat with a destination 2 AA Rosette restaurant, Rhosyn. Under the 11-year ownership of Melanie and Lucas Boissevain, the hotel has become renowned for its romantic interiors, beautiful gardens, stunning sea views, and warm, family-led hospitality, attracting both UK and international guests. Speaking about the decision to sell, Melanie Boissevain said: “Penally Abbey has been such a special part of our lives for over a decade. We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved here and of the wonderful team who have helped us create a hotel with real soul. “With our family getting bigger and grandchildren now in our lives, the time feels right to hand it over to new custodians who can take it into its next prosperous chapter.” Lucas Boissevain added: “This is a very personal decision for our family. Penally Abbey will always have a place in our hearts, but as we start to plan for retirement, we believe the hotel is ready for new owners to continue building on its success. It is an extraordinary opportunity to take on a much-loved property in a prime coastal location.” The building itself is a Grade II* listed limestone mansion with architectural significance, nestled within six acres of gardens and woodland. The building received its higher level of Grade II* from Cadw in 1970 for being ‘a well-detailed Gothic house of around 1800’. A former rectory, the property was built in a unique gothic vernacular style, featuring large windows and ogee-headed doors that create a delightful first impression. The specific location is special too – extensive grounds and elevated sea views on a site that informs its name according to Cadw – ‘its proximity to the ruins traditionally believed to have been part of an abbey’. Inside, the boutique destination hotel offers 12 beautiful ensuite rooms and a casual fine dining restaurant with cosy corners and snugs, making it an ideal choice for people seeking coastal break in luxury yet relaxed environment within a tranquil setting. The public areas at Penally Abbey Hotel have been thoughtfully designed to reflect the building’s historic character while providing stylish spaces for guests to unwind. Each area combines period charm with a boutique, homely feel. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed into a grand Gothic-style entrance hall that showcases the hotel’s elegant period architecture. Antique furniture, curated artwork, and soft furnishings contribute to an immediate sense of character and comfort. The drawing room, a central space for guests, boasts high ceilings, large windows with garden views, and period fireplaces. Adorned with plush sofas, armchairs, and an array of eclectic antiques, it’s the perfect spot for reading, enjoying afternoon tea, or sipping evening drinks. The warm, informal atmosphere is enhanced by soft lighting, muted tones, and homely details, all in line with the country house style. For more property, renov ation, a nd interior design stories join our Amazing Welsh Homes Facebook group here . The hotel also features a cosy bar area, ideal for pre-dinner drinks or nightcaps, while the snug offers a more intimate setting, often warmed by a log fire during the cooler months, adding to the overall sense of comfort and relaxation. Rhosyn, the hotel’s highly praised restaurant, is another key public space. The main dining room, lit by candles and accommodating around 40 covers, is designed for intimate fine dining. A light-filled conservatory adjoins the restaurant, providing garden views and a bright contrast to the cosier feel of the dining room. Afternoon tea is served in these spaces, often extending onto the terrace in good weather . One of the most memorable rooms is the event space, with double-height ceiling featuring exposed beams, plus two sets of glass doors opening out into a charming internal courtyard. All public areas maintain a consistent design theme: a blend of historical charm with contemporary elegance. They are homely yet sophisticated, inviting guests to linger, whether for socialising, reading by the fire, or savouring the sea views. The formal grounds represent roughly an acre of well-tended gardens bordering a further five acres of mature woodland. The woods are subject to a Tree Protection Order but there is a woodland management plan in place and the woods have recently been thinned with 250 new trees planted to increase the diversity. The hotel is being marketed as a going concern, offering potential buyers a rare chance to acquire a thriving boutique business in one of the UK’s most desirable destinations. Sam Roberts, Senior Agent at Christie & Co, is managing the sale process and added, “This is an outstanding opportunity to acquire Penally Abbey Hotel, set in one of Pembrokeshire’s most desirable coastal locations. “With charming interiors, versatile accommodation, and a strong trading history, the hotel offers a ready-made business with scope to enhance revenue further. Ideal for an ambitious owner-operator, investor, or corporate entity, Penally Abbey Hotel combines lifestyle appeal with excellent commercial potential, making it a rare proposition in the Welsh hospitality market.” For more information about the hotel, on the market with a guide price of £2,250,000 call Christie & Co, Hotels on 0333 034 1752.