THE GOWER HOTEL | FOOD REVIEW
11 Church Lane, Bishopston, Swansea. Info: 01792 234111/ www.thegowerhotel.co.uk
Perfectly located in the heart of The Gower, this delightful boutique hotel has recently been taken over and now being run by a local Welsh family. The Gower Hotel is minutes away from Oxwich Bay and a stone’s throw away from Caswell and Langland. We stayed overnight in the accommodation at the back of the hotel that allows dogs, they can sit in the conservatory if you want to eat in there, or if well-behaved can stay in the room while you eat. The standard is excellent, the decor quirky and fun; Lyn and her family have made The Gower into a ‘home from home’ with personalised little touches throughout. The weekend we stayed we were lucky enough to try the chef’s Celebrating Wales Menu. The five-course menu included canapés, rissole, Welsh rarebit, cockle popcorn, cawl with lamb and root vegetables, sea bass with laverbread, rosti and local shellfish, Welsh beef, faggots, fondant potatoes and roasted vegetables. This was followed by bara brith with Penderyn whiskey ice cream, plus a couple of bottles of Sancerre – beautiful. The food was exquisite and the whole experience was a mini holiday in a couple of days. If ever you are considering a break not too far away I can absolutely recommend The Gower, whether you have a dog or not you will be equally welcomed. Ollie (our spoilt dog) had a brilliant time, they also provide food and treats (for pets) and wellies and coats (for humans, obviously). Every little detail is well thought out and makes your stay special; with some fabulous events over Christmas and the New Year, it would be a perfect getaway for the holidays.
words ANTONIA LEVAY