“Pros:
The property is well-maintained, beautiful, and has amenities in abundance.”
Parking is not a problem, either.
The kitchen is very well-equipped and clean.
The host very kindly provided shampoo, conditioner and snacks.
Local cafes, chippies, beaches and hikes are quite accessible from the property (obviously, you need a car.)
Cons:
The property was very cold. The first one or two days, we could control the temperature, however the thermostat then locked itself and could not be adjusted. We contacted the owner (via Sykes) and found out the property owner could ...
Parking is not a problem, either.
The kitchen is very well-equipped and clean.
The host very kindly provided shampoo, conditioner and snacks.
Local cafes, chippies, beaches and hikes are quite accessible from the property (obviously, you need a car.)
Cons:
The property was very cold. The first one or two days, we could control the temperature, however the thermostat then locked itself and could not be adjusted. We contacted the owner (via Sykes) and found out the property owner could control the temperature remotely, which could not be set beyond 25°C because the boiler was faulty.
We requested the temperature be set as high as possible, to which it was placed at 22°C, which was still too cold. We would have benefited from the temperature being set at the maximum 25°C.
We thought of using the available fireplace to add extra warmth. However, the wood didn't light up despite our numerous attempts. We visited the local supermarket to purchase wool wood to help the fire ignite, yet every attempt to light the fire was short-lived.
By the time we finished attempting various DIY solutions (plus doing our sightseeing), our stay came to an end, so we didn't get the chance to contact the property owner a second time regarding the central heating/fireplace.
Another issue is that the hot and cold water regulation on the shower is very temperamental so be prepared to fiddle with the taps for a good amount of time. There was no shower gel/body wash, so make sure to get your own.
At the time of leaving, we were asked to strip used bedsheets and place them in the bathtub - not sure if this is the customary request in holiday stays?
Lastly, the space is a bit small, so avoid getting large amounts of luggage. This isn't really a disadvantage, but worth noting that big luggage isn't suitable for the property.
Overall verdict:
Overall, I would recommend the property to others because the property is value for money.
Although the 'negative' paragraph is longer, it really was just the temperature. My wife is thalassemic and from the Middle East, which means she feels colder than the average person. Maybe on hot summer days, temperature wouldn't have been an issue. But on cooler days (15°C or less), the home would feel draughty to anyone (health condition or not, as even I felt cold.)
The property was clean overall, but there was dust and cobwebs in some corners.
Once the issue with the temperature is fixed, I'd say the property is value for money.
Thank you very much for your review, we are so happy you found The Stables clean & well-maintained; it really is a beautiful property.
We’re sorry that you found the property cold, this year has been one of the coldest summers we've had on record. Apologies for the inconvenience with the boiler, sadly it is unable to maintain temperatures above 25c for long periods of time, running the risk of it locking itself out. If you’re not used to lighting log burners, they can be a little tricky.
We are delighted you would recommend The Stables & you were generally happy with the property & thought it good value! We do hope you can visit again soon!
Property Owner