The Sandcastle

4.3★

12 Guests
6 Bedrooms
6 Bathrooms
Pets Yes
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Features

Hot tub
Swimming pool
Four poster bed
Off road parking
Ground floor accommodation
Ground floor bedroom
Open fire
Garden / Patio
Cot available
Highchair available
Washing machine
Dishwasher
Games Room
Seaside
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

13 Customer Review(s)

Rodolfo
October 2024

“We had a wonderful stay at the Sandcastle in October 2024.”

The location was fantastic, just a short walk from the beautiful beach, making it ideal for our family. The stunning sea views from almost all bedrooms were a highlight. The kitchen was spacious, although the absence of saucepan lids was a bit odd. We experienced some patchy Wi-Fi, but it wasn’t a major issue for us. There was ample parking for our three cars. Overall, a great getaway

The location was fantastic, just a short walk from the beautiful beach, making it ideal for our family. The stunning sea views from almost all bedrooms were a highlight. The kitchen was spacious, although the absence of saucepan lids was a bit odd. We experienced some patchy Wi-Fi, but it wasn’t a major issue for us. There was ample parking for our three cars. Overall, a great getaway

- Rodolfo, October 2024
Amanda September 2024

“The location of the property is wonderful but the state of the property itself seems a bit neglected, dirty in places and lacking in general upkeep.”

That said, the kitchen was well equipped and the pool and hot tub were well maintained and the games room was a big plus, although the bar area needs attention. The en-suite bathrooms in all but 2 of the bedrooms were small and perfunctory and were not clearly described on the property description. The property has WI-FI but it was unreliable and the cellular service was non existent. All of these things may not matter if you are just concerned with the location and scenery, but if you are expecting luxury accommodation ( £10,000 for a 10 day stay) this is not the place. Mike and Linda were very friendly and amenable when issues arose and although we had a memorable holiday, we were a bit disappointed in the general condition of the property.

- Amanda, September 2024
Valerie May 2023

“We left our comments at the property.”

It was lovely but a bit overpriced. Wouldn’t hesitate to go again if the price was right.

- Valerie, May 2023

Thank you for your review. You commented about pricing. This is a very expensive house to run as I am sure you will appreciate and, in order to reduce the wear and tear, we have re-priced from winter 2023/2024 according to the number of guests. We have also set a minimum price below which it is uneconomic to open. This price really only becomes relevant when booking through a third party agent. Booking direct will always be cheaper. Mike Property Owner
Berverly February 2023

“Beautiful property, sadly many things are lacking for the prices charged.”

Positive note the beds are very comfortable, every room has a bathroom. The games room is brilliant space .The cleaners are not doing the job properly, for £4000 for 4 days you would expect the windows to be clean, windows shills etc . Bathrooms clean but several radiators are extremely degraded and rusty. The place should be sparkling. Enough plates to feed an army but nowhere to put your food except fridge. Decoration is good on the whole but some very random art work put together, lovely curtains but need to be hung properly. We didn't get to use swimming pool it was leaking and cold which is a shame and we should of been told before our stay as we would of change location. IF ALL THE TWEAKING WAS DONE ON THIS PROPERTY TO MAKE IS WORTH THE MONEY IT WOULD BE MAGNIFICENT. DONT GET ME WRONG WE HAD A GREAT TIME , IT JUST WASNT WHAT WE ORDERED

- Berverly, February 2023

Your comments have been taken on board. * Totally agree about my photos. Ikea BADLY let us down as the frames which are delaminating. We are in the process of reframing. * Windows can get salt-sprayed in a day. They are cleaned every week. Outside is usually the job of maintainance. The cleaners should clean outside if maintainance is called away. * Curtains hooks in a couple of rooms were missing recently. Now sorted * Fridge space SHOULD be enough. There is one under-counter fridge in the kitchen. as well as the main US style fridge and there is always room in the bar fridge. There is a nest of larder shelves with dry goods left by previous guests (like rental villas on the continent) AND ALL IN DATE but perhaps we could house everything in the cupboard outside the kitchen - as the under-counter larder is not ideal. * Radiators (presumably you mean towel rails) go rusty VERY quickly. We have used chrome polish but they will not be changed until next year AND the rust is not THAT bad to be honest. By the way, you are only the second person to have noticed it since we opened in 2018 (when the towel rails were brand new) * Swimming pool is awaiting a complicated repair but perfectly useable at 4ft deep - which a lot of public pools are - instead of 5ft 6" as is normal for us in the winter. Also the solar panels and heat pump are giving us 28C (82F) when I looked today and the guests' children were having a whale of a time. We always aim for it to be over 77F. We will be back to normal winter height between 5ft 6" and then to summer depth (6ft 6") in mid - March when the very rare pool repair men FINALLY arrive from Europe. We will be showing chapter and verse on our website to explain how this indoor/outdoor pool is supposed to work. By the way £4000 for 4 nights is £83 per person per night for 12. Anyway, we take your comments very seriously and always strive to do better. Thank you Property Owner
Julian December 2022

“Wrong price listed.”

Wrong check in tome sent. Beautiful location, gorgeous views and right on the beach at Freshwater East. Not vey clean, No attention to detail. Poor kitchen utensils, pots and pans. Old food left in cupboards. Strict “rules” on recycling but no caddy bags or bin bags. Owner accused us by text of leaving dog poo in garden, we didn’t even have a dog!! This could be a wonderful place but let down. Swimming pool not available for 3 days at start which disappointed grandsons.

- Julian, December 2022

Your comments have been taken on board. * Not sure about pricing. That is down to Sykes. It is all clearly stated on our website. Check-in is at 3.30 but we are always around to let you use the loo and leave your cars if you are a bit early. We usually suggest a walk on the beach. * We are always adding utensils, but there is little time to do other than a cursory inventory every week. We usually rely on notes left by guests before they leave and I try and say goodbye at 9.30 and pick up all the feedback. This gives us time to restock breakages before the next guests arrive at 3.30. This system clearly needs perfecting. * Lack of waste bags entirely my fault. That should NOT have happened. * There is a nest of larder shelves with dry goods left by previous guests (Like rental villas on the continent) AND ALL IN DATE but perhaps we could house everything in the cupboard outside the kitchen - as the under-counter larder is not ideal. * Swimming pool is awaiting a complicated repair and occasionaly needs topping up with cold water hence the temporary temperature drop. This will be done (finally) in March. We will try and detail chapter and verse on our site to explain how this indoor/outdoor pool is supposed to work. As far as the dog (or lack of one) is concerned. I thought my note was more of a question than an accusation! I did apologise as it was my fault that I did not spot the poo from the previous guests! Thank you anyway and, do contact us before your next visit to make sure you get the best price available. Property Owner
Zoe March 2022

“Fantastic location and house, plenty of room & great to sit on the balcony overlooking the beach watching the sun rise/ set - beautiful!”

Good facilities particularly the pool & hot tub. Great location. Would definitely come back.

- Zoe, March 2022
Peter January 2022

“The Sandcastle is an incredible property with breath taking views.”

It had everything on our wish list; beach location, stunning views, heated pool, steam room, games room, wood burner, BBQ. The only disappointment for us was that the hot tub wasn't working, but everything else more than made up for it. We have been incredibly lucky to have booked again for October and we can't wait to go back. We felt very privileged to have been able to stay here and really cannot say enough about it.

- Peter, January 2022
Antonya July 2021

“Superb property with multiple facilities for rain and sunshine.”

Beautifully appointed and on a very fine location. The Sykes information did not tally with that of the owner's!

- Antonya, July 2021
Jennifer October 2019

“The Sandcastle is a house that's actually, on the beach, just steps away from the shore.”

The living/dining area has huge fold-back doors leading on to a big balcony. The kitchen is extremely well equipped, all bedrooms are en-suite, plus 2 additional toilets. The games room & the heated (covered) swimming pool are a massive bonus, for younger children & teens. There's lots to see & do around the area, which, in my opinion, makes it a perfect holiday choice. I visited here (oct 5th-12th)with my family,age range 10months to 70yrs, & we all thoroughly enjoyed... will definitely be returning. Wholeheartedly recommend!

- Jennifer, October 2019
Helena August 2019

“The view is breath taking.”

The area isn't busy - you often feel like you have the whole beach to yourself.

- Helena, August 2019
Steph March 2019

“A group of us stayed here for the weekend and had a truly wonderful time - the house is set in a beautiful location and is clean and very comfortable - the pool was lovely and warm at all times and all the facilities worked perfectly.”

We would all come back here in a flash! Thank you to the owner of the house who was very welcoming and helpful if we needed him.

- Steph, March 2019
Mark February 2019

“This cottage is in a fabulous position - within literally a stones throw to a gorgeous beach .”

Our three dogs were in heaven . Facilities fantastic with a welcoming pool and steam room after many long dog walks amongst some of the best dog friendly beaches we've ever seen - Manobier , Barafundle , tenby - the list goes on. A warm welcome from the owner Mike who looked after us perfectly - I would have no hesitation in recommending this cottage. Mark + Julie

- Mark, February 2019
Mark February 2019

“Stunning property in a fantastic location, we can't recommend a holiday here any more than to say we really didn't want to leave.”

- Mark, February 2019

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Summary

Please note: for bookings within 6 weeks of departure where the group size is less than 12 the owner may offer a reduced price; please call the Sykes Reservations Team for more information
Six bedrooms: Lower ground floor - 1 x four poster double with en-suite bathroom with bath, separate shower, basin and WC, 3 x super king-size doubles with en-suite shower, basin and WC, 1 x trundle bed with en-suite shower, basin and WC, Ground floor - 1 x king-size master bedroom with en-suite bathroom with bath, hand-held shower, separate shower, basin and WC
Kitchen, opening onto the balcony with a charcoal barbecue
Utility
Living/dining room with log fire
Games room
Swimming pool
Hot tub
Steam room
Outside shower and pool cloakroom
Underfloor and central heating with convector log fire
Gas/electric range cooker, coffee machine, microwave, fridge/freezer, dishwasher
Laundry with washing machines, tumble dryers
Smart TVs and WiFi throughout
Kayak and paddle board available
Fuel, power and logs for fire inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Travel cot and highchair available
Parking for 4 cars only
Sheltered West-facing lawned and walled garden with “tropical” veranda, hammock and furniture
Heated indoor/outdoor swimming pool with remote-controlled telescopic all-weather enclosure
Two well-behaved dogs welcome £12 extra per day, per dog
Sorry, no smoking
Shop 2.5 miles, pub 100 yards
Note: The owners 1952 Buick Convertible is available (by appointment) for chauffeured sight-seeing trips around the area – weather permitting - at an extra charge
Note: No stag/hen or similar
Note: No jet skis allowed in area
Note: This property is only suitable for a maximum of 12 people including infants
Note: Low occupancy discount options are available on this property, please call our reservations team to find out more

The property

IF NO MORE THAN 5 ROOMS ARE BEING USED FOR BOOKINGS THROUGHOUT 2023, PLEASE CONTACT THE RESERVATIONS DEPARTMENT FOR A REDUCED RATE.

THIS IS ONLY APPLICABLE IF BOOKING WITHIN 6 WEEKS OF THE START DATE.

Overlooking the golden sands and crystal waters of Freshwater Bay, The Sandcastle offers panoramic views across the bay, backed by craggy headlands and sheltered by red sandstone cliffs.

Situated in south Pembrokeshire, this breath-taking coastal retreat, with uninterrupted sea views, allows families and friends to fully relax in Colonial comfort whilst benefiting from 21st century technology!

Picture the scene; you enter the villa through a sub-tropical walled garden and in through a laid-back verandah, with hammock, rocking chairs and rattan, - perfect for capturing the last of the evening rays - and there beyond a 6ft wide glass door is an ultra-wide open-sided living room, looking out onto a magnificent glass-covered balcony framing your very first view of the sea - right there, just metres away!

There is an access ramp down to the beach garden and from there steps cut into the bank allow your own access straight down onto the dog-friendly sandy beach.

For those with limited mobility, there is a slipway right next to the property.

On those wet and windy days and nights, the massive balcony doors close and you can enjoy the warmth of a log fire, at the same time being mesmerised by the waves crashing onto the rocks across the bay.

On those stormy days, when the conditions are really bad everywhere else in South Pembrokeshire, the surfers will put on their own private show just for you - right outside your window.

The kitchen has a 6-burner range cooker - which will please the most discerning of chefs amongst you - and whilst the home-made dining table seats 12, there is a separate table for the children if needs be.

The ground floor master suite has its own private balcony screened off from the main area and its ample bathroom sports a spa bath and a separate shower.

All of the lower bedrooms have tiled floors with underfloor heating and come with en-suite shower rooms.

There is also a honeymoon suite with a beautifully upholstered, four-poster bed and a separate bath/shower room.

All the bedrooms have wide French doors with integral blinds and sea views.

The sun rises over the sea and floods into the rooms.

There is an all-weather, ecologically-heated, saltwater, infinity pool which allows access from inside the house and swimming under the motorised enclosure in the colder months.

During the summer you will probably want to sunbathe on the sheltered suntrap pool deck with its commanding view of the beach, followed by a shower in our tiny banana garden – and all accompanied by the sound of sheep in the neighbouring field.

From there we might suggest the bespoke steam room.

This holds about five or six guests and will remove any remaining cobwebs in its 60c heat.

With a bit of prior planning, you should allow 45 minutes for this to warm up.

Suitably relaxed, why not sit out on the veranda with a chilled glass of wine and be entertained by the gannets out to sea, as they dive in search of fish.

Should you wish to join them out on the water, there is a kayak and paddleboard provided.

The recreation room boasts a table tennis and a ¾ size snooker table.

The village of Freshwater East is situated to the south of Lamphey and offers a pub and restaurant.

The 160 mile, coastal Path is a delight to walk in either direction, and nearby Lamphey boasts a (request stop!) railway station running services from Pembroke Dock to Paddington – at certain times without even changing at Swansea.

Further afield, Pembroke with its medieval fortress, castle and river, makes a wonderful day out with the whole family.

Grab your walking boots and watersports gear, and sink into the most restful of breaks at The Sandcastle!

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £500.

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About the location

FRESHWATER EAST

Lamphey 2.5 miles; Pembroke 4.1 miles

Freshwater East offers golden sands and clear blue waters backed by green craggy countryside and sheltered rocky sections. The dunes behind the beach are a local nature reserve known as The Burrows. The village is situated to the south of Lamphey, on the south west of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. You will find a pub and a restaurant as well as plenty of accommodation. The Coast Path in either direction is a delight. Walk east to remote Swanlake Bay and on to Manorbier, or take a journey west to Stackpole Quay, then carry on to Barafundle Beach. Freshwater East has a history dating back to the Iron Age, with the remains of a fort at East Cliff. During the Victorian period it was part of a busy social scene and very popular for outings and picnics. Lamphey is situated just 2 miles away and offers a small shop, a traditional pub and two restaurants, as well as Lamphey railway station on the Pembroke Dock branch running services along the West Wales Line. There are many watersports to take up in the area including; sailing, canoeing, surfing and water skiing, or you can simply relax on the beach and play ball games. With its elevated position, overlooking the bay, this wonderful destination draws visitors from all over. Pembroke is a medieval walled town about 4 miles north, with a magnificent castle, shops and tea rooms. A destination not to be missed!

Note: If 2 to 8 people maximum are staying throughout 2023, please contact the Reservations Department for a reduced rate. This is only applicable if booking within 6 weeks of the start date. Reservations - please contact the owner to confirm the rate.

This property is only suitable for a maximum of 12 people including infants

Maximum 2 well behaved dogs at £12 per dog per day

Parking for 4 cars only

Please Note: Bookings must check-in on a Friday or a Monday

This property offers the following short breaks:

Winter
Off-season
Last minute

Freshwater East, South Wales & Pembrokeshire (Ref. 991641)

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“We had a wonderful stay at the Sandcastle in October 2024.”

“The location of the property is wonderful but the state of the property itself seems a bit neglected, dirty in places and lacking in general upkeep.”

“We left our comments at the property.”

“Beautiful property, sadly many things are lacking for the prices charged.”

“Wrong price listed.”

“Fantastic location and house, plenty of room & great to sit on the balcony overlooking the beach watching the sun rise/ set - beautiful!”

“The Sandcastle is an incredible property with breath taking views.”

“Superb property with multiple facilities for rain and sunshine.”

“The Sandcastle is a house that's actually, on the beach, just steps away from the shore.”

“The view is breath taking.”

“A group of us stayed here for the weekend and had a truly wonderful time - the house is set in a beautiful location and is clean and very comfortable - the pool was lovely and warm at all times and all the facilities worked perfectly.”

“This cottage is in a fabulous position - within literally a stones throw to a gorgeous beach .”

“Stunning property in a fantastic location, we can't recommend a holiday here any more than to say we really didn't want to leave.”

Summary

The property

View on map

About the location

FRESHWATER EAST