Two north Pembrokeshire hotels have been singled out for their excellence in the hospitality industry in this year’s Good Hotel Guide.

Ael y Bryn in Eglwyswrw has been awarded one of the guide’s ten César awards. Known as the Oscars of the hotel industry, these are presented to the guide’s most celebrated hoteliers who have demonstrated excellence in their field.

The bed and breakfast, run by Robert Smith and Arwel Hughes took the title of Welsh Guest House of the Year, it was commended for its genuinely warm welcome, art work, snug library and impressive breakfasts.

“This year’s César award winners reflect the rising standards of hotel-keeping across the country,” said the guide’s co-editors Adam Raphael and M. Astella. “All ten properties have been chosen for their immaculate service, warm welcome, fine hospitality and memorable individuality.”

Ael y Bryn has enjoyed editor’s choice status for value for the last two years but the owners had no idea that it had been singled out for a César. Unbeknown to them they were visited by a mystery shopper in March.

“We were surprised and delighted,” said Robert. “To be honest we didn’t expect anything. Once you’ve got the editor’s choice we thought that was probably it. It came completely out of the blue.”

Robert and Arwel received their award at the launch of the Good Hotel Guide in London last week and it is now proudly displayed in the hallway of Ael y Bryn.

“We do our best for visitors,” said Robert. “The award reflects our hard work, commitment and dedication to visitors. We have a high standard of quality and value. The food is legendary and our visitors keep coming back.”

Newport’s Llys Meddyg also stood out for the guide’s editors, who selected the restaurant with rooms as one of the Editor's Choice Gourmet Hotels.

Owners Edward and Louise Sykes were praised for their hospitality in an establishment that was the “best of its kind”. Llys Meddyg’s kitchen won plaudits for its “exceptional” cooking and “punchy flavours”.