Tied in a Bow April 2015 | Page 42

hâteau Rhianfa is a beguiling architectural treasure sitting in a commanding setting overlooking the Menai Strait on the Isle of Anglesey, off the north-west coast of Wales. This stunning Grade II listed gem is an inspiring wedding venue boasting landscaped gardens and spectacular views over the mountains of Snowdonia. This beautiful venue provides an oasis of tranquillity and boasts an array of exquisite function rooms oozing with lavish elegance. With rich heritage, stunning sea views, and breath-taking architecture, Château Rhianfa is just waiting to make all of your wedding dreams come true.

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This wonderfully restored château originally symbolised a token of love between Sir John Hay-Williams after he spent over a decade from 1849 creating this masterpiece for his beloved wife. The name of the property was carefully considered and was submitted to several distinguished Welsh scholars before being fully adopted. The name ‘Rhianfa,’ which means ‘ladies habitat’ or ‘place of abode,’ was well received and liked for its soft and euphonious qualities. Having chosen a suitable name, the next task was to select a style of architecture and develop designs for the house. Lady Sarah believed the ever popular Gothic style to be ‘rather hackneyed’ and was keen to choose a more individual and unusual style. The Williamses drew inspiration from their experiences of travelling in the Loire region of France and chose five castles to base their design upon – Blois, Chambord, Amboise, Chenonssaux, and Chaumont. Features from each of these castles are evident at Château Rhianfa, although on a much smaller scale.

Having been lovingly refurbished, this incredibly romantic château is more stunning than ever before, combining fairy tale charm with modern luxury to provide incredible wedding experiences with a real touch of enchantment. Originally designed to represent the Polish crown jewels, any photographer will be inspired by the spectacular views and inviting shores of the Menai Strait. Being nestled within such awe-inspiring natural beauty lends itself perfectly to incredible wedding photographs, with stunning backdrops and incredible views as standard.

With an abundance of stunning ceremony rooms, steeped in romanticism and boasting breath-taking views, Château Rhianfa is an ideal wedding canvas restricted only by your imagination. This stunning venue has the capacity to host up to 80 guests for your ceremony or seated reception and can accommodate 120 guests come the evening celebrations. From the exquisite Banqueting Hall to the quirky underground Wine Cave, Château Rhianfa provides a rich tapestry complete with unsurpassed ambiance and versatility.

Château Rhianfa not only provides the perfect romantic setting for your wedding celebrations but also 16 gorgeous rooms, each fashioned with their own character and personality. Providing the ideal space to relax after a long day celebrating, these stunning rooms are so appealing that many guests end up staying for a few more days than they had anticipated! These individually designed rooms have a decidedly contemporary slant with opulent colour combinations, richly tactile fabrics and decadent furnishings. Complete with stylish bathrooms and inspiring views from every window, these rooms are the perfect place to unwind.

On top of this, Château Rhinafa has six additional bedrooms spread between three self-contained cottages in the grounds, ideal for guests with young children or for those who prefer a little privacy.

To complete the nuptial experience, spend your first night as newlyweds in our luxurious Bridal Suite. As well as a gorgeous bathtub to sink into which gazes out across the Menai Strait and peaks of Snowdonia, this beautiful room comes complete with cosy bathrobes and unbeatably soft sheets.

Food is another speciality at Château Rhianfa, with our award-winning head chef and his talented team taking pride in carefully sourcing local produce, including meats from the local butcher and fine cheeses from the Snowdonia Cheese Company. With the freshest ingredients, you can rest assured that each dish delivers an incredible taste sensation. Listed within the 2014 Michelin Guide, Château Rhianfa takes pride in offering you the most incredible dining experience in North Wales. Our chefs are happy to tailor a celebratory menu to suit your tastes perfectly. From delicious canapés to impressive banquets to sumptuous cakes, you and your guests are sure to adore the Château Rhianfa dining experience.

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