An idyllic family-run hotel with sea views at Penally, near Tenby, is for sale.

Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, has been instructed to market the award-winning Penally Abbey Hotel in Pembrokeshire.

Set in a village neighbouring the beautiful seaside town of Tenby, Penally Abbey has built a strong reputation over the past decade as one of Wales’s most charming boutique hotels, most recently winning the Best Hotel in Wales 2024 at the AA Awards.

Penally Abbey's history encompasses an ancient monastery, founded in the 6th century, a 12th-century chapel ruin and a 14th-century nunnery that was suppressed by Henry VIII, before the Gothic-style house that stands today was built.

The Boissevain family has lovingly restored the Grade II listed property, transforming it into a 12-bedroom coastal retreat with a destination 2 AA Rosette restaurant, Rhosyn.

Falling for the charming 18th Century property in 2014, Melanie and Lucas Boissevain saw a definite niche for a small, intimate luxury hotel. They worked closely with two of their three children, Saskia and Jacques to create this intimate luxury hotel and top quality restaurant. An interior designer by profession, Melanie got to work giving the hotel’s guest rooms an inspired new lease of life.

Stunning sea views - bedroom at Penally Abbey Hotel
Stunning sea views - bedroom at Penally Abbey Hotel (Christie & Co)

Under the Boissevains’ 11-year ownership, the hotel has become renowned for its romantic interiors, beautiful gardens, stunning sea views, and warm, family-led hospitality, attracting both UK and international guests.

Speaking about the decision to sell, Melanie Boissevain said, “Penally Abbey has been such a special part of our lives for over a decade. We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved here and of the wonderful team who have helped us create a hotel with real soul. With our family getting bigger and grandchildren now in our lives, the time feels right to hand it over to new custodians who can take it into its next prosperous chapter.”

Lucas Boissevain added, “This is a very personal decision for our family. Penally Abbey will always have a place in our hearts, but as we start to plan for retirement, we believe the hotel is ready for new owners to continue building on its success. It is an extraordinary opportunity to take on a much-loved property in a prime coastal location.”

The historic hotel’s decor reflects Melanie’s profession as interior designer
The historic hotel’s decor reflects Melanie’s profession as interior designer (Christie & Co)

The hotel is being marketed as a going concern, offering potential buyers a rare chance to acquire a thriving boutique business in one of the UK’s most desirable destinations.

Sam Roberts, Senior Agent at Christie & Co, is managing the sale process and added, “This is an outstanding opportunity to acquire Penally Abbey Hotel, set in one of Pembrokeshire’s most desirable coastal locations. With charming interiors, versatile accommodation, and a strong trading history, the hotel offers a ready-made business with scope to enhance revenue further. Ideal for an ambitious owner-operator, investor, or corporate entity, Penally Abbey Hotel combines lifestyle appeal with excellent commercial potential, making it a rare proposition in the Welsh hospitality market.”

For more information about the property, see the listing online here: https://www.christie.com/3440684/