Four Gwent hotels have been recommended as hotels of distinction in a prestigious Welsh guide.

THE 20th anniversary issue of the Welsh Rarebits brochure lists four Gwent hostelries as among the finest places to stay in Wales.

Membership of the prestigious list, which now stands at 44, is by invitation only.

Welsh Rarebits founder Emyr Griffith said he looks for good personal service and an enthusiastic, warm welcome from the hotels he lists.

"I am passionate about hotels which offer high standards," said Emyr. "Not just in food and surroundings, but in that all-important third dimension - that elusive quality variously defined as atmosphere, ambience, or best of all, Croeso, the Welsh word for welcome."

The four Gwent hotels are:

* Allt-yr-Ynys Country House Hotel, near Abergavenny

* The Crown at Whitebrook, near Monmouth

* The Inn at the Elm Tree, near Newport

* The Newbridge, Tredunnock, near Usk

Welsh Rarebits lists Allt-yr-Ynys Country House Hotel, at Walterstone, as having an "idyllic borderland location" beside the River Monnow, with many period features and lots to see and do locally, including Offa's Dyke.

The Grade II listed building, it adds, is historic, but with lots of modern touches.

Monmouth's The Crown at Whitebrook is described as Wales's first "restaurant with rooms." It is a "renowned gastronomic hideaway" with superb scenery.

Set in the picturesque Wye Valley between Chepstow and Monmouth, the hotel gives a warm welcome to visitors.

The Inn at the Elm Tree, in St Brides Wentloog is praised for having a clever blend of traditional and modern, with beautifully designed rooms with "every possible comfort."

The guide also states that The Inn has established a reputation for culinary excellence.

Finally, The Newbridge in Tredunnock, near Usk is called "an outstanding newcomer". It has a relaxed atmosphere, good food and a lovely riverside location.

The guide says the Newbridge is: "One of a zestful new breed that is bringing freshness and fashion to Wales's hotel and restaurant scene."

* For details of the Welsh Rarebits brochure call 01686 668030.