Bryn Eithin

Penygroes 2.5 miles.

Bryn Eithin is a characterful traditional Welsh long cottage near Penygroes, Gwynedd, set on the fringes of Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) and well suited to families and friends seeking a single-storey retreat with a woodburning stove.

Follow the country road through the surrounding scenery, open the gate and pull onto the private driveway, where parking for four cars makes arriving and unloading straightforward.

Alongside the cottage, the large manicured lawn offers an inviting introduction to the generous outdoor space.

Head indoors and discover the shower room, where the walk-in shower is ideal for freshening up after a day exploring the countryside.

A step from the hallway leads towards the king-size bedroom, with exposed overhead beams bringing out the traditional character and ample storage providing plenty of space for your belongings.

Make your way back to the open-plan living space, where more exposed beams complement the inglenook and its woodburning stove.

Sink into the sofa or one of the armchairs as the fire flickers away, switch on the TV with Freesat for an easy-going evening, or connect to the WiFi to map out the next day's itinerary.

When it is time to eat, get creative in the kitchen with the electric oven and hob, microwave and fridge/freezer at hand, then let the dishwasher deal with the plates while everyone gathers around the dining table for four.

Take care as you duck beneath the low doorway into the conservatory, where a sofa and two chairs provide a spot to pause and gaze out over the garden.

Two steps from the sitting area lead towards the cloakroom and super-king-size bedroom, with exposed beams overhead and hanging space for clothing, while the zip/link bed can be made into twins on request for a flexible sleeping arrangement.

Make the most of brighter days outside by stretching out on the large lawn or settling around the patio furniture, with a purpose-built barbecue holder ready for meals beneath the open sky.

Bike storage is available for those bringing their cycles to explore the surrounding landscape, while muddy walking clothes can be given a refresh using the washing machine in the external utility.

Both the nearest shop and local pub can be reached with a short drive when you need supplies or fancy an evening out.

Spend a day in Caernarfon, a short drive away, where you can explore the historic castle, wander among the town's shops and restaurants, then climb aboard the Welsh Highland Railway for a scenic journey towards Porthmadog through impressive mountain landscapes.

Llanberis is also within easy driving reach and provides a gateway to Eryri National Park (Snowdonia), inviting you to pull on your walking boots, soak up the dramatic mountain scenery and enjoy a choice of outdoor pursuits.

When the coast calls, travel towards Anglesey and the Llŷn Peninsula to discover sandy shores, take to the water with a choice of water sports or fit in a round at one of the area's golf courses.

Following days filled with North Wales scenery, heritage and outdoor adventures, make your way back to Bryn Eithin near Penygroes for an evening beside the woodburning stove.