Groesffordd

3.6★

4 Guests
2 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
Pets Yes
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Features

Ground floor bedroom
Open fire
Garden / Patio
Cot available
Highchair available
Washing machine
Dishwasher
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

16 Customer Review(s)

Barbara
September 2023

“Groesffordd was okay but could be really lovely with a bit of TLC.”

Floor covering in kitchen looking worn and tired. Shower wasn't powerful enough, my husband had to scrub the rubber mat for the bath because it was black mold on the underneath. He also had to clear the plughole in the bath because it was blocked with hair. Duvet and and bottom sheet wasn't large enough for two single beds joined together in double room. The twin bedroom was too cold to use, no wardrobe provided in this room and little draw space. The open fire in lounge kept blowing the smoke ...

Floor covering in kitchen looking worn and tired. Shower wasn't powerful enough, my husband had to scrub the rubber mat for the bath because it was black mold on the underneath. He also had to clear the plughole in the bath because it was blocked with hair. Duvet and and bottom sheet wasn't large enough for two single beds joined together in double room. The twin bedroom was too cold to use, no wardrobe provided in this room and little draw space. The open fire in lounge kept blowing the smoke back into the room. The storage heaters weren't working and the oven wasn't working when we arrived.. Menai Holidays were very good at sorting out oven problem for us but the heaters were still not working when we left. The owner was kind enough to give us a refund for inconvenience caused.

- Barbara, September 2023

Dear Barbara and Robert Thank you for your feedback. We are very sorry you found so many elements of your stay at Groesffordd unsatisfactory. Especially considering that there are three portable electric heaters at the property as well as the open fire. When we spoke to you the day after you arrived, I asked if you were warm enough and you confirmed you were. I offered to send another heater to you, if you wanted me to. We gave you a discount for your stay (which then averaged out at about £25 per person per night) and provided you with an unlimited amount of fuel for the fire. The shower was new this year . There is no gas supply to the cottage so an electric shower is the best we can do. We’re sorry it did meet your expectations. I called you within 24 hours of your arrival to provide you with help to turn on the oven and try to get the night store heaters working. You told me when we spoke that you are both in your 80's, and Robert has a chronic health condition. Under these circumstances, it may be worth spending a bit more on accommodation for your next holiday, and staying at a hotel? Best wishes, The Owner Property Owner
Robert September 2023

“On Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday of our holiday it rained all day and water flooded the kitchen to the extent that there was a flow from the kitchen back wall to the kitchen door.”

The adjacent bedroom carpet was soaked as was the mat in the kitchen. As there was no mop we used a broom to push the water to the kitchen door to prevent the whole room flooding. The garden had clearly been neglected for months and the bin was full of full bags which had accumulated for many weeks. There were no instructions for rubbish disposal and we did not know the local bin regime.

- Robert, September 2023

Dear Robert and Barbara Thank you for your two feedback comments. We are very sad to receive two such critical reviews when we did everything we could during your stay to try to make you warm and comfortable and to respond to your various complaints. When our housekeepers attended the property the day after you left, they could find no evidence of the flooding you reported. The garden is, by design, a cottage garden. Sometimes we are unable to mow the small lawn between guests as the weather does not allow, but I can assure you, it has not been 'neglected for months'. I explained to Barbara when I spoke to her on the phone at the beginning of the week about the rubbish disposal. Perhaps she did not tell you? I do think you may need to spend a bit more than £25 pp per night for your next holiday, in order to ensure a comfortable and fault-free stay. Best wishes, The Owner Property Owner
Michael August 2023

“Arrived 18th August with our grandaughter (8) unfortunately the weather was not on our side, however we did not let this deter us from having an enjoyable stay making memories, the views from the studio window were amazing looking down on caernarfon bay and our grandaughter was fascinated by the sheep and rabbits how close they came to the window.”

We also enjoyed our daily trips out (llamberis, llandudno, conway etc) The whole experience was delightful.....Thank you kind regards Mike, Janet, Libby : )

- Michael, August 2023

Dear Mike, Janet and Libby Thank you so much for your lovely review and positive feedback. We're so pleased you had a delightful experience and had an enjoyable stay, making memories. Yes, the wildlife experience from the studio is great, isn't it? We do hope you'll come back again soon Best wishes, The Owner Property Owner
Alison August 2023

“Cottage was clean and very well-equipped.”

Luxury huge double bed was very comfortable. We enjoyed the views to the sea from the large light living room. It would have been nice to have a welcome pack with instructions on how to use the oven and information on local shops, cafes etc. The nearest shops are Fron and Penygroes, neither of those places were mentioned in the info from Sykes Cottages.

- Alison, August 2023

Dear Alison Thank you so much for your review and comments. We are so pleased you enjoyed your stay at Groesffordd. We now provide a detailed visitors' guide and think that your feedback on that subject was fair and useful. Thank you for the suggestion. Thanks also for making us aware of the shop in Fron, which we weren't aware of previously. Much handier than Penygroes, for the essentials! We hope we'll see you back at Groesffordd soon. Best wishes The Owner Property Owner
Mr Firmager Jul 2023

“My son loved it, the layout, the location, talking to the nosey sheep and watching the lights come on in the bay at night really appealed to him.”

A very good base for visiting castles and the many narrow gauge railways that Wales is blessed with. A few instructions on how to use the oven or even the WiFi would have been handy. Worked it all out in the end.

- Mr Firmager, Jul 2023
Mark & Kirstie Jul 2023

“A lovely, restful break.”

Nice hot weather. Gorgeous views of sunsets. Dogs enjoyed the freedom of garden and house. Fantastic week here , very cosy, enjoyed the views, sheep and fire. But quick question: why is the sink overflow at almost the same level as the plughole?!

- Mark & Kirstie, Jul 2023
Susan June 2023

“We have photos which speak for themselves.”

The holiday cottage is a disgrace and is breaching, in our opinion, all advertising standards. To come back from a holiday where all your luggage and clothes reek of damp. The damp "twin" room has no wardrobes, just coat hangers from screws in the walls. Had to store clothes and retain in our suitcases in the very damp pantry. (Photos available) Also in the twin room, we met another guest, a snail crawling on the rug disgusting and very distressing. The next night we found another one on the wall behind the bed nearest the window. (photo available) This was removed pronto. In every room, reed diffusers have been placed to obviously try and mask the damp smell. The pantry ceiling appears to leak as we found water on the window ledge (photos available) after heavy rain and the ceiling is all damp. The cleaning of the cottage is non-existent, filthy in a word as photos illustrate. Garden is a mess; the lawn not mowed, roses are all overgrown over the arch and footpath as are shrubs when entering the pedestrian gates. A collection of chicken wire, old rusty iron bars and barbed wire are used in two separate places in the garden and add to the squalor of the place. not good for children or elderly persons (photos available) The outside brown waste food bucket is mouldy and has not been cleaned out, see photo of same. The whole place looks as if it has been fitted out from a very bad second hand shop. Furniture is ancient and worn, photos available. Curtains in the lounge are very badly stained, dirty and dropping to bits (photos available) The throws over the sofas were not clean. The bedding on the twin beds was grubby and mismatched, photos available of a split duvet and marked pillowcase. The duvet on the double bed was not big enough for the bed. The sofas and beds had black dog hairs all over them obviously where pet had been on them which I know is not allowed. Our pet was not allowed near any of the furnishings but previous renters had not adhered to this. But your cleaners should ensure all is good for next renters which was not done before our visit. This cottage is far from the standard I expect from Sykes Cottages having had numerous accommodations in the past.Where a hospitality tray and visitors manual was provided but not here. When plugging in the electric radiators, the only form of heating, apart from an open fire. The hairdryer each time used overloaded the electricity sockets tripped the electric. I had to ring Sykes to find out where the consumer unit was. There was no instructions left about how to use cooker, microwave or washing machine. Electricity sockets were overloaded all had extension leads or numerous plugs in an adapter. Various photos available. We had no contact details or instructions about the recycling had to ask neighbour when the blue bins went out, but did not know about the Green or Brown one so we left where they were and had not been put out previously as were disgusting. The cottage needs a dramatic upgrade in my opinion and is a health and safety nightmare. (VARIOUS PHOTOS AVAILABLE) When it comes to installing a washing machine in a bathroom, there are a few things to bear in mind. In the UK, due to strict building regulations, plug sockets can’t be fitted in the bathroom unless they are at least three metres from the bath or shower. The electric socket for this was just hanging from the ceiling loosely behind, hence we never used the washing machine as we were very worried it would cause a fire or overload the system. The photos on your website of this cottage makes it look very nice which it could be with a lot of maintenance, deep cleaning and gardening. The views from the lounge and double bedroom windows are very nice Was very good to have smart TV and WI FI but was very cold with only having 3 electric heaters, the storage heaters could not be operated and had no instructions. If we had put on the fire every night we would not have had enough wood for the week. We have lots of photos we could send you to validate our findings. If you can let me have e mail or postal addresss to get these to you. We were so looking forward to this visit and have been very disappointed, All of us have come home with chesty coughs and colds due to the damp conditions. I hope for future renters that you ensure improvements are done or you may continue to get more complaints. I understand people have different ideas and standards of cleaning but this has not even had the basic cleaning done before we rented. Asked if we would rent the cottage again definitely a big NO. Would not give it any star rating at all,. In every room, reed diffusers have been placed to obviously try and mask the damp smell. The pantry ceiling appears to leak as we found water on the window ledge (see photo) after heavy rain and the ceiling is all damp. The cleaning of the cottage is non-existent, filthy in a word as photos illustrate. Garden is a mess; the lawn not mowed, roses are all overgrown over the arch and footpath as are shrubs when entering the pedestrian gate. A collection of chicken wire, old rusty iron bars and barbed wire are used in two separate places in the garden and add to the squalor of the place (see photos) The outside brown waste food bucket is mouldy and has not been cleaned out, see photo of same. The whole place looks as if it has been fitted out from a very bad second hand shop. Furniture is ancient and worn (see photos). Curtains in the lounge are very badly stained, dirty and dropping to bits (see photos) The throws over the sofas were not clean. The bedding on the twin beds was grubby and mismatched, see photos of a split duvet and marked pillowcase. The duvet on the double bed was not big enough for the bed. The sofas and beds had black dog hairs all over them obviously where pet had been on them which I know is not allowed. Our pet was not allowed near any of the furnishings but previous renters had not adhered to this. But your cleaners should ensure all is good for next renters which was not done before our visit. This cottage is far from the standard I expect from Sykes Cottages. When plugging in the electric radiators only form of heating apart from an open fire and hairdryer each time the electricity sockets tripped the electric. I had to ring Sykes to find our where the consumer unit was. There was no instructions left about how to use cooker or microwave or washing machine. Electricity sockets were overloaded all had extension leads or numerous plugs in an adapter. Various photos available. We had no contact details or instructions about the recycling had to ask neighbour when the blue bins went out, but did not know about the Green or Brown one so we left where they were and had not been put out previously as were disgusting. Various photos available. When it comes to installing a washing machine in a bathroom, there are a few things to bear in mind. In the UK, due to strict building regulations, plug sockets can’t be fitted in the bathroom unless they are at least three metres from the bath or shower. The electric socket for this was just hanging from the ceiling loosely behind hence we never used the washing machine. We were very worried we would cause a fire or blow everything up. The photos on your website of this cottage makes it look very nice which it could be with a lot of maintenance, deep cleaning and gardening. The views from the lounge and double bedroom windows are very nice Was very good to have smart TV and WI FI but was very cold with only having 3 electric heaters, the storage heaters could not be operated and had no instructions. If we had put on the fire every night we would not have had enough wood for the week. We were so looking forward to this visit and have been very disappointed,. All of us have come home with chesty coughs and colds due to the damp conditions. I hope for future renters that you ensure improvements are done or you may continue to get more complaints. I understand people have different ideas and standards of cleaning but this has not even had the basic cleaning done before we rented. Asked if we would rent the cottage again definitely a big NO. Would not give it any star rating at all.

- Susan, June 2023
Amanda June 2023

“The Cottage was absolutely lovely.”

The view of the Common Land and sea coast was wonderful. It was like going back in time to some story you read when younger. The rooms and furnishings were clean, comfy and lots of them. So many useful and things could be found tucked away in drawers and cupboards that helped you so much to enjoy the experience. We met some very friendly folk around the village of Y Fron and really enjoyed the wonderful beaches and towns in the area. Our dogs too were thrilled with teh long walks and paddling in the waves. Thank you.

- Amanda, June 2023

Amanda, Thank you for your lovely review. We’re so pleased you and your dogs had a great stay at Groesffordd. Hope to see you back soon! Property Owner
Gary June 2023

“Perfectly situated with stunning panoramic sea views.”

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in this querky gorgeous cottage, if it's a quiet glass of wine on the terrace listening to the countryside you crave or a base for exploring the Snowdonia National Park your in the right place. Plenty of historic towns, villages and Castles aswell as it's industrial heritage all on your door step. Simply "you can't go wrong"

- Gary, June 2023
Mark & Mandy Jun 2023

“The cottage is wonderful, stepping back in time with so much room for 4 people.”

It feels so cosy and bright- View from lounge and bedroom is truly beautiful- Rough common sheep grazing & wide horizon. Totally everything is provided in duplicate and triplicate. Kitchen and bathroom so easy to access- warm and clean after a day on a windy beach. Front garden is cute & lovely to sit in with a cuppa and our dogs! I was very intrigued and delighted with the artwork of Iola Spatford and wondered if her work was famous within the family, or perhps whether her painting collection was bought at an auction? We loved this quirky cottage, in particular the garden. Great memories! We visited Dinas Dinlle beach, Caernarfon, Porthmadog, Criccieth, Pwllheli, Abererch. Ate at local venues. Thank you for all your work. x

- Mark & Mandy, Jun 2023
Gary & Debbie Jun 2023

“Ideally situated as a base to explore places further afield.”

Visited Porthmadog, Mount Snowdon, Caernarfon, all within easy driving distance. A great experience had, stunning views and would certainly visit again.

- Gary & Debbie, Jun 2023
The Workies Jun 2023

“Stayed here for 11 nights and can't fault it.”

A lovely house in a very peaceful setting, not too far from amenities but far enough for it to feel like a getaway! It's a shame we had to work whilst staying here! The host Claire is very accommodating and makes sure you are comfortable. Many Thanks.

- The Workies, Jun 2023
Jane May 2023

“My husband Martin and I have spent a wonderful few days with friends at Groesffordd in North Wales.”

It is a comfortable, fresh, light cottage with all the amenities. The studio/lounge has amazing views with incredible sunsets over the Menai Straits to Llanddwyn Island on Anglesey, with the sheep peering in the windows. One evening was chilly so we had a roaring fire. It was a perfect few days. Thank you.

- Jane, May 2023
Alicia Apr 2023

“My daughter and I have stayed at this quaint quintessential Welsh cottage on numerous occasions.”

It's a restful, peaceful place with enviable views of the coast. The sunsets are stunning! Coastal accommodation with everything you need for a relaxing break. Ideally located, within easy reach of the breathtaking beach of Dinas Dinlle & Caernarfon Castle. Also easy access to host of wonderful places in North Wales. If you're looking for a break from the hustle & bustle of daily life then look no further!

- Alicia, Apr 2023
Victoria Dec 2022

“A truly wonderful place to stay.”

You can only love it. You will feel at home immediately, as will your dogs! It’s comfortable and cosy and the perfect place to spend a few days at any time of the year. There are also lots of great places to visit in the near vicinity. We have spent many happy moments there and can thoroughly recommend this happy place. You can only love it.

- Victoria, Dec 2022
Henrietta Nov 2022

“I have been lucky enough to spend some idyllic weekends at Groesffordd in both the summer and the winter months.”

The cottage has everything you need, whether it be a cosy winters evening by the fire or sitting outside enjoying the bucolic views. I would describe Groesffordd as home from home. It is clearly a loved family cottage with a truly inviting feel. There is so much to explore nearby, a wonderful beach, quaint villages where you can buy all your groceries or have a delicious pub meal and lots to see. If you enjoy walking there are walks directly from the front door or a short drive away. You can start, or finish your day with the most incredible sunsets looking out to sea through the sitting room window. Truly a place to switch off and recharge the batteries

- Henrietta, Nov 2022

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Summary

Single-storey
Two bedrooms: 1 x super-king-size, 1 x twin
Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin, heated towel rail, WC and washing machine
Cloakroom with WC
Kitchen/diner
Sitting room with open fire
Electric central heating
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, fridge/freezer, washing machine and dishwasher
Smart TV and WiFi
Fuel, power and starter pack for open fire inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Highchair, booster seat & travel cot available
Parking on common for 2 cars
Enclosed, front garden with lawn and barbecue
Two well behaved dogs welcome
Sorry, no smoking
Shop 3.2 miles and pub 0.9 miles
Note: The pipe from the washing machine must go into the bath when in use

The property

Nestled in the rolling Welsh countryside in Upper Llandwrog near Bontnewydd, Gwynedd Groesffordd.

This welcoming single-storey former miners’ cottage, dating back to the 17th century, has retained much of its original charm and benefits from two well-appointed bedrooms, a spacious sitting room with breath-taking sweeping views of the coast, from Anglesey and the Menai Straits over to the Llyn Peninsula.It has an established, enclosed garden, with plum trees, blackcurrant bushes, lavender, honeysuckle and climbing roses.

In an unbeatable location close to Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, it's just a 15 minute drive to Dinas Dinlle’s fantastic sandy beach, and within easy access to the endless wonders of North Wales.The perfect choice for small families, friends or couples looking to explore Gwynedd.After a day of exploring, return to the cosy comfort your new home-from-home.

Relax and socialise with a drink in the spacious kitchen/diner, while you rustle up a hearty meal that the whole family can enjoy around the dining table.On warmer evenings why not step outside to delight in alfresco dining with a barbecue?

After dinner, retire to the spacious sitting room with spectacular views down the mountain to the coast.

Snuggle up on the plush sofa basking in the warmth of a roaring log fire, and flick on the Smart TV for a well-earned movie night or enjoy family time with a board game or jigsaw, as you watch the sun set over the sea.

As the evening draws to a close, enjoy a relaxing soak in the full-size bath before sloping off to sleep in either of the comfortable super-king-size or twin bedrooms, both of which enjoy views of the pretty garden.If you can tear yourself away from this quaint dwelling, take a short drive into the villages of Bontnewydd or Penygroes to stock up on all your essentials at the local store or treat your loved ones to a delicious meal at The Newborough Arms.

This rural area is steeped in history and boasts spectacular walking routes, amongst free roaming sheep and cattle., You could head to St Cybi’s Well or down to Caernarfon to tour its magnificent historic castle, the Segontium Roman Fort and town walls.

You can also cross over to Anglesey to continue the historic excursion at Plas Newydd House and Gardens, Beaumaris Castle and Beaumaris Court and Gaol.

Family activities nearby include the Anglesey Sea Zoo, Gypsy Wood Park, Snowdon Mountain Railway or sailing and windsurfing at Plas Menai.Eyri National Park is also within reach, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts it offers ample walking and hiking opportunities including up the spectacular Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) as well as watersports, climbing, caving, mountain biking and even Zip-lining, there is truly something for everyone!

Make lasting memories at Groesffordd.

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £100.

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About the location

BONTNEWYDD, GWYNEDD

Caernarfon 2 miles; Llanberis 8.5 miles; Bangor 11 miles

Bontnewydd is a village sitting just outside of Caernarfon in North Wales, it sits at the confluence of the Rivers Beuno and Gwyrfair. The village offers a couple of shops, a fish and chip shop and a friendly pub serving food. The royal town of Caernarfon is just two miles away, dominated by a stunning castle, a wealth of charming buildings and many amenities. As well as miles of idyllic coastline at your doorstep, the renowned Snowdonia National Park is also within easy reach, boasting dominating mountains with breath-taking walking and cycling country to explore, as well as activities such as Bounce Below and Zip World for the thrill-seekers. The picturesque village of Llanberis is easy to reach and offers much to the visitor including the National Slate Museum, Llanberis Lake Railway, Castell Dolbadarn and more. Also worth a visit is the city of Bangor, while the Isle of Anglesey, slightly further afield, plays host to a wealth of unspoilt countryside, heritage and much to see and do.

This property offers the following short breaks:

Winter
Off-season
Last minute
Christmas

Y Fron near Bontnewydd, Gwynedd, North Wales & Snowdonia (Ref. 1127393)

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“Groesffordd was okay but could be really lovely with a bit of TLC.”

“On Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday of our holiday it rained all day and water flooded the kitchen to the extent that there was a flow from the kitchen back wall to the kitchen door.”

“Cottage was clean and very well-equipped.”

“My son loved it, the layout, the location, talking to the nosey sheep and watching the lights come on in the bay at night really appealed to him.”

“A lovely, restful break.”

“We have photos which speak for themselves.”

“The Cottage was absolutely lovely.”

“Perfectly situated with stunning panoramic sea views.”

“The cottage is wonderful, stepping back in time with so much room for 4 people.”

“Ideally situated as a base to explore places further afield.”

“Stayed here for 11 nights and can't fault it.”

“My husband Martin and I have spent a wonderful few days with friends at Groesffordd in North Wales.”

“My daughter and I have stayed at this quaint quintessential Welsh cottage on numerous occasions.”

“A truly wonderful place to stay.”

“I have been lucky enough to spend some idyllic weekends at Groesffordd in both the summer and the winter months.”

Summary

The property

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About the location

BONTNEWYDD, GWYNEDD