Swn Y Gwynt | Criccieth | Self Catering Holiday Cottage

3.9★

6 Guests
3 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
Pets Yes
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Features

Off road parking
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

37 Customer Review(s)

Benjamin
October 2023

“What a beautiful location, the views were to die for.”

The house was lovely, everything in it you would need for a weeks stay. The only down side was the uncomfortable bed and the terrible smell of damp through the whole property. We choose this place for its stunning location as it was a special holiday for us, our honeymoon. We stayed here from the 21st to the 28th of October 2023. Despite its faults we would stay here again. Ben and Sue.

The house was lovely, everything in it you would need for a weeks stay. The only down side was the uncomfortable bed and the terrible smell of damp through the whole property. We choose this place for its stunning location as it was a special holiday for us, our honeymoon. We stayed here from the 21st to the 28th of October 2023. Despite its faults we would stay here again. Ben and Sue.

- Benjamin, October 2023
Helen August 2023

“New decking improvements are fantastic.”

Appreciated the new kitchen appliances too, yes the kitchen itself is dated but everything functions. The views are simply stunning and are why we booked the property. The mattresses will need replacing soon. Can’t wait to book again.

- Helen, August 2023

Thank you for your feedback. I have taken your comments onboard. We look forward to seeing you back again. Property Owner
Neil July 2023

“The kitchen and living area smells of cigarette smoke.”

The hobs on the cooker are ancient and incapable of getting to a high temperature The extractor fan on the cooker doesn't work so the fire alarm is CONSTANTLY going off. The shower is unusable. The shower head is far too low down so taller people can't use it; the pressure is shower REALLY low so it's little more than a trickle....the worst thing is that you CANNOT get the shower to a reasonable temperature... it's either freezing cold or burning hot ... when you adjust it it takes a long time to change to your new setting... we ended up NOT being able to use the shower and had to have baths... which is the last thing you want in summer. This house cost us £1700 for a week; for this amount of money we expect to be able to cook and wash without any problems. We came home early as a result. The décor is very old fashioned. Charging this amount of money is unacceptable. Worst holiday house we've had the misfortune to book. Would never return here. Sykes should take this off their books until it is sorted..... but the owners will continue to rake in the cash for a substandard property.

- Neil, July 2023

" Thank you for taking the time to review your stay at our property however it is a shame you did not contact us during your stay when we would have been able to resolve some of these points you have raised. The housekeeping team has been ask to look into the smell mentioned. A lot of refurbishment was done during the winter, with a new hob installed so we are surprised with some of the issues you mentioned. The photos are an accurate depiction of the property though we are awaiting the opportunity to have new ones done following the change to the balcony. " Property Owner
Stephanie June 2023

“Lovely spacious house The house has amazing view from the kitchen and the new balcony where the conservatory once stood.”

I wasn't sure I had the right house when I pulled up outside. The weather was very hot for June and we spent a lot of time on the balcony. also from the high position of the house you can see when the sea tide is in or out for a long walk on the beach. Dogs are allowed on the right side of the beach. Kitchen was spacious and well equip with new appliances, I was surprised there wasn't more cleaning products on hand. The bathroom is very outdated. The main concern for us was the mattresses in both double bedrooms,they are very used and very uncomfortable you sink right into the springs which did effect our sleep all holiday.

- Stephanie, June 2023
Diane June 2023

“Location is amazing with stunning views of the sea to the front and fields to the back.”

Handy to walk to the beach or Criccieth. The new balcony is great and as it was so hot we were able to spend a lot of time there. The bathroom is getting tired and would benefit from repairs to ceiling, bath tap and replace cracked shower screens that have been repaired with sticky back plastic, or preferably a total upgrade. I love the quirky porthole though. My big gripe is the strong smell of stale cigarette smoke in the upstairs floor which is lounge, diner, kitchen, utility and WC. The heat may have made have intensified this. I found 12 air fresheners around the property but these only made the situation worse so were put outside during our stay. Downstairs bedrooms smelled fine without air fresheners. I would say the mattresses, duvets and pillows are ready for replacing though. The surrounding garden is lovely although not secure at all. I have asked Sykes to add this to their description as it is important to know if you are taking dogs.

- Diane, June 2023
David May 2023

“Fantastic house downstairs toilet needs flush sorting and I agree with 1 camera ...”

Fantastic house downstairs toilet needs flush sorting and I agree with 1 camera over oil tank but another camera over garden area watching what you are doing so you should state 2 cameras otherwise everything was fine decking and handrail very good fantastic views thanks

- David, May 2023
Stephen May 2023

“What a place”

- Stephen, May 2023
Susan April 2023

“Swn y Gwynt is a lovely house in an excellent position, with fantastic views of Cardigan Bay.”

There is a great decking area for relaxing outside. It was unfortunate that we were unable to make much use of this, due to the weather conditions while we were there. The house is spacious and the kitchen is very well equipped. I don't think we have ever stayed in a property with quite so much crockery and cutlery. There are also ornaments in abundance. We didn't use the bbq area, but it is another level space for sitting outside. Some areas of the garden are very steep, as is the drive. The house is only a short walk from the town and beach, but part of this is also steep and some less able people might find it a challenge. Our only criticism of the house would be the smell of stale cigarette smoke, which hit us as soon as we entered the back door. The owners are clearly aware of this problem, as there are a variety of air fresheners in every room, but the overpowering scent from these only added to the problem for us. We opened windows and doors when possible, which helped a bit. We noticed that there had been no entries in the visitors book since October 2022 and wondered if maybe the house has not been used much recently, so has not been aired? I am sorry to criticise the house at all, as Swn y Gwnt is clearly a much loved holiday home and we enjoyed our stay.

- Susan, April 2023
Ian September 2022

“Lovely house and position.”

3rd visit with my disabled friend. It’s clean and tidy but a bit tired here and there. The hot tap in the small toilet he uses doesn’t work properly. The mattress on the double bed at the front has seen better days. But the new kitchen hob etc are great. Garden needs a tidy!! But prob be back next year!

- Ian, September 2022
Keith September 2022

“A superior beautifully located cottage.”

Spectacular views over Cardigan Bay. Cottage is spacious, comfortably furnished. Large kitchen and bathroom. Short walk to beach and town centre. Plenty of places to eat. Criccieth is a very attractive little town; we will definitely be re-booking next year.

- Keith, September 2022
Mark William June 2022

“I have to say that this is the best holiday cottage/ house we've had ever.”

Fantastic position overlooking Criccieth bay and able to see Harlech Castle from the verandah. It had all the amenities. Cleanliness and thoughtfully arranged furniture. Sleeping accommodation was excellent too. The weather was fabulous. Mark

- Mark William, June 2022
Jan April 2022

“The property is it the best position in Criccieth and the views are breathtaking….”

all around! Certainly did not want to leave at the end of our week… of course we had the added advantage of glorious weather. The house itself is tired in places.. but very homely, welcoming and comfortable. The grounds are very hilly for elderly or infirm but you have the lovely balcony to use instead! We enjoyed it so much we have booked to return this summer!

- Jan, April 2022
Ann Denise April 2022

“The house has a fabulous view of the northern part of Cardigan Bay, with views down the coast to Harlech and beyond and of course to nearby Criccieth, including the Castle.”

I also loved the views to the north and east, over the farmland dotted with sheep and their new-born lambs. There are several places in and around the house where you can admire the views. We found a walk starting at the bottom of the hill near the house, which was well signposted and which took us up some fields, with stunning views over the Porthmadog estuary and Cardigan Bay, with standing stones and 'burnt mounds' to add even more interest. Inside, the house is comfortable and spacious, with all mod cons. The house more than lived up to expectations and we had a memorable holiday. Thank you. Thanks also to Sykes for answering a couple of queries beforehand so promptly.

- Ann Denise, April 2022
Ian September 2021

“The garden is not fully secure for dogs or children as there is an open driveway.”

- Ian, September 2021
Chris August 2021

“The cottage was dated but comfy and after a day or two very relaxing.”

Only one light bulb was working in the bathroom, only one of the wall lights above the fireplace worked properly one of the bulbs in the bedside lamp in the second double room wasn't working, the cottage smelled badly of tobacco smoke, none of the automatic air freshners worked....the view and gardens are amazing though, and the kitchen is packed with everything you need...although the hob is massively annoying!!!

- Chris, August 2021
Diana July 2021

“Not dog friendly at all had to keep my dog on the lead at all times the balcony was covered in bird Pooh”

- Diana, July 2021
Kevin August 2020

“Cottage is not child freindly grass not cut so kids could not use garden bathroom not the best shower to small.”

bath that people dont use tb big needs removing. bedrooms downstairs big problem with noise veiw exelent but over priced tv never worked was sorted out after few days thanks to emma the area is lovely all around beach not to good for todlers would not use cottage again or stop in cricceith bad choice on my behalf disapointed with sykes could not move holliday or cancel without losing all my money at worst you lose deposit so i learned a leeson never pay in full ten months early which i find is disgeceful that you cant have money back minus deposit sure its breaking law its the same old story in this country wen they have had your money they dont give adam

- Kevin, August 2020
Gary July 2020

“The cottage is on the quiet outskirts of Criccieth village in an elevated position giving a fantastic view of the bay!”

The property is within a few minutes walk of the beach however there is a steep hill to contend with and I would recommend the use of a vehicle if not physically fit.

- Gary, July 2020
Elaine October 2019

“Just returned from a lovely stay in Swm Y Gwynt.”

Stunning views overlooking the sea, the house occupies a wonderful position. Everything is provided for a comfortable and relaxing holiday and we loved Criccieth and the local area. The house was beautifully presented. It would be even better to be able to access the conservatory without having to go outdoors, particularly as we did have some rain, but that didn’t spoil our stay. We hope to return.

- Elaine, October 2019
Simon September 2019

“Beautiful views, lovely holiday home, could be improved by updating the bathroom.”

- Simon, September 2019
Catherine August 2019

“Superb house and stunning views - we thoroughly enjoyed our stay and had a very happy family holiday.”

The house’s Visitor handbook needs updating - it’s not professional looking and the instructions for using the hob are very confusing. Kitchen needs better / more useful utensils (e.g for turning eggs) The towels are far too small for adults - barely covered the men! Bath sheets would be preferable. Criccieth is picturesque but not prosperous. Aside from Dylan’s and the chip shop we did not find anywhere else nice to eat meals. Local restaurant recommendations in the visitor guide would have been most welcome.

- Catherine, August 2019
Stephen August 2019

“On arrival we were greeted with a broken handle on the fridge which we had to communicate with the caretaker only to find out she was already aware that it was broken!”

! A note explaining that this was a recent issue but noted would have been nice!!! We were also greeted with a dishwasher full of dishes!!! They had been washed however we had to empty and put away all the dishes!! We also found the house to be tired and in need of modernisation! The glossy pictures show what looks to be a modern home however we found the complete opposite!!! We were generally disappointed with the quality of accommodation and the cleanliness was also questionable as we left it cleaner than we found it..!!!! The one bonus was the location and fantastic view however we wouldn’t choose to stay here again!

- Stephen, August 2019

Thank you for your comments. We value all feedback as the comfort of our guests is of the utmost importance to us and we are sorry that you did not enjoy your stay in Swn Y Gwynt. The fridge handle was replaced during your stay and the dishes in the dishwasher was a genuine oversight and for this we do apologise. We have received excellent feedback from our last three guests for comfort and cleanliness and we were disappointed you did not feel the same, but please be assured that all your comments have been taken on board. Property Owner
Pauline June 2019

“The house and views are outstanding”

- Pauline, June 2019
Paul Thacker Oct 2018

“A fantastic house in an amazing spot overlooking a picturebook seaside town and a beach within walking distance.”

Having the house in an estate location makes it really feel like a home from home. Couldn't have asked much more. The heating in the house is a bit tricky due to its layout and location of the thermostat meaning the living spaces can overheat easily at this time of year.

- Paul Thacker, Oct 2018
Kevin Skelton Oct 2018

“Excellent location, splendid upside down house with views to die for.”

No issues with the upstairs. Downstairs there are 3 good sized rooms and a nice bathroom. However, there is a very strong musty / damp smell in 2 of the bedrooms.

- Kevin Skelton, Oct 2018
Michael Farrow Oct 2018

“Excellent cottage.”

Views to die for. Everything you need,is there. Very clean. Location,location!! Would recommend.

- Michael Farrow, Oct 2018
Aug 2018

“This is a well located cottage close to the town and beach, and we loved the bedrooms being downstairs and living space upstairs so as to get the best views.”

It was clean when we arrived, although as previous reviewers have said there is a slight damp smell downstairs (we just opened windows) and we did notify the (very friendly) caretaker and agent about the broken railing on the balcony so it should now get fixed. The kitchen and bathroom are dated but functional (kids loved jacuzzi when enough water in it) but the views make up for it-it’s an amazing view over the bay. And that makes up for a lot-we’d come back here despite the niggles above-this is a house which grows on you...

- , Aug 2018
M Taylor Jul 2018

“We loved it so much we wanted to move in.”

Everything was there that we could wish for, and more. The only negatives were , one the raining on the sun deck needed welding by the landing window, the mattresses in the twin room were lumpy and the last this was that the oven temperature was inconsistent an the indicator light that shows oven is up to temperature would not go out above 170 degrees C. We managed because we brought our own temperature probe to ensure food fully cooked.

- M Taylor, Jul 2018
Anna Picton Jul 2018

“Cottage was dated and not very clean at all.”

Bedrooms smelt damp and wallpaper peeling away in one room. Garden overgrown so much so that brambles scratches car.

- Anna Picton, Jul 2018
S Fairclough May 2018

“Oh God...”

.surely heaven on earth.....my son said"best holiday cottage ever "....the views! the bath! the lovely comfy beds!....ithe enormous garden! A fantastic place to stay, so clean and bright and airy, with a lovely welcoming feel.

- S Fairclough, May 2018
Elizabeth O'donnell May 2018

“We had a number if issues with the property.”

We had too contact the housekeeper on two occasions. The first time the boiler was not switched on we were not made aware of a secret thermostat. The second time the pressure dropped and the boiler switched off completely. Also the water is switched on constant and is boiling hot. It sounds like this problem is on going as other clients have also had the same problems. The kitchen was not made ready for our arrival, the worktops had not been cleaned, the dishwasher front was also dirty. We appreciate that this is a large property to turn around, but clients deserve a certain level of cleanliness . Whilst the housekeeper is a lovely lady, she did say she has five other properties too clean. These and other issues stopped us from enjoying our stay, unfortunately we will not be returning to Swn Y Gwynt. On a positive note the views are fantastic from the property.

- Elizabeth O'donnell, May 2018
Peter Leneghan Apr 2018

“Our cottage was lovely and cosy with the most amazing views”

- Peter Leneghan, Apr 2018
Apr 2018

“We loved the views across Cardigan Bay and the fields behind.”

The conservatory is a great place to warch the birds and relax. The children loved playing in the garden and spotting lambs in the fields. We would love to return.

- , Apr 2018
Oct 2017

“This cottage is placed in a wonderful setting with an easy walk down to the beach although hilly.”

It is roomy and very well equipped. The views from the conservatory are amazing . However on entry the house smelt it had a strange odour which was not welcoming at all. The vacuum cleaner was also in need of some attention a good clean . As we used it there was an offensive smell coming from it and in the utility room . All in all these things rectified would probably irradiate the smells. The bathroom shower cubicle had a large crack in the glass and the wooden ceiling in the cubicle was mouldy and the cubicle leaks leaving the floor slippery . The jacuzzi bath didn't work. Housekeeping should also pay attention to cobwebs in several areas around the house and stains on the settee. The double beds were comfortable but the singles are horrendous as the metal frames are so loose they wobble when using them and squeak terribly with every move you make. The star value we have rated is heavily swayed by the views and situation of the house and size .

- , Oct 2017
Sep 2017

“Lovely property in a fabulous location, spotlessly clean and very well equipped.”

But was let down on little things. No kindling or matches for the fire, no spare toilet rolls, no kitchen surface cleaning sprays, no bird food as advertised, no spare bin liners, no pump action anti-bacterial soap at any of the sinks, no small shower gels etc. Just let down on simple basics for a property marketed in the price range it is, these small additions would have made all the difference.

- , Sep 2017
David James Aug 2017

“Lovely family home, perfect for exploring around the Llyn peninsula.”

- David James, Aug 2017
Gary Elsley Aug 2017

“Lovely views and great location as well as a holiday home that caters for all!”

- Gary Elsley, Aug 2017

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Summary

Three bedrooms: 2 x double, 1 x twin
family bathroom with jacuzzi bath, shower with grab rails and seat for the less mibile, loo, bidet and basin
Open plan sitting and dining area with open fire.
Bed linen and towels provided, Central Heating, Open fire, Woodburning stove, Flatscreen TV, DVD player, Dishwasher, Washing machine, Garden furniture, Balcony Furniture, BBQ area (Please provide own disposable BBQ), Off road parking
2 well behaved dogs welcome
Shops and pub 0.5 miles
Note: Not recommended for young children.

The property

Swn Y Gwynt is all about the setting!

Sweeping views across Cardigan Bay with the back drop of mountains and over to Harlech Castle.

This lovely holiday cottage is owned by a Dutch family who have refurbished it to a high standard whilst retaining the original charm. "A superbly located cottage, fantastic views, well equipped and excellent facilities nearby to keep you entertained and amused!" The house is an 'upside down' house, making the most of the spectacular sea views.

The open plan sitting room is surrounded by a balcony - open the door and bring the outside in and while away the hours watching the sun setting over the bay.Beautiful gardens surround the house where you can relax and enjoy the peace and scenery from the raised seating area.

The sea views at the front and the open fields all around make this a wonderful place to relax with friends or family.

It is so convenient as you can pop down to the beach and the town of Criccieth for a bit of hustle and bustle.

You can wander around the quirky shops, dine out in one of the restaurants - we like Tir a Mor - or have an evening pint in the pub.

Take a night off from cooking and try the fish and chips - they are excellent!

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About the location

CRICCIETH

Porthmadog 5 miles; Portmeirion 8 miles; Abersoch 15 miles.

Often described as the 'Pearl of Wales on the shores of Snowdonia’, this delightful seaside town is situated just 5 miles from Porthmadog. The town’s 13th-century castle perches majestically on a rocky outcrop, dominating the skyline and offering superb views of Tremadog Bay and the Snowdonia mountains. Watersports enthusiasts will be delighted by the two beaches, whilst walkers and bikers are spoilt for choice by the proximity of the beautiful Snowdonia National Park. Stroll along the beaches, watch porpoises playing in the surf, or relax in the various pubs, restaurants and tea rooms, sampling the famous Cadwalader’s ice cream. Further afield, attractions such as Portmeirion’s wonderful Italianate gardens, the Ffestiniog railway in Porthmadog, Harlech Castle, Caernarfon Castle and the beautiful beaches and renowned golf courses of the Llyn Peninsula are all within an easy drive.

Note: The gardens are on different levels in parts and there is a balcony with railings on the first floor from the sitting room so may not be ideal for the very young or elderly and care must be taken. The drive is fairly steep and narrow when reversing.

This property offers the following short breaks:

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“What a beautiful location, the views were to die for.”

“New decking improvements are fantastic.”

“The kitchen and living area smells of cigarette smoke.”

“Lovely spacious house The house has amazing view from the kitchen and the new balcony where the conservatory once stood.”

“Location is amazing with stunning views of the sea to the front and fields to the back.”

“Fantastic house downstairs toilet needs flush sorting and I agree with 1 camera ...”

“What a place”

“Swn y Gwynt is a lovely house in an excellent position, with fantastic views of Cardigan Bay.”

“Lovely house and position.”

“A superior beautifully located cottage.”

“I have to say that this is the best holiday cottage/ house we've had ever.”

“The property is it the best position in Criccieth and the views are breathtaking….”

“The house has a fabulous view of the northern part of Cardigan Bay, with views down the coast to Harlech and beyond and of course to nearby Criccieth, including the Castle.”

“The garden is not fully secure for dogs or children as there is an open driveway.”

“The cottage was dated but comfy and after a day or two very relaxing.”

“Not dog friendly at all had to keep my dog on the lead at all times the balcony was covered in bird Pooh”

“Cottage is not child freindly grass not cut so kids could not use garden bathroom not the best shower to small.”

“The cottage is on the quiet outskirts of Criccieth village in an elevated position giving a fantastic view of the bay!”

“Just returned from a lovely stay in Swm Y Gwynt.”

“Beautiful views, lovely holiday home, could be improved by updating the bathroom.”

“Superb house and stunning views - we thoroughly enjoyed our stay and had a very happy family holiday.”

“On arrival we were greeted with a broken handle on the fridge which we had to communicate with the caretaker only to find out she was already aware that it was broken!”

“The house and views are outstanding”

“A fantastic house in an amazing spot overlooking a picturebook seaside town and a beach within walking distance.”

“Excellent location, splendid upside down house with views to die for.”

“Excellent cottage.”

“This is a well located cottage close to the town and beach, and we loved the bedrooms being downstairs and living space upstairs so as to get the best views.”

“We loved it so much we wanted to move in.”

“Cottage was dated and not very clean at all.”

“Oh God...”

“We had a number if issues with the property.”

“Our cottage was lovely and cosy with the most amazing views”

“We loved the views across Cardigan Bay and the fields behind.”

“This cottage is placed in a wonderful setting with an easy walk down to the beach although hilly.”

“Lovely property in a fabulous location, spotlessly clean and very well equipped.”

“Lovely family home, perfect for exploring around the Llyn peninsula.”

“Lovely views and great location as well as a holiday home that caters for all!”

Summary

The property

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About the location

CRICCIETH