White Roses Retreat

4.7★

2 Guests
1 Bedroom
1 Bathroom
Pets No
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Features

Hot tub
Ground floor accommodation
Ground floor bedroom
Garden / Patio
Pub/shop < 1 mile
Washing machine
Dishwasher
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

21 Customer Review(s)

Hayley
April 2025

“My review of this cottage really is a tale of 2 halves.”

Don’t be put off by my first section, it does get better. The negatives. On arrival there was about 5 lumps of old dried dog poo, that we had to navigate around on that entrance gravel!

Don’t be put off by my first section, it does get better. The negatives. On arrival there was about 5 lumps of old dried dog poo, that we had to navigate around on that entrance gravel!

- Hayley, April 2025
Sasha October 2024

“What a beautiful cottage!”

Was better than expected and beyond our expectations. The decor was so beautiful, cute and funky. Lovely colours and finishings. Hottub was one of the best we have had, water was super hot, jets really strong and various settings and lovely lights which you could change colours. Bed was very comfy. Lots of extra pillows. There was extra blankets (which we didn’t need). There was even a fan and hot water bottle in the cupboard. Literally all the extras you could think of and more. Kitchen was fab. Small but absolutely big enough. No shortage of cutlery or crockery. There was even lunch boxes which we used for our picnics. The coffee machine was amazing. It was a Sage. One of the best. Takes nesspresso pods. We took some with us but the owners even sent us some. I had so many coffees which were just delightful and such a lovely extra we didn’t expect :). Cooker and microwave were brilliant. Also the dishwasher was as great to. Hearing was very good. There were big modern radiators in ever room and the place got so cosy very quickly. Comfy sofa, again lots of pillows and blankets, foot stool, extra cosy touches. There were some books, games and DVDs, which we didn’t use but again a great extra and there if you needed. Tv was modern and big enough. Netflix to (have to use your own account) we watched films most evenings which was lovely after a long day of adventures and a relaxing dip in the tub. We don’t normally get time in our busy lives to be able to chill and relax and the evenings so it was just so nice. The shower was great, powerful and hot. LED heated mirror in the bathroom, large sink with storage. There were some toiletries there to, we didn’t really use any of our own. Again, lovely touch. The decor in the bedroom was so nice to, colourful an romantic. Plenty of storage space. Nice area by the boiler to put your shoes to and area to hang coats. There was even three dressing gowns which were a towel fabric, perfect for when using the hottub. As the radiators were so so warm when the heating was on we found out our pyjamas in there, get out the tub and put on our warm night clothes. Super lush. And location! Perfect. On our arrival a day and second day we walked from the cottage. One day we headed down the river and found some lovely waterfalls the next walk we went the other way and across the river through a forest and up the mountain. If you didn’t want to drive anywhere you could have a lovely walking holiday right from the cottage. Most of the great places to visit in north wales were all very close. Including betws y coed. The famous Yr Wyddfa (tallest peak in wales), and we also went to portmeirion. There is a small shop in the village to, and a pub which serves food on certain days and believe drinks most days. We didn’t visit but nice for us to let you know in this review. Other reviews mention damp. This is NOT the case. If it was it has been seen to. There are dehumidifiers in the property and the owners have made all efforts to prevent it. This is a very old property and it has lovely features teamed with modern quirky decor. It’s small but more than big enough for short or long stays. There are no issues in our opinion with damp or any of the amenities, fixtures and fittings. Oh and a lovely dimmer light in the living room. Cosy and romantic. Some reviews have mentioned the garden. There is a large lawn at the bottom that does need a cut, but why you would want to spend time on the lawn I don’t know. So not sure why ppl have complained about this. There is a lovely patio area. With rattan seating. I imagine in the summer we would have used this and spent time eating outside and sunbathing. The views from the property are lovely. There are cottages next door but not once did we feel like we were being overlooked. There is a good recycling system for rubbish. Bins with lables on inside so rig know where to put things. The bins outside were quite full. But this was due to bin day not occurring when we were there. And this was only paper/cardboard/glass/metal there was no food waste or anything unslightly outside and plenty of recycling/bins inside for a short stay. So not sure why I read a negative review about this either. The place is just fantastic. Value for money - well personally it was a bargain! There were no similar properties with hot tubs in good locations for this price. Shepard’s huts in people’s backyards cost more! So we really couldn’t believe how fabulous it was for the price. We even had a Welsh hamper sent to us on our stay to. The internet is also very fast and good and easy to sign on to. Highly recommend and we will 100% be coming back soon. Thank you x

- Sasha, October 2024

Sasha, thank you for your glowing review. It’s so refreshing for someone to appreciate the true value of the property and location as a whole and not find holes to pick in the little things (three toilet seats later!) . So glad you enjoyed your stay Karen Ps can this review be published please? Property Owner
Sarah August 2024

“When we first arrived, it was difficult to locate the bungalow.”

The road was very narrow, and there were vehicles parked in front preventing from seeing it. The guide was good, but a picture of the road approaching would be useful. The codes supplied for the key box and chain were both incorrect. Had to discover them ourselves. The cottage itself is very nice, as shown in the pictures. The entrance is into the small kitchen, Which is very nice. There is a Sage coffee machine, but no pods, and not knowing which pods we needed in advance meant we couldn't use it. The welcome book says there should be some provided as part of a welcome basket which was also missing. The living room is very cosy, and the window from the living room gives lovely views across the valley, You see some thing different every time you look out. However, this was spoiled as the window is dirty, and needs a good clean both inside and out. No welcome basket and no coffee pods etc which were mentioned in the welcome pack, and the welcome pack is jumbled and needs work too. The garden is a mess sorry to say, the lawn completely overgrown and unusable, and the patio has grass and weeds growing all over it (unlike the pictures). The hot tub was just amazing, in it everyday, Felt really relaxed every night The bedroom is just lovely, big, and well decorated and furnished. The bedroom is very cosy comfortable but used my own pillows, because I didn't like the ones supplied (they are quite bulky, and the mattress firm. Also, the bedroom door does not close properly. The bathroom is again nicely designed, but the toilet seat is broken and needs sorting. The shower is lovely loved using it, But again behind the glass door it's very dirty and looks like it hasn't been cleaned for a while and does not close properly. There is also No lock on bathroom door. The rubbish. The bin was full so couldn't put our rubbish in it, so had to leave it on top of the bin. You need to let people know when they stay there when the rubbish needs to be taken out and if anything is necessary like taking it down the road, and what dates. But really I just want to say I enjoyed my stay, It is a lovely bungalow Quiet, relaxing, comfortable, and lovely walks, lots of waterfalls and streams around. Definitely recommend this place. But I feel you need to get on top of cleaning and maintenance, especially in the bathroom, windows and back garden.

- Sarah, August 2024

Thank you, Sarah for your very informative feedback and your kind recommendation for others to stay. We have taken all your comments to heart and acted on all of those that could be dealt with in a positive way. So many of the very valid comments you make relate to the cleaner, NOT cleaning to the standard that we asked of him. That has been rectified as we have a now have a new cleaning team. As well as cleaning, he was supposed to let me know when supplies are low, hence – no coffee pods or welcome basket. The welcome book has been rewritten. The toilet seat has been replaced. The shower cubicle does come off its runners sometimes, we have had it repaired but still occasionally it does this, it can be lifted back on easily. The second patio has been cleared of weeds, which will undoubtedly grow back so will be attended to again in April. The grassy area below the two patios is sadly uneconomic to clear as it is very uneven ground. It looked better as a meadow (very pretty wild flowers and long grass), but since it was cut twice last year it now looks worse. We want it to return to meadow. Lastly the bins! The bin men don’t always some down as far as us so we have asked our neighbour to make sure they are put with his. We have just returned from a visit ourselves and all was well. Thank you again for such a thorough review. it was very helpful Property Owner
Rosemary July 2024

“What a lovely cottage and the hot tube and views was amazeing”

- Rosemary, July 2024

Thank you Rosemary for your very positive comments. So glad you liked it Karen Property Owner
Roy June 2024

“This cottage is much more than a Hot Tub!”

The views from the lounge and small bedroom window were fabulous! Although the wood burner is no longer in use the radiators are more than adequate to maintain a snuggly comfortable atmosphere. We really did enjoy our stay here and would not hesitate returning again some time. The quality of the decoration and the equipment is first class. Unfortunately on arrival the recycling bins were over flowing because the collections were not being taken due to (we suspect) previous occupants not grading the recycling items correctly! Sorted now with help from the very friendly neighbour! Overall an excellent relaxing week in a delightful part of Wales!

- Roy, June 2024

Thank you Roy for your comprehensive review. We have managed to get to the bottom of the overflowing recycling (it has happened once before that we know about - my daughter arrived to find the sane). On questioning our neighbour it turns out you were spot on. He put the bins out and the recycling was not taken. I have now asked the changeover team to be on the look out… I am so glad you like decor - taste is such a personal thing Regards Karen Property Owner
Catherine February 2024

“We very much enjoyed our stay at White Roses Retreat.”

It was a quiet location, out in the countryside. The bungalow is clean and well-equipped with an extremely comfy bed. We found it cosy and comfortable. We didn't get to use the hot tub due to heavy driving rain during our stay. We would recommend and hope to stay again. We would definitely recommend getting the log burner fixed and making the hot tub more sheltered.

- Catherine, February 2024

Thank you Catherine for your positive feedback. When restoring and purchasing new items we tried to think of everything that we could. we are so glad that you enjoyed your stay despite the weather Sadly the log burner is past fixing. A new burner and chimney liner are needed at a cost of about £4,500. As we are barely at break even on the lettings (leaving aside the cost of the refurbishing) it will quite a while before we can put a new burner in. The two big radiators in the lounge should make is very cosy. We did consider putting shelter over the hot tub but both our neighbor (who has lived there all his life ) and the hot tub installers strongly advised against this as the wind whipps down the valley at some force and any shelter would not stand up to the elements Property Owner
James January 2024

“Woodlouse infestation Cobwebs and an old curtain laid on floor covering seating ...”

Woodlouse infestation Cobwebs and an old curtain laid on floor covering seating area protecting new carpet a trip hazard and totally inadequate

- James, January 2024

Dear Mr Bowker It is so very disappointing and upsetting for us when a guest leaves only negative feedback, when we make so much effort to make sure that our guests have a wonderful holiday. It is not an 'old curtain' please see below. The property does seem to get more than its fair share of cobwebs and the cleaners have told me that remove then but they form in half an hour (not sure if that true or not). It is hard to keep on top of them. We visited the property on the 8th February for one of our maintenance visits and left it cobweb free. We did see a few dead woodlice behind the washing machine and have removed them too. I am not sure that I would call it an infestation but each person is entitled to their own view. We all enjoy the rural nature of holiday cottages but are not so keen to welcome the creatures that come with them. Our gorgeous Retreat is very different to the 5 year old new build we live in for most of the year. I have to let you know that what you thought was an 'old curtain' is in fact a rug sold by the company Voyage Maison. Similar to to this one in the link below@ £275. The rug had began to ruck up as often rugs do, so I have sewn down the edge onour last visit https://www.curiosityinteriors.co.uk/home-accessories-c1/rugs-c86/voyage-maison-seaweed-watercolour-rug-p4060/s19624?utm_medium=ppc&utm_term=voyage-maison-seaweed-watercolour-rug&utm_campaign=froogle&cid=GBP&glCurrency=GBP&glCountry=GB We would have preferred to have hard flooring but were advised against it, as the floor is uneven Property Owner
Andrea October 2023

“We book a hot tub get away every year.”

We prefer a quiet, scenic setting and this is exactly what we got in this charming, beautifully furnished, quaint cottage with everything you need in a secluded village. Restaurants and pubs close by with a lot of other wonderful activities to access. I loved watching the clouds constantly changing with stunning views looking from the living room window or the much welcomed hot tub! Thank you Andrea & Jack

- Andrea, October 2023

Thank you Andrea and Jack for your positive review. Its heart warming to know that all our efforts to renovate were worthwhile and that guests can enjoy the cottage as much as we do Property Owner
Richard October 2023

“Stunning well kept hottub amazing will come again thanks rich & Hazel xx”

- Richard, October 2023

Thank you Richard for the great review. It’s very pleasing to know all our renovation efforts are being appreciated Karen Property Owner
Pete September 2023

“Brilliant cottage, great location and facilities within the property.”

We had two power cuts during our stay however this was manageable (we went out and walked snowdon instead) Great place for a close couple especially while cooking. Nice hottub. The garden could do with a tidy up but still a nice view from the hottub. Be prepared for no signal in the property so the use of included WiFi was paramount. Thank you for the stay.

- Pete, September 2023
Richard July 2023

“It's the cutest little cottage, has everything you need for a wee break away!”

Garden had furniture for good weather and the hit tub was great!

- Richard, July 2023

Thank you Richard for your lovely feedback. It’s greatly appreciated Property Owner
Aurimas July 2023

“Very nice stay, everything you need there is and more, clean, bed is very comfortable.”

Just only one thing I find as problem no parking space. Area is really quite, relaxing, near river, good location. We where happy to stay and happy to come back in the future. Thank you

- Aurimas, July 2023

Thank you very much for you positive feedback. It is much appreciated Thank you also for raising the topic of parking. There is a parking place allocate exclusively to White Roses a few yards down, on the opposite side of the road - labeled for White Roses Retreat only . Did you find this parking space? I am concerned that maybe it was occupied by those that should not be there? We do keep putting a padlock on the chain that prevents others using it but the padlocks go missing!! I will look in to this issue as I don't want it to spoil other guests enjoyment of the property. Thanks again Karen Property Owner
Jane June 2023

“Really enjoyed our stay small compact everything you need for relaxing after day of walking and sight seeing hot tub bonus views amazing quiet and peaceful.”

We will definitely recommend to family and friends.we will definitely come back thank you .

- Jane, June 2023
Kerry June 2023

“Lovely cottage.”

Very Clean and has everything you need. The bathroom treats were an added bonus. The hot tub is one of the reasons we booked it and it did not disappoint after coming back from a a day of hiking. The area is very nice quiet all you can hear is sheep. So for a get away this was perfect. There is Wi-Fi at the property but no signal. Great location. Will definitely be back and have recommended already

- Kerry, June 2023
Gregory March 2023

“A very comfortable bungalow at the end of a quiet road in a sleepy Welsh village.”

We undertook lots of walks, hikes, swims and runs in the surrounding area and the hot tub made for a most welcome massage for sore muscles at the end of each day. Parking was fine, the bed and pillows were ever so comfortable and everything we needed was provided. The luxurious 'Tropic' toiletries were a special treat. Our only negative would be that the cottage was quite cluttered, albeit with attractive bits and pieces. This is particularly so in the kitchen where all of the cupboards were full and there was little space available for food storage.

- Gregory, March 2023

Thank you very much for your positive feedback. We have also taken note of your comments about the 'clutter'. It's a tough call as one persons clutter is someone else's 'essential equipment'. I have been to loads of holiday homes where there is hardly anything and that too is annoying. We are going ourselves on a maintenance visit this week and will endeavour to remove anything that is there in excess. In the kitchen there is a three tier basket for guests to put dry food in, if it wont fit in the cupboard. We hope you will visit again Karen PS. We have just returned from a maintenance visit and found the cupboards full of glasses from the dresser, so no wonder there was no space for your items. I have rearranged the cupboards again so there is room for guests shopping Property Owner
George March 2023

“White Roses Retreat (The Bungalow) is just what the doctor ordered.”

A getaway, hideaway, peace and quiet sort of place. It can be a base for walking or tourism in Wales. Being close to Betws-y-Coed and a short drive to Conway amongst other places. The cottage is a home from home where peaceful existence is the name of the game. Everything you possibly need is available for you here as long as relaxation is at the top of your list. The hot tub is the cherry on the cake. Hard to recommend a more relaxing location.

- George, March 2023

Thank you so much for your very positive review. It makes all the hard work put into the renovations, worthwhile. It is indeed a very relaxing spot. Thanks once again Property Owner
Alison September 2022

“Beautiful cottage with the best facilities.”

Hot tub a great bonus. Well designed interior with plenty of space. Slightly damp feeling though and had to turn on heating and dehumidifiers regularly to combat it. Would have been good to put the fire on but currently not working. All in all an excellent stay in a great location.

- Alison, September 2022

Thank you so much for your lovely comments. We went to war with the damp as s on as we took ownership. Every floor has a new damp proof course ( epoxy resin which is impermeable) and the walls were painted with damp proof paint but in the Winter months it feels like the potential is still there, which is why we fitted the damp extractor fan in the kitchen (it is always on and cuts in when there is damp in the air) and put in two dehumidifiers. Thank you for using them Property Owner
Greta August 2022

“Loved our stay here .”

Everything was just like advertised and more . The facilities were top notch. The hot tub was to die for. Overall we really enjoyed our self’s.

- Greta, August 2022

So pleased you liked it and had a good time Karen Property Owner
Doreen August 2022

“Fantastic place to stay.”

- Doreen, August 2022

Thank you very much for your comment Property Owner
Philippa August 2022

“Stunning bungalow, in a gorgeous little village.”

Beautiful views all around. The cottage is immaculately clean and extremely well equipped. Local pub is lovely and handy shop just a 2 minute walk away. Would strongly recommend and will definitely be returning.

- Philippa, August 2022

Thank you Philippa for your positive feedback. Most heartening Property Owner
Emily July 2022

“Charming cottage in beautiful, peaceful surroundings.”

Comfortable and spotlessly clean throughout. It had everything we needed for a really lovely holiday and the welcome package was a really nice way to start the trip. We would definitely stay again!

- Emily, July 2022

Lovely comments, Thank you Property Owner

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Summary

Single-storey
One king-size bedroom
Shower room with walk-in shower, basin and WC
Kitchen
Living/dining room.
Gas central heating
Electric oven, induction hob, combination microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, coffee maker
Smart TV with Freeview, DVD player, WiFi, selection of books, games and DVDs
Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and one set of towels inc. in rent
Dedicated parking space for 1 car approximately 50 yards away, guests can park outside the property for a short time to unload luggage
Raised patio area with table and chairs, lower garden
Sorry, no smoking and no pets
Shop and pub 0.1 miles
Note: Although the cottage is arranged on one level, there are 2 internal steps up to the bedroom and a very shallow step down into the shower room
Note: 2 adults or one adult and child over the age of 10 years
Note: The rear door to the garden has a low head height and there are steps onto the front patio and further steps down to the garden
Note: Fuel and power inc. in rent unless boiler is kept on all night

The property

This charming, single-storey property, White Roses Retreat, is located down a quiet lane in the Welsh village of Penmachno.

Just a short drive away from Betws-y-Coed and the Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, this one-bedroom bungalow makes an idyllic escape for a couple.

The cottage has been tastefully decorated to provide a lovely, homely holiday retreat and arranged all on one level means it could be suitable for those who can find stairs a little challenging.

A spacious sitting room has an intimate dining area and boasts a large picture window overlooking the garden and encompassing hillside and countryside scenery, with seating which makes for a lovely romantic evening in, after a busy day exploring.

The galley-style kitchen is a pristine space with everything you need for a self-catering stay, including an electric oven, induction hob and fridge/freezer, as well as a sophisticated coffee maker with milk frother and pods, waffle maker, and baking equipment with recipe books.

The integrated plinth heater ensures no cold feet!

The bedroom is well-appointed and has a king-size double and a large double wardrobe.

The shower room, right next to the bedroom, is contemporary with a quadrant shower cubicle, basin and WC.

The small hall way is the ideal place to hang up wet clothes and put muddy boots, ready for another day of adventures.

Outside your delightful holiday cottage is a lovely patio area extending to a garden area, both with seating, making a lovely place to sit out and enjoy your morning cuppa and in the evening is perfect for alfresco dining.

Penmachno is a pretty village with some wonderful walks on the doorstep through some lovely unspoilt countryside and forests, providing ideal opportunities to do some wildlife and birdwatching.

There is some excellent fishing and the famous Penmachno mountain bike trails are located across the valley and are hidden gems of North Wales Mountain biking.

The Eagles local pub offers a warm welcome and the small, friendly bar serves traditional ales, selected from some of the best local breweries, as well as home-cooked meals on a Friday and Saturday.

Betws-y-Coed is a short four-mile drive away, home to Eryri’s (Snowdonia) visitor centre and offers a wide range of pubs, shops and cafés as well as a splendid golf course.

For visiting thrill-seekers, enjoy a few hours at nearby Blaenau Ffestiniog, now acclaimed to be one of the adventure capitals of North Wales, home to Zip World Titan, the longest zip wire in Europe, Bounce Below and Zip Caverns, a subterranean system of trampolines and zip wires deep underground, and of course there is the famous Ffestiniog Steam Railway for something a little more relaxing.

The popular seaside town of Llandudno is within easy reach, as is the popular Surf Snowdonia, and the Cardigan Bay coastline with numerous sandy beaches are just waiting to be discovered.

White Roses Retreat provides the ideal base if you’re seeking a getaway from it all location at any time of the year.

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £150.

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About the location

PENMACHNO

Betws-y-Coed 4 miles.

The small, peaceful village of Penmachno is situated in the beautiful Machno Valley, just 4 miles from the popular town of Betws-y-Coed. Surrounded by woodland, magnificent mountains and flowing rivers, the whole area is a haven for walkers, birdwatchers, mountain bikers and climbers, whilst Betws-y-Coed itself offers a good range of shops, pubs and cafes. Here the River Conwy meets its three tributaries, creating a host of cascading waterfalls, river pools and ancient bridges throughout the surrounding countryside, the most famous of which is the magnificent waterfall at Swallow Falls, situated where the River Llugwy meets with a spectacular chasm, creating a sight not to be missed! The beautiful Conwy Falls are also well worth a visit and are situated in the Machno Valley. With all of Snowdonia to explore and North Wales' Heritage Coastlines also within easy reach, this beautiful location has plenty to offer at any time of year.

This property offers the following short breaks:

Winter
Off-season
Last minute
Christmas

Penmachno, North Wales & Snowdonia (Ref. 1084343)

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“My review of this cottage really is a tale of 2 halves.”

“What a beautiful cottage!”

“When we first arrived, it was difficult to locate the bungalow.”

“What a lovely cottage and the hot tube and views was amazeing”

“This cottage is much more than a Hot Tub!”

“We very much enjoyed our stay at White Roses Retreat.”

“Woodlouse infestation Cobwebs and an old curtain laid on floor covering seating ...”

“We book a hot tub get away every year.”

“Stunning well kept hottub amazing will come again thanks rich & Hazel xx”

“Brilliant cottage, great location and facilities within the property.”

“It's the cutest little cottage, has everything you need for a wee break away!”

“Very nice stay, everything you need there is and more, clean, bed is very comfortable.”

“Really enjoyed our stay small compact everything you need for relaxing after day of walking and sight seeing hot tub bonus views amazing quiet and peaceful.”

“Lovely cottage.”

“A very comfortable bungalow at the end of a quiet road in a sleepy Welsh village.”