Ty Glan Afon, Dolgellau

Gwynedd. Sleeps up to 6

Mawddach Estuary and Cadair IdrisThe countryside here is simply sublime - walk from the cottage into another world. The old drovers' road takes you along the ridge overlooking the fjord like Mawddach Estuary with views down to the sea and across to Cadair Idris (one of Wales' most beautiful mountains) - featured recently on BBC Countryfile. The drovers' road, once the coaching road to Barmouth, has ruins of old hostelries where travellers stopped to rest and even the remains of an old jail where marauding bandits were locked up!The Mawddach Estuary is skirted by the old railway track which is now a popular walking and cycle path - refreshments at the George III Hotel overlooking the estuary are recommended. Coed y Brenin Forest, Talyllyn Lake near Welsh holiday cottageCoed y Brenin Forest is wonderful for cyclists and walkers with its world class purpose built mountain biking tracks, a restaurant and paths throughout the forest. Talyllyn Lake and RailwayTalyllyn Lake with its wooden walkways and picnic areas, is sure to delight walkers with its spectacular scenery. Enjoy a trip around the picturesque lake on board a nostalgic narrow gauge steam train. Harlech CastleHarlech Castle was built in the 13th C by Edward I as part of his 'Iron Ring' intended to dominate the Welsh. The castle is in a remarkable state of preservation and classed as a World Heritage Site. Barmouth and FairbourneBarmouth, a traditional family seaside resort, is 5 miles away from this Welsh cottage with miles of unbroken golden sands, donkey rides and fun fairs. Fairbourne has a 2 mile stretch of safe golden sands with rock pools at either end. The Fairbourne and Barmouth Steam Railway runs through the village and along the sea front - the terminus is next to the main line railway station - catch a train to Penryhyn Point, take the ferry across to Barmouth and return on foot across the Barmouth Bridge (or by British Rail!)Centre of Alternative TechnologyEven dull days can be interesting - visit the Centre of Alternative Technology a pioneer in environmental matters and children will love the spooky underworld adventure on offer at King Arthur's Labyrinth. Golf Clubs - Aberdovey and HarlechDolgellau Golf Club with its dramatic mountain backdrop is perhaps one of the most beautiful in Wales overlooked by Cadair Idris - beginners are welcome. Also within an easy drive are the championship golf courses of The Royal St. Davids at Harlech and Aberdovey Golf Course. Dyfi Osprey Project, near MachynllethGet up close and personal with a magnificent pair of breeding Ospreys Monty and Glesni based at Cors Dyfi Reserve. A nestcam broadcasts fascinating live streaming during the breeding season. PortmeirionDesigned and built by by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis this picturesque Italianate village on its own private and beautiful peninsula is well worth a visit. There are formal gardens, riverside and woodland walks as well as a variety of interesting shops. Corris Craft CentreShopaholics will love the Corris Craft Centre where 6 crafts folk hand make and sell a selection of Welsh gifts including patchwork, quilting, glass, gift ware, rustic furniture, cards, candles, jewellery, leather goods, wooden toys and pottery. Sherpa Bus Service, SnowdoniaLeave your car at home and enjoy scenic bus journeys into Snowdonia. Buy your ticket on the bus and hop on and off all day as much as you like. Coed y Brenin ForestOne of Europe's premier cycling experiences, the Forestry Commission's mountain bike mecca home to an ever increasing network of hand built trails and dual slalom course. There are trails suitable for families, novices and the experienced. Bikes can be hired and there is a shop and a cafe. Welsh Highland Railway, PorthmadogA journey through the spectacularly scenic Snowdonia aboard this heritage train is not to be missed. The train will stop at the sheds on route for enthusiasts to climb aboard the engines. National Centre for Welsh Folk Music, DolgellauThis award winning visitor attraction houses an interactive display of musical instruments, a cafe/bar, shop and auditorium. Cyril Jones' Antiques, DolgellauDo explore the small antiques shop next door to the National Centre for Welsh Folk Music in Dolgellau specialising in Welsh Oak furniture and clocks. Days awayHead south into Ceredigion and the dolphin coast. The vibrant university town of Aberystwyth (1 hour drive away) sits on Cardigan Bay. Walk along the elegant seafront where a murmuration of starlings have taken up residence under the pier. Browse interesting independent shops. Take a ride on the cliff railway. Explore the castle ruins and eat out in any one of the town's eclectic selection of cafes, bars and restaurants. A nostalgic steam train ride leaves from here on a scenic journey through the beautiful Rheidol Valley to Devil's Bridge and back. Enjoy fulfilling Welsh holidays all year round in this characterful cottage in North Wales.

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