Craflwyn Hall, Caernarfon

Gwynedd. Sleeps up to 16

A rural gathering house in the heart of Snowdonia.

Craflwyn Hall, built on the Craflwyn Estate in the 1870s, is set in 200 acres of dramatic valley scenery. It’s a large traditional house, full of Victorian character and charm, with space for family and friends to gather on the lawn, round the table, in the bar or by an open fire. The Hall backs onto woodland criss-crossed with footpaths, and animals often graze in the field opposite.

Downstairs, you’ll find many intriguing rooms leading off the spacious entrance hall including a piano parlour, library, small lounge, bar and conservatory. All the essential rooms are there too, such as a generous living and dining room, a kitchen, three individual WCs and a utility room. By the back door there’s a dog shower, as well as a drying room for storing all the gear needed for a holiday of countryside adventures. Upstairs there are eight bedrooms, most of which are ensuite, plus a family bathroom. There’s also a large gallery landing with lots of natural light and perfectly-placed reading chairs. Alongside contemporary comforts, Craflwyn has lots of original features including arts and crafts fireplaces, stained glass, wood and quarry tile floors, and traditional Victorian furniture.

All rooms have wonderful views of the mountains and the surrounding landscape. Many of the downstairs rooms open onto the extensive lawns, and you’ll find benches dotted around the gardens. There’s plenty of space for outdoor games. The conservatory opens onto a covered veranda, with room for all sixteen guests to sit and relax together.

Beddgelert village is less than a mile away, and another short walk leads to Dinas Emrys. This hill is famous as the site of a legendary battle between two dragons, one white and one red, perhaps the best known of the myths that abound in this area. There are many trails to follow in Craflwyn and Beddgelert, passing waterfalls, lakes, wild heath and wooded valleys, and a path leading to Snowdon’s summit from the next village, Nant Gwynant.