Leafy Hill, Porthmadog

Snowdonia. Sleeps up to 2

Beaches and Coastal PathJust beyond the village the coastal path runs along the side of the estuary offering stunning views of the Snowdonia Mountains and across to Harlech - sit on strategically placed benches to enjoy the views. There are several little sandy coves - so choose a favourite to enjoy during your stay. From here the coastal path will take you all the way to Criccieth and beyond. Or take a less taxing walk - as far as the golf links at Morfa Bychan, then back on one of the many footpaths across the headland, down to Borthygest (the bus from near the village shop in Morfa Bychan will also take you back to Borth y Gest). Eating Out in Borth y GestEnjoy refreshments, tasty light bites and delicious evening meals in the Sea View Bistro and Coffee Lounge. A convenient stop for weary walkers just off the Wales Coast Path is the popular Moorings Bistro overlooking the bay. It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Eat on the terrace during sunny weather and beside the fire on cooler days. Walking, Cycling and BirdwatchingThere are so many beautiful walks and cycle trails rich in birdlife in this area of North Wales. Not only the magnificent walks around Snowdonia, but the Llyn Coastal Path around the peninsula and the celebrated Mawddach Estuary trail as seen on the BBC's television series Countryfile. Porthmadog Activity and Riding CentreEnjoy miles of unspoiled trekking in stunning scenery on this private 250 acre site. The terrain is varied and interesting and views are breathtaking. Highlander Boat Fishing Charters, PorthmadogEnjoy exciting sea or estuary fishing trips aboard Highlander with experienced skipper and crew. Menai Strait Cruises, Caernarfon (20 miles away)Sit back, relax and enjoy breathating scenery along the picture postcard perfect Menai Strait with iconic Menai Suspension and Brittania bridges, historic Caernarfon Castle, Plas Newydd Country House and Gardens and so much more to see. Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland RailwaysThe terminus of both of these is in Porthmadog. Take the Welsh Highland Railway up to Caernarfon through the Aberglaslyn Gorge, Beddglelert and through the Mountains to Caernarfon. The Ffestiniog Railway goes in the opposite direction through the lovely wooded Maentwrog Valley onto the old slate mining town of Blaeunau Ffestiniog. Train service Aberystwyth to PwllheliEnjoy unlimited travel on Arriva Trains Wales services between and including Machynlleth, Aberystwyth and Pwllheli for one day. Valid for travel after 09:15 Monday to Friday, and all day Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays. The dramatic coastal views are a delight. Zip World and Bounce BelowIn Blaeunau Ffestiniog the old Llechwedd Caverns have a zip wire run which is the fastest in the world! Zip along at 70 mph over the old quarry, mountain and moorland - not for the faint hearted! The Bounce Below inside the mine is an all-weather subterranean experience; jump around in the massive bouncy nets all linked together by walkways and slides. PortmeirionPortmeirion is only two miles from the cottage. It is a unique Italianate village, set on a Welsh headland with gorgeous candy coloured houses perched on the hillsides, surrounded by lovely gardens and shops. There are two historic hotels, one just above the estuary and a Victorian Gothic castle on the edge of the village - enjoy lunch or dinner at either or just pop in for a coffee. The Portmeirion Hotel was a popular in the 1930's - the Duke of Windsor and Mrs. Simpson stayed and it was there that Noel Coward wrote Blithe Spirit (thought to be one of his best plays) - it still has an atmosphere of that time! The increasingly popular “Festival 6” is held in Portmeirion in early September - music with some great groups and bands plus lectures on literature and poetry. CricciethClose by is the much loved, popular resort of Criccieth with its two Blue Flag beaches separated by the small ruined castle on the hillside overlooking the bay and open to the public. Stroll along the promenade and enjoy a meal at Dylan's, the art deco restaurant right above the beach where many special event nights such as a salsa or cabaret nights are held during the summer months. The Criccieth Festival - from the 17th of June for a week - is a hugely popular and diverse celebration of the arts. Harlech CastleEnjoy a visit to Harlech Castle - open 364 days of the year. Thought to be one of "the finest examples of late 13th century and early 14th century military architecture in Europe", the castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When you have immersed yourself in the history of this remarkable building relax with refreshments on the veranda of the castle tea rooms and appreciate the stunning views. Glaslyn OspreysNear Porthmadog, this is a fantastic opportunity to see the only pair of breeding Ospreys in Wales. Enjoy watching the Ospreys through telescopes as they carry food to their young. The surrounding scenery offers some amazing views of Snowdonia and surrounding mountain ranges. Days awayWales' largest island, Anglesey, is an hour's drive away and well worth a visit. The tranquil pastoral landscape is fringed by a rugged coastline peppered with unspoiled beaches and sandy coves. There are numerous good places to eat out, boat trips, Beaumaris Castle, Plas Newydd Country House and Gardens (National Trust), galleries, horse riding and cycling opportunities, adventure activities and more. Cosy, colourful cottage for couples in a fabulous coastal location ideal for holidays at any time of the year.