Guests say
Forestry Cottage is praised for its idyllic, peaceful woodland location, making it an excellent base for exploring Snowdonia and the surrounding area. Guests appreciate the well-equipped kitchen, reliable WiFi, and comfortable living spaces. Many highlight the tranquil setting by a stream and the abundance of wildlife. While some mention that the décor and certain facilities could benefit from updating and deeper cleaning, most guests enjoyed their stay and found the cottage to be a relaxing retreat, especially for families and nature lovers.
Several guests found the property clean and comfortable, but a notable number mentioned issues such as stained carpets, spider webs, and areas needing a deeper clean. Some also reported unpleasant odours on arrival and maintenance concerns like water stains. Overall, cleanliness is acceptable but could be improved.
The location is consistently described as peaceful, secluded, and surrounded by nature, with easy access to walks, bike rides, and local attractions. Guests loved the setting by a stream and the proximity to Bala and Snowdonia, making it a standout feature of the property.
Most guests found the cottage comfortable, with positive comments on the beds, living room, and overall cosiness. However, a few mentioned uncomfortable or worn mattresses and sofas, and suggested that a second toilet would be beneficial. Despite these points, comfort levels are generally good.
The cottage is well-equipped with modern appliances, good WiFi, and amenities for families. Some guests noted the need for updated utensils, clearer instructions for appliances, and general maintenance such as TLC for décor and garden areas. Facilities are functional but could be enhanced with some updates.
Guests appreciated thoughtful touches such as welcome baskets, bread, and milk, though it should be noted these are not guaranteed for every stay. The provision of an electric car charger and sun umbrellas was also well received, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.
About this property
Rhos-y-Gwaliau 1.5 miles. This semi-detached old forestry cottage is situated in a peaceful riverside location within the Aberhirnant Forest, 1.5 miles from the hamlet of Rhos-y-Gwaliau, and 2.2 miles from the well-known lakeside town of Bala, in the Snowdonia National Park. This Bala cottage is well-appointed throughout and provides contemporary accommodation with a cosy cottage atmosphere, making it ideal for families and friends who want to enjoy this beautiful part of Wales. The two main bedrooms have televisions and pleasant river and woodland views, whilst the modern kitchen with dining area is perfect for enjoying a meal before relaxing in front of the welcoming woodburning stove in the lovely sitting room.
This Snowdonia holiday home has easy access to scenic mountains, tranquil lakes, awe-inspiring coastlines and breathtaking rivers, perfect for walking, mountain biking and watersports. Just over two miles away is the small town of Bala, which boasts interesting shops, pubs, restaurants and the famous Bala Lake, from where you can sail, canoe and fish. Alternatively, travel on the lakeside miniature steam railway or enjoy a walk in pleasant countryside surroundings. Activities close by include the renowned National White Water Centre, golf courses and mountain bike trails, plus venture around North Wales and take trips to Llangollen, Powis and Chirk Castles, Barmouth and Harlech, with its 13th century castle.
This delightful Bala cottage is an ideal base, whatever the reason for visiting the area.
The small hamlet of Rhos-y-Gwaliau is situated in the Snowdonia National Park, 2.2 miles from the lakeside town of Bala. The bustling market town of Bala is located at the head of Llyn Tegid, the largest natural lake in Wales offering watersports, fishing, sailing, canoeing, windsurfing and whitewater rafting, and the town itself has interesting shops, inns and restaurants.
Accommodation
Three bedrooms: 1 x double with TV, 1 x twin with TV, 1 x adult bunks.
Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin and WC.
Kitchen with dining area.
Sitting room with woodburning stove.
LPG central heating with woodburning stove.
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, 3 x TVs with FreeSat, Blu-ray, WiFi.
Fuel, power and starter pack for stove included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Travel cot, highchair and stairgate on request.
Off road parking for 2 cars.
Rear grassed area and front gravelled area with furniture and BBQ.
Sorry, no pets and no smoking.
Shop, pub and Bala Lake 2.2 miles.
Note: The cottage is supplied by spring water, which has a UV filter system and is tested annually.
Reviews (26)
-
Peter
It is tucked away in a very quiet and idyllic area, far away from people, traffic and noise. There is a stream that runs alongside the property. Instead of the usual dawn chorus of bin lorries, commuters and the usual town noise, we were greeted every morning with the sounds of the stream and birdsong and nothing else. The house itself is spacious, clean, comfortable and well furnished. The kitchen had everything you would need to cook and cater and everything worked perfectly. The Wi-Fi supplied was also excellent. I was concerned that with this being so far away from everywhere, that there wouldn't be any mobile signal, but this was an unfounded concern (I know this is outside of the scope of the property). the beds are all very comfortable too. Although rural, there are lots of different activities within driving distance. There are several beaches about an hour away (and the scenery you get on that drive makes it all worth it), family activities, different walks and heritage sites. The nearest town is Bala, which is a short drive away which has supermarkets and some really nice pubs and restaurants, plus also Lake Bala which is definitely worth an explore. The only thing I could put as a negative, and this is scraping the bottom of the barrel, is that the house is at the end of a drive. If you have a large car, you may find it difficult to turn it around so would have to reverse all the way back out. We all loved our stay at Forestry Cottage, and definitely made our first family trip to North Wales truly amazing. Thank you :)
-
Kenneth
Very quiet and no sounds from the adjoining property. Centrally heated and everything important - heating, hot water etc worked ok. The log burner in the lounge made it even cosier (bring your own wood/ kindling). About one hour drive to yWyddfa and also to Arenig Fawr. Ycyfnod Cafe in yBala gets 5 *
-
Freya
The heating was effective and the bedding was clean and it has modern tvâs. However, to be honest the property felt like it needed a really good deep clean and extensive maintenance . We didnât put any food in the cupboards as they were visibly dirty. I had to buy a kitchen knife as there were no sharp knives at all (only cutlery). The carpets, blinds and paintwork are stained and there are huge cracks in the walls. Listing mentioned fire (we had to buy matches and kindling as we were just left a large log). If you want a base to visit the area this is fine but just expect a YHA youth hostel standard of accommodation.