Bryn Ystrad Llyn in Porthmadog

Experience the magic of Snowdonia National Park, with a stay in this rural two-storey cottage, 5 miles from the pretty harbour town of Porthmadog. The ruins of the impressive 19th-century Ynysypandy slate-slab mill are within sight and can be reached in 160 metres, while a lakeside tea room is just under a mile inland from the property. Drive or cycle a little over 4 miles to the coast and the Criccieth beaches, separated by a headland and medieval castle – you’ll find the shallow, sheltered shores of the eastern sands are conducive to wild swimming and paddling. Just over 4 miles away is Porthmadog, with shops, supermarkets, cafes, an ice cream parlour and the Black Rock Sands, which stretch from the headland of Black Rock to the Glaslyn estuary. Take a trip out to the Italian village and gardens of Portmeirion (8 miles) and treat the kids to a day at Zip World and Bounce Below in Blaenau Ffestiniog (16 miles).

Views of Welsh mountain sheep grazing nearby are beautifully framed by sizeable windows and patio doors in the lounge. This welcoming space has a wood burner framed by an impressive floor-to-ceiling traditional stone fireplace, sofas, armchairs, a TV and games for family-friendly fun, whatever the weather. Gather together around a handsome dining table in the dual-aspect kitchen; with long wooden pew seating and farmhouse-style chairs, there’s ample space for the whole group to linger over a hearty meal. An accessible bedroom with twin beds (one of which can be a profiling bed if required), has French doors opening onto the patio, as well as an en-suite shower room with non-slip flooring and grab handles. A further twin and two king-sized bedrooms – all with gorgeous views – are on the first floor, along with the pretty family bathroom.

The lawned garden is furnished with two picnic tables and a BBQ, enclosed by a low rustic stone wall and paddock-style wood fencing. As the cottage is set in an area with International Dark Sky Reserve status, this is a prime spot to see the constellations by night – binoculars are provided to admire the far-reaching views and for stargazing.