Tucked away in the historic town of Harlech on the north-western coast of Wales, rests Gerlan, a historic stone-built terraced cottage dating back to the late 1800s, set in a peaceful street in the upper old town.
Built across three floors and enjoying close proximity to the glorious dune-backed 2 mile sands of Harlech beach, and situated within the rugged landscape of Snowdonia National Park, Gerlan makes an excellent base for families looking to discover the delights of North Wales.
Park up on your own off-road parking space before unloading your bags and taking in the handsome exterior of this traditional double-fronted townhouse, making your way in through the enclosed private garden.
You can use the lockable garage for storing equipment, such as bikes or kayaks.
Kick off your shoes as you step inside and enter through the dining area to the first of two snug sitting areas, traditionally decorated with exposed stonework and a wood-burning stove; here you can look forward to delving into the pages of a treasured book, or make use of a selection of Gerlan’s games, guide books and novels.
Pour yourself a glass of wine and enjoy a conversation with the designated chef at the elegant kitchen island, or watch the news or listen to the DAB radio, whilst they make use of the kitchen facilities; the range cooker with a double oven and 6-ring hob makes preparing a tasty feast for the whole family an easier task.
Gather together at the dining table to dine and enjoy the garden view, or make mealtimes an alfresco affair by venturing outside to enjoy the sunny west facing patio, or the roofed pergola which provides an alternative sheltered space.
Soak up the remarkable ever-changing views over Tremadog Bay as the sun, cloud and rain move across the sea, sinking down in the evening behind the rolling hills of the Llyn Peninsula.
Heading upstairs, you'll discover the second sitting room, which is at street level at the front of the house, where contemporary and traditional décor blend effortlessly to create a welcoming atmosphere.
Here you can look forward to snuggling up with your loved ones in front of the small but smart television, with wifi and freesat channels available for streaming or catching up on your favourite programs, or simply relax in front of the woodburning stove.
On this floor also is the first of four well-presented bedrooms, a twin room, conveniently positioned alongside the family bathroom, which is fitted with a luxurious roll-top bath, enticing you to enjoy a relaxing soak, before snuggling up under the covers.
Three additional bedrooms are located above on the first floor, with two queen sized doubles, and a bunk room for young ones, all serviced by the contemporary shower room.
There is a travel cot for a baby, a pair of detachable stair gates and a video/audio baby monitor.
A short walk from your doorstep brings you into the heart of Harlech, where you'll find a range of local amenities to assist with your self-catering needs; pick-up forgotten essentials from well-stocked convenience and deli stores, or indulge in a bite to eat at one of the many delicious eateries across the town; with traditional cafeterias, elegant bistros and a variety of takeaways to choose from, there's sure to be something to suit all tastes and budgets.
Pack up your bucket and spade and head to Harlech or Llandanwg Beach for a day of seaside fun, or if that's not your thing, test your swing with a round of golf at the famed Royal St. David's links course.
Immerse yourself in the once conflict-dominated Welsh: English history, with a tour of Harlech Castle, a Grade I-listed medieval stronghold and UNESCO designated world heritage site, towering above the rooftops of the town, overlooking the waters of the Irish Sea.
Or take in the amazing grand tour of the northern welsh castles, all cared for by CADW.
Venture north along the coast to the enchanting village of Portmeirion, where Italianate architecture sets the tone for the entire village in a truly unique setting; the subtropical forest of The Gwyllt is adorned with some of the largest trees in Britain, rare flowers and glistening hidden lakes, perfect for an escape from reality.
Or visit Plas Brondanw and its attractive garden, cafe and gallery, the family home of Portmerion’s renowned welsh architect Clough Williams-Ellis.
Lace up your walking boots and embark on an adventure through the varying landscape of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, stretching over 800 square miles of craggy peaks, rolling moorland, magical waterfalls and deep river valleys.
Avid outdoor adventurers can tackle the challenging climb to the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) to the North, the less visited Cadair Idris to the South or venture into The Rhinogs which rise behind Harlech.
There are plenty of local low level walks too, some taking in the extensive local Meirionnydd “Celtic Rainforest” oak woodlands, many designated national nature reserve and /or SSSI status.
And should it rain, (not unknown in Wales) there’s a laundry room at Gerlan with washing machine, clothes dryer and drying racks.
Take a ride on one of the many heritage narrow gauge railways, such as the Festiniogg or Welsh Highland Railway or the Talyllyn, all built to serve the slate mines of north west Wales, which has recently been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Landscape.
Harlech is also served by the Cambrian coastal mainline railway, with stunning local coastal views between Barmouth and Pwllheli.
Whisk your loved ones away on a memorable retreat to Wales with a stay at Gerlan - in quieter southern Snowdonia, it’s the perfect house for an extended family holiday.