Secure your holiday for £25.
Limited availability, could end at any time.T&Cs Apply.
Icon/Navigation/Chevron/Left Back to search

3 people have recently viewed this property

1 of 13 View Image Gallery
  • Forestry Cottage - North Wales - 905408 - photo 1
close

Forestry Cottage

(Ref. 905408)

Rhos-y-Gwaliau near Bala, North Wales & Snowdonia Show on map

4.2

Sykes rating

  • 6 Guests

  • 3 Bedrooms

  • 1 Bathroom

  • Pets No

Features

  • Off road parking
  • Open fire
  • Garden / Patio
  • Cot available
  • Highchair available
  • Washing machine
  • Dishwasher
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • (25)
  • cottage (17)
  • location (15)
  • lovely (10)
  • our (9)
  • stay (8)

25 Customer Reviews

  • "Amazing holiday I very rarely sleep more than 4 hrs a night but with the bedroom window open, sound of the stream babbling soothed me so much i slept 9hrs once, settee supported us lovely, very comfortable especially in the corner, husband kept falling asleep as it was so comfortable, loved the telly stand so jealous lol, had a scare when one night shower head fell down big bang woke us with a start, hope in didn't break?"

    , ideally placed so lots to do, grandkids loved it to, Bala was a lovely little town, but also handy for exploring more, will check my leave dates and if possible book next year, thankyou for a lovely refreshing holiday.

    Reviewed by Moira5.0Jul 2024

  • "My friends and I came here for a mini retreat."

    It was perfect. The location is amazing. The cottage has modern appliances in the kitchen. The bedrooms were simply furnished with pine beds and furniture, the bedding was spotless and smelt lovely and fresh. The double bed was very comfortable as were the pillows. Perhaps a mirror in the double bedroom would have been helpful but not a big deal. There were two outside patios but were a bit messy with overgrown plants. We didn't let it stop us from enjoying the peace and tranquillity in the garden though. We were blessed with fantastic weather and were grateful for the sun umbrellas. A plus for those with electric cars was the electric charger! The property would benefit from a freshen up outside. Would we stay again...yes.

    Reviewed by Tony3.8Jul 2024

  • "Generally the property was good."

    The sofa’s was very poor sank in when you sat on them. Also all the mattresses were very soft from long usage I really think they need changing. Otherwise was a great location and really happy with the rest of the property.

    Reviewed by Zia2.5Jul 2024

  • "Lovely quite area in forestry, with walks from the door."

    But cottage needs some TLC. Instructions for oven, grill, microwave and radio required, also better instructions for central heating thermostat. also new BBQ & tools needed.

    Reviewed by Susan J3.4Jun 2024

  • "Lovely location, lovely cottage, enjoyed our stay."

    The property itself had a very strong unpleasant smell on arrival, which lasted a couple of days. Perhaps the carpets had been washed?? Not sure. The house had a basic clean but there was a lot of spiders and webs around the house, rubbish under furniture that had not been seen and removed. The property looks like it needs some cosmetic work - it appears unloved inside. The beds were extremely uncomfortable. Hard as rock. The double bed is very unstable too. For those reasons we wouldn’t return, however we didn’t let it spoil our time there.

    Reviewed by Anna2.2Oct 2023

  • "There were a few niggles with the property and we had to give some areas a bit of a clean."

    We did notify the owners who have said they will address these, and they offered to ask the cleaning company to return but we declined this offer. The location is fantastic, the kitchen was well equipped, and the beds were comfortable.

    Reviewed by Eleanor3.1Aug 2023

  • "We really enjoyed our stay at Forestry Cottage."

    The house was in a lovely location, and had everything we needed. The bread, milk and sweets provided were really appreciated.

    Reviewed by Sarah4.7Oct 2021

  • "Great location and very nice accommodation."

    It is very comfortable and all the facilities were as expected but with the following comments. 1. Decor is outdated. 2. Utensils needs to be replaced. 3.Oven needs a good clean

    Reviewed by Rumit3.8Oct 2021

  • "I’ve booked with Sykes before for several years so I know what to expect and this holiday booking and the accomodation was everything I expected it would be !"

    The cottage is really comfortable, the living room, the beds are wonderful, the cottage has everything you need. The highlight of our holiday was definitely getting to the top of Snowdon, the best car park was found by folllowing the signs for Dolbadarn castle, it’s really close to the start of the Llanberis pass which is the easiest but also the longest route up but great if you have kids as also the safest although you still need to be careful but mainly only right at the top. We also went kayaking on lake Bala, visited the highest waterfall in the UK, it didn’t disappoint ! The road to the cottage is quite narrow but very little traffic and everyone we met was driving sensibly. Also went to the national slate museum (free entry), Conwy castle. And finally thank you Mike & Amy for the welcome gift basket, a lovely surprise!

    Reviewed by Darren4.7Aug 2021

  • "We’ve just spent a lovely relaxing week at Forestry Cottage."

    A perfect location away from the busier Bala and right next to a babbling brook. It ticked all the boxes for us as a family of 4 with 2 teenagers: Each had our own room, outside space to eat and store our bicycles, WiFi (better than at home!) but the main attraction was all about the location for us: secluded, quiet, peaceful sound of the stream and the sheep in the field, walks and bike rides from the doorstep. Other reviews have pointed out the decor is a bit tired, but it didn’t bother us- the property was clean and had all the necessary amenities for a lovely week’s stay. The only suggestion, might be a What3Words locator. The directions given by the owner were spot on and our Sainsbury’s deliver driver and us had no trouble finding the cottage. Would recommend to anyone looking for a relaxing week in the forest and in a good location for accessing other activities in the Snowdonia area.

    Reviewed by Kyla4.7Jul 2021

  • "Thank you for a lovely stay."

    The cottage was perfect in all areas. Very comfortable stay in every respect. Will definitely look to come again.

    Reviewed by Ghazala5.0Jul 2021

  • "Nice quiet location but more like 3."

    5 miles to Bala high street. House little tired in places but we enjoyed our stay there. Picture of View over the fence must be quite old as the trees are now taller than the house and block the view.

    Reviewed by Robert3.8Jun 2021

  • "Not very clean things like oven tray full of fat and bits of food Great location"

    Reviewed by Gordon3.4Jun 2021

  • "Having been brought up in a similar forestry house in North Wales it was a very pleasant trip down memory lane."

    The cottage is in an idyllic location surrounded by trees and a stream running down adjacent to the property. We walked for miles along forest roads and saw an array of wildlife. One of the most memorable moment was watching a woodpecker fledge, what a beautiful sight. The house requires some TLC. Removing the ugly water damage stains from the ceiling and fixing the catches on the internal doors would benefit future occupants. Sitting on the loo when the bathroom door opens on its own is rather stressful. Would we go back - yes definitely - we had a fantastic holiday - thanks Mike and Amy.

    Reviewed by Christine3.8Jun 2021

  • "The cottage was pretty much as expected."

    The only things to pick fault with were some decorative imperfections on the ceilings, possibly damp and we had no way of lighting the log burner which we wanted to use.

    Reviewed by Daniel4.4May 2021

  • "The cottage itself was everything we expected and more and also the hosts were extremely attentive and helpful BUT we are Very disappointed with Sykes’ management given the Welsh lockdown - we nearly got locked down there and also the Sykes representative who I spoke to on the last day of holiday was not at all helpful and very rude also."

    Reviewed by Ana-maria5.0Oct 2020

  • "This is brilliantly family friendly cottage, in an excellent location."

    We thoroughly enjoyed our stay!

    Reviewed by Ellie4.7Aug 2020

  • "Forestry cottage is in a wonderfully quiet location with walks from the doorstep but only a short drive from Bala."

    It is extremely well equipped with excellent WiFi. Wish we could have stayed longer.

    Reviewed by Eleanor5.0Aug 2020

  • "Beautiful house well looked after, and in a stunning location."

    All the family loved our 6 night break.

    Reviewed by Robert5.0Dec 2019

  • "We were disappointed because we expected the cottage to be as it was when we were there last, but unfortunately the cottage is looking a little tired and could do with a lick of paint on the inside and a good clean and tidy up outside especially the outbuildings and the garden furniture could do with a clean and re-varnish."

    Reviewed by Amanda4.4Jun 2019

  • "We requested a stair gate but it was fitted at the top of the stairs - we needed it at the bottom to stop little one going upstairs - the general standard of cleaning was very poor - there was what looked like mouse droppings in the kitchen cupboard & inside a cooking dish (we have taken photos)."

    In the bunk bedroom there were hairs & some stains on the pillowcase & sheet & a pair of someone’s socks actually in the bed! We feel we overpaid for what we got. It is not toddler friendly. The property is in a lovely location but we left a day early. With the problem of no fresh running water we did not have a pleasant experience

    Reviewed by Cathie2.5May 2019

  • "Loved the area, loved the cottage - all brilliant"

    Reviewed by Jo4.7Apr 2019

  • "A second toilet would really benefit this cottage."

    However, we still had a brilliant time and it would not stop me going again.

    Reviewed by Audrey4.4Sep 2018

  • "Just got back from our week away and we really didn't want to leave."

    The cottage was fantastic and situated in a stunning location. Really thankful to Mike and Amy and hope to book up again many more times in the future.

    Reviewed by Darren5.0Jun 2018

  • "This is our second stay in this lovely cottage situated in a secluded setting in the woods."

    I would certainly like to book again!

    Reviewed by Andrew5.0Jul 2017

Show more Hide all

Summary

  • 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 inc. in rent
  • Bed linen and towels inc. 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.

The 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.

View on map

About the location

RHOS-Y-GWALIAU

Bala 2.2 miles.

Rhos-y-Gwaliau is a small rural hamlet situated in stunning countryside on the eastern side of the Snowdonia National Park, just over two miles from the lakeside town of Bala. The bustling market town of Bala is located at the head of Llyn Tegid, Bala’s famous lake, which is the largest natural lake in Wales and home to a unique fish called the Gwyniad, a relic of the Ice Age. Renowned as a centre for great watersports, including fishing, sailing, canoeing, windsurfing and whitewater rafting, Bala is also the headquarters of the narrow gauge Bala Lake Railway. The town itself is steeped in history and has a range of interesting shops, inns and restaurants, as well as an historical town walk. Surrounded by the wonderful Berwyn Mountains on one side and the beautiful Snowdonia Mountain Range on the other, this is a mecca for climbing, walking, mountain biking and many other outdoor activities. An ideal location for touring all of North and Mid Wales, including the stunning Cambrian Bay Coast with the six-mile long Harlech beach, overlooked by its majestic medieval castle. An excellent base for exploring the area.

This property offers the following short breaks:

  • Winter
  • Off-season
  • Last minute
  • Christmas