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Glanrafon

(Ref. 931246)

Melin-y-Wig near Ruthin, North Wales & Snowdonia Show on map

4.9

Sykes rating

  • 5 Guests

  • 3 Bedrooms

  • 1 Bathroom

  • Pets No

Features

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

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • cottage (46)
  • beautiful (24)
  • everything (16)
  • location (16)
  • lovely (15)
  • all (14)

57 Customer Reviews

  • "The property was exactly as described,in a lovely quiet location, full of character and very well presented."

    The whole thing was clean throughout and well equipped. We would have no hesitation about staying again or recommending it to friends who were looking for a peaceful retreat.

    Thank you for your lovely comments. We are glad that you enjoyed the peace and quiet. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Trevor4.7Sep 2024

  • "What a cosy and unique cottage."

    Quiet and peaceful with lots of charm. It felt as if you were in someone's home rather than rented accommodation. Lots of lovely touches everywhere. Shame about the weather but that's Wales for you, nice and green and wonderful scenery. The email conversations I had with Hems were also very friendly. Thank you for the chance of stopping in such a lovely cottage.

    We are glad you enjoyed your stay at Glanrafon ; sorry that the weather was not better for you. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Maureen Anne5.0Sep 2024

  • "We had a wonderful holiday the cottage is idyllic and in a wonderful position."

    The owner is very helpful. A very relaxing break

    Thank you for your feedback ; we are glad that you had a relaxing break. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Cathryn4.7Aug 2024

  • "We had another wonderful stay at Glenrafron."

    It’s like going home! Beautiful house and grounds is perfect to rest and watch nature. We were able to take the chance to unwind and get away from it all. To top it off, we even had amazing weather which made it even better. Couldn’t ask for a better place to stay which is why we keep coming back. Would recommend if you love being close to nature and enjoy peace and quiet!

    Thank you for your kind comments. We are so glad that you had another lovely stay at Glanrafon. Hope to welcome you back soon. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Kathryn5.0Jul 2024

  • "What a beautiful and relaxing place to stay !"

    Fantastic communication with the owner(s)

    Thank you John. Hope you’ll be back. Property Owner

    Reviewed by John5.0Jun 2024

  • "Everything a holidaymaker would need was provided by the owners."

    They have thought of everything! Fabulous cottage in amazing surroundings. Hoping to return

    Thank you for your lovely comments. We would be very happy to welcome you back one day. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Fran5.0Jun 2024

  • "The cottage is most wonderful and cosy."

    I wouldn't change a thing. All the little touches, like tea and coffee and some Christmas decoration gave it that extra special feel to it. Already planning our return! Will recommend for sure!

    Thank you! We are glad that you had a lovely stay and look forward to welcoming you back to Glanrafon sometime. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Jodie5.0Dec 2023

  • "A little gem of a place set in the heart of Wales."

    Plenty to do in the local area. If you like walking and stunning scenery this is a place worth visiting. We are very much looking forward to going back. The cottage is very clean and cozy. A nice log fire for when it gets chilly. Amenities were not far away and there was a nice cuppa waiting for when we arrived.

    Thank you so much for your lovely comments. We are glad that you enjoyed the cottage and local area, and look forward to welcoming you back sometime. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Kevin5.0Nov 2023

  • "Glanrafon is a beautiful old Welsh cottage in a very tranquil location."

    It's very comfortable and well appointed. If you like nature; peaceful, quiet places; walking; being off the beaten track, you will love Glanrafon.

    Thank you for your comments - we appreciate you taking the time to leave feedback. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Susan5.0Oct 2023

  • "It is very obvious that this is much, much more than a holiday let."

    The property has a feeling of homeliness and being loved. The owner gives clear precise instructions for getting to the property,which you can choose to ignore but you will regret it! The cottage is rural so its very dark dark at night with tawny owl , barn owl and even a nightjar to be heard. Sadly when we were herre the weather was very wet otherwise more campifres and just a relaxing chat , a drink and generally chilling. The cooking facilities are excellent. though the microwave isn't digital. A word of caution for those who have a low slung sports car is that the drive may prove to difficult it is initially very steep from the road.There is also a narrow gateway to negotiate it can be done but with caution. My only negative comment, which the owner responded to immediately,was the lack of a slotted spoon, which to be fair if thats the only thing wrong in a holiday to me makes it quite outstanding !

    We’re glad you enjoyed the peace and quiet , and the bird life - sorry that the weather wasn’t better for you Property Owner

    Reviewed by Ernest5.0Sep 2023

  • "A cosy, well equipped Cottage, Bed comfy, magical sound of the Stream running past the Door."

    Had the pleasure of bumping into Melin-y-wig locals on our evening strolls who were all very friendly and full of suggestions as to places to visit. As it was our first time in Wales we were out everyday touring the beautiful surrounding area and Glanrafon was an ideal spot to return to. However, it would also make the perfect spot to just put your feet up and do nothing other than watch the activity at the Bird Table or a Squirrel demolishing the Acorn Tree. Thank you Hems and Emma for the Milk & Cake on arrival, very welcome after a long journey also the fab weather you organised for us Ha Ha.

    Thank you! We’re glad that you had a great holiday Property Owner

    Reviewed by Joanne5.0Sep 2023

  • "Beautiful cottage in a beautiful setting!"

    The cottage is very homely and has everything you could need. A truly magical place to stay! We will definitely return and have raved about our holiday so much that my friends have booked a stay for themselves next year! Owners were really lovely to deal with and couldn't of been more helpful. Highly recommend this fab holiday home that really does feel like a home from home.

    Thank you for your lovely comments. We’re so pleased that you all loved Glanrafon as much as we do and we look forward to welcoming you back sometime in the future. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Christopher5.0Aug 2023

  • "Absolutely beautiful fairytale cottage, it’s impossible to not be utterly relaxed staying here with the river outside providing a backdrop of gentle water sound and the birds all around."

    The cottage is so well equipped, well thought out and comfortable and is really well placed to access lots of wonderful places to visit all within an hours drive. We stayed with three children and mostly stayed put, walking around locally and taking advantage of the beautiful outdoor space. We had a fantastic week and will definitely be booking to return again! If you’re looking for a tranquil break away to relax this is the perfect place.

    Thank you so much. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Victoria5.0Aug 2023

  • "Wonderful week spent at this beautiful cottage in the middle of the countryside!"

    We were very lucky with the weather which definitely helps - lots of places to explore close by and further afield. We tended to go further afield as our teenagers wanted different things, therefore most of our day trips were about an hours drive away due to the remoteness of the cottage, but we knew that before we went. We’d love to come back just as an adult couple and make more use of the local countryside and the cottage itself which is very cosy and well equipped. There’s some beautiful countryside walks nearby but we only managed to touch the surface of it. Definitely a place to revisit!

    Thank you for your lovely comments. We’re glad that you all enjoyed your stay at Glanrafon and look forward to welcoming you back some time in the future. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Louise5.0Jul 2023

  • "We had another lovely stay at Glenrafon, returning after a week last year."

    Perfect for relaxing in the beautiful house and surroundings. If you like peace, quiet, nature and fresh air then this has it all. Everything there you could need. Couldn’t recommend enough to get away from it all .

    Thank you for your lovely comments - we’re glad you had a great stay. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Kathryn5.0Apr 2023

  • "Glanrafon is a truly magical place - with the stream running through the garden and birdsong all around!"

    The cottage itself couldn't have been more comfortable - with absolutely everything thought of that we might need. And daytrips out to the surrounding area of Snowdonia were breath-taking. We were so lucky to stay here.

    Thank you. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Lisa5.0Mar 2023

  • "A very beautiful and comfortable cottage in an idyllic setting."

    I would highly recommend this property if you want to get away from it all and relax. We had a great three nights there and thoroughly enjoyed it. Lots of walks and places to explore.

    Reviewed by Abbie5.0Sep 2022

  • "Absolutely beautiful location, such an idyllic and tranquil setting."

    Allowed time to unwind and enjoy the surroundings. Nature was thriving due to the isolation of the cottage. Close to wonderful villages to visit with lovely walks right by the location. The cottage has such character, was clean and extremely comfortable. Thank you for such an incredible stay Hems! Your communication has made the whole process a great experience! We will be returning!

    Reviewed by Helen5.0Jun 2022

  • "Soul food delivered right here Everything about glenrafon is full of meaning peace and tranquillity The location The house and it’s bits n bobs The fire The bird table The river The mattresses-oh those mattresses!"

    The walks! I could go on and on…… Book it-you’ll have no regrets

    Reviewed by Jemima5.0Apr 2022

  • "This little haven is one of those places that deserves to be famous, but you like the idea of having it all to yourself, a gem that only you know about, so you’re refraining from shouting about it from the rooftops."

    If you need rest and recuperation, or want to feel a bit like a fairytale character whose singing summons bluebirds to make the bed, then you really ought to book a stay at Glanrafon. We slept SO well, most likely due to the lovely walks in the day and the gentle sound of the river at night. We had a lovely trip into Ruthin and a mooch around the little shops - be sure to visit the old bank - followed by a delicious lunch at the Craft Centre (try the Rarebit!). Fish and chips from Parry’s Plaice in Corwen came highly recommended and was a highlight, before spending the evenings playing Scrabble around the fire. Utter bliss. Thank you Hems and Emma for sharing this treasure with us; we can’t wait to book again.

    Reviewed by Sophie5.0Mar 2022

  • "Lovely cottage very well equipped, perfect location, so much to do in the area."

    Reviewed by Christine4.7Oct 2021

  • "Absolutely fabulous cottage ."

    We had a very peaceful stay, everything we needed and more.

    Reviewed by Helen5.0Sep 2021

  • "We've had a fabulous week in this beautiful cottage, done so much and yet managed to relax too."

    The cottage was absolutely perfect and we didn't want for a single thing. The beds were super comfy and I'm a little jealous of that lovely range cooker!

    Reviewed by Caroline5.0Jul 2021

  • "This cottage truly is a hidden gem !"

    Rural , quiet , calming just a few things to help you forget everything and recuperate. From the sound of the stream all day long , to the sheep in the field , this cottage is just blissful ! What more do you need than the countryside on your doorstep , with the odd passer by. We read someone had mentioned that the internet wasn't up to scratch , It was fine for us with 3 children , and to be honest , who goes to a stunning cottage to sit on the internet all day?? Hems and Emma are absolutely amazing hosts , nothing is too much for them , if you need anything , they are always a phone call or email away. This cottage has everything you could possibly need , everything has been thought of that you may need for your stay. We really didn't want to leave , after being there for just a day we had already booked to come back next year , that's how amazing it is. Hopefully this review isn't as glowing as it reads so this can just be our hidden gem :) Thank you so much Hems and Emma.

    Reviewed by Neil5.0May 2021

  • "As always, Glanrafon is a beautiful relaxing place to stay Hems and Emma the owners really have got everything covered."

    You will want for nothing (except for a decent internet connection

    Reviewed by Andrew4.7Aug 2020

  • "This was our third time in this cottage and must say once again we had an amazing time here."

    The cottage is the best one I have ever been to hence we came back for the third time. If you are looking to escape from the madness of the day to day life this is perfect, you are surrounded by nature, every morning you wake up by the sound of the stream and sheep. The cottage is in a lovely secluded area and the minute you drive in and close the gate it feels so private and relaxed, surrounded by the forest and large outside area, where you can have a picnic, go on a swing or have a BBQ. It's just perfect and has everything you would think of. The owner is lovely too, we had a little issue with the shower which has been fixed within the matter of couple hours. Very professional and friendly. Would definitely recommend staying at Glanrafon.

    Reviewed by Aiste5.0Aug 2020

  • "Beautiful cottage in beautiful surrounding."

    Only issue we had was that it was not long enough as we did not want to leave. Owners were fabulous and cottage was equipped with everything you could need

    Reviewed by Louise4.7Feb 2020

  • "I really don't know where to start!"

    This cottage is just stunning! It is cosy and homely in every way! The setting is beautiful and peaceful. The owners have thought of everything to make a perfect family holiday. I can't say anymore than, you have to visit this cottage, we were all genuinely sad to leave and can't wait to go back!

    Reviewed by Kathryn5.0Dec 2019

  • "This is a lovely, very characterful little cottage in a beautiful area, with loads of things to do nearby."

    Reviewed by Helen4.4Oct 2019

  • "The second time we have stayed at this cottage."

    Perfect if it’s relaxation, peace and quiet you are seeking. The owner is very friendly and helpful too.

    Reviewed by James5.0Oct 2019

  • "Beautifully maintained cottage whose owners have thought of many little touches that add to the comfort of the stay."

    Reviewed by Emma5.0Oct 2019

  • "We have been a customer of sykes for a while now as we know we will get amazing service and quality."

    However this holiday has been beyond our expectations. It was amazing. The cottage was charming, comfortable, delightful and had everything we could ask for. We couldn't ask for more. My autistic son loved the fact that it had no one around us and loved the summer shed as he made it is own little house. He loved looking in the river for interesting stones which he thought was fossils. We loved visiting the pigs. My toddler loved feeding the birds and then watching them come to feed from inside the house . She would run back in with excitement when she has finished feeding them. The owners were amazing very helpful, caring and warm. They even contacted us during a storm to make sure we where OK. The little chocolate cake waiting for us when we arrived was a nice sight to see on your first night there, with a cup of tea very yummy. Its just the little things like this which made the holiday amazing.Would love to go again.

    Reviewed by Laura5.0Sep 2019

  • "I have fallen in love with this wonderful cottage, it’s peaceful, tranquil and beautiful with lovely walks from just outside your front door."

    All you can hear is birds, owls and the river, nothing better to wake up to. I will definitely be returning.

    Reviewed by Rachel5.0Sep 2019

  • "Peace and quiet plus idealic surroundigs and cottage perfect"

    Reviewed by Ronald5.0Sep 2019

  • "Just book, you will not be disappointed"

    Reviewed by Daniel5.0Aug 2019

  • "This beautiful cottage,full of charm, character and incantation,would be suited to any excursionist seeking physical,mental and spiritual ease and relaxation,away from noise and pollution."

    The stream which trickles infront of the dwelling gives you a sense of tranquility;it is also very therapeutic especially if you suffer from insomnia!At night,you will drop off before you know it! The owners Hems and Emma are sympathetic;they will go out of their way to help you. Buon viaggio! Mark Casey

    Reviewed by Mark5.0Jul 2019

  • "This cottage is perfect if you need to get away from it all for some serious peace and quiet."

    A lovely old cottage in a beautiful location, great walks and only the sounds of a running stream and the chirping of birds to keep you company, will definitely return.

    Reviewed by James4.7May 2019

  • "We were reaching the cottage around midnight."

    We could not find the house as it was bit confusing. We thought of calling the house owner Hems but it was too late and we did not. After five minutes yet we were searching we received text from the house owner saying “are you in” from that he guided us to the cottage. What a wonderful human being. Later I found that there is a satnav application called “WAZE” it is directing us to the correct location. When we wake up in the morning birds were chirping, sheep were bleating , cows were mooing and there is another sound which made my holiday - the babbling clean river flowing in front of the house. This river is very good for the children. Because they can play very well. The water was not very fast and it is not that deep. Highly recommended for children. We r going with luscious memories. In the hall there a lots of things which took us back to decades. Inside and outside it’s wonderful. Planning to come again soon .

    Reviewed by Sasitharan5.0May 2019

  • "This holiday cottage never fails to satisfy."

    Set in a beautiful location it is perfectly placed for those wishing to visit the sites of Wales or just chill and relax. I would recommend Glanrafon as the perfect holiday hideaway.

    Reviewed by Helen5.0Mar 2019

  • "My family had a great relaxing holiday."

    Hearing the river running in the garden is lovely and soothing. The cottage had everything we could possibly need for our break and you can tell it is loved by the owners. It felt like home for the few days we were visiting. We also enjoyed a beutiful walk along the river right outside the front door. We would highly recommend.

    Reviewed by Robert5.0Oct 2018

  • "A wonderful cottage with lots of personal bits and bobs which made it feel as if you were staying at a friends house."

    Don't come here if you want activity 24/7, but ideal if you want to fall asleep to the sound of the stream outside the front door. Ideal location to get all over North Wales. Very friendly "natives" Fast action when a problem occurred with the toilet.

    Reviewed by Ruth5.0Sep 2018

  • "Property does not have a drier, this might be a worthwhile investment given the likelihood of wet weather!"

    Otherwise a beautiful cottage, beautiful location and everything was wonderful.

    Reviewed by Matt4.7Aug 2018

  • "The family had a fabulous time at the cottage, great location by the river which the kids enjoyed playing in and safe for them to have adventures."

    Plenty of walks and picnics in the country will be visiting again.

    Reviewed by Chris4.1Aug 2018

  • "What can I say about Glanrafon cottage?"

    It is absolutely excellent, from the initial second you step foot onto the property, the sound of the river, the birds singing and the cottage itself make you feel that you could be part of a chocolate box image. Everything about Glanrafon oozes tranquility. The cottage itself it fantastic, comfortable and has absolutely everything you could ever need (apart from a mop). Even on the hottest of days the cottage remained cool and on a cold night the fire quickly warms the air. I would thoroughly recommend this cottage, you will never feel bored, you will be too busy looking over the river or taking lazy walks through the woods. Even the kids were entertained and rarely moaned (a miracle). Glanrafon is truly a magical place to stay

    Reviewed by Andrew5.0May 2018

  • "Very recommendable, warm welcome and certantly a cottage to visit again."

    Our family enjoyed the environment and the Walks in snowdonia.

    Reviewed by Wilko5.0Apr 2018

  • "Glanrafon was wonderful cottage as I expected."

    We enjoyed our time in it. It was great for relaxing and walking. I strongly recommend it for families.. thanks

    Reviewed by Sahar4.7Apr 2018

  • "A beautiful cottage with everything provided."

    Quiet location with walks and a lovely stream just outside the house. Enjoyed watching the birds feeding on the bird table and the visiting squirrel. Ideal place for a peaceful chill out with no one around bothering you. Highly recommended.

    Reviewed by Helen5.0Mar 2018

  • "Lovely place very cosy would highly recommend:)"

    Reviewed by John4.7Feb 2018

  • "Very relaxing and close to nature."

    Reviewed by Grant4.4Feb 2018

  • "Superb little cottage which was great for our family (2 adults, 2 children)."

    Beautiful location and surroundings. Would definitely recommend and visit again.

    Reviewed by Matthew5.0Aug 2017

  • "I MUST SAY THAT THIS WAS THE BEST COTTAGE WE HAVE EVER BEEN IN,SO TRANQUILL AND CALMING ."

    I HAD A GOOD FEELING ABOUT THE COTTAGE.I COULD SAY A LOT LOT MORE BUT THERE WOULD NOT BE ENOUGH GIGABYTES TO PUT IT ALL DOWN.ALL I CAN SAY IS THANK YOU.

    Reviewed by Ronald5.0Jul 2017

  • "This cottage is a little gem, an oasis from the busy world."

    but within distance of towns, country ,mountains and lakes. plenty of wild life in and around the well-kept gardens

    Reviewed by Carole5.0Jun 2017

  • "This is a beautiful place."

    Cottage well equipped, location perfect. A great place to switch off and recharge your batteries. Quiet and peaceful.

    Reviewed by Helen5.0Mar 2017

  • "A very well equipped cosy cottage, in a beautiful location"

    Reviewed by Paul5.0Feb 2017

  • "The cottage was just as we had hoped and extremely well equipped, had a fantastic break and will be re-booking soon :)"

    Reviewed by Angela5.0Oct 2016

  • "The cottage was really cosy and comfortable, the location was quiet and very relaxing."

    I would definitely return to this property for a longer holiday next time as I only stayed for 3 nights. Many thanks.

    Reviewed by Gemma4.8Sep 2016

  • "Amazing place."

    Great friendly owners. A must go to place.

    Reviewed by Karen5.0Sep 2016

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Summary

  • Three bedrooms: 1 x king-size double, 1 x twin, 1 x single
  • Ground floor bathroom with bath, shower over, basin and WC
  • Kitchen with breakfast bar (seats 3)
  • Utility
  • Sitting room with multi-fuel stove.
  • LPG central heating with multi-fuel stove
  • Electric range cooker with 5-ring gas hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, TV with FreeSat, DVD, WiFi
  • Fuel, power and starter pack for stove inc. in rent
  • Additional fuel is available to purchase locally
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Off road parking for 2 cars
  • Bike storage
  • Half an acre of meadow lawn with summerhouse, a swing, storage shed, furniture and BBQ
  • Sorry, no pets and no smoking
  • Shop 5 miles, pub 3 miles
  • Note: There is an unfenced river to the front of the property, which can be fast running in certain weather, children to be supervised
  • Note: No formal dining area inside cottage
  • Note: Low doors and narrow staircase, care to be taken
  • Note: Twin and single bedrooms accessed through double bedroom
  • Note: Driveway is narrow and steep at the entrance, with reduced turning area
  • Note: Very limited mobile service and satellite reception can occasionally be interrupted
  • Note: This property now has a £100 Good House Keeping bond

The property

This charming, stone-built, detached cottage is nestled next to the River Clwyd in the hamlet of Melin-Y-Wig, equidistant between Ruthin and Corwen in the heart of Denbighshire.

Formerly two semi-detached cottages housing workers from a long since disappeared woollen mill, Glanrafon has been sympathetically renovated by its current owner, who has enjoyed it as a family holiday home since 1963 and now wishes to share its peace and beauty with like-minded guests.

Set in a woodland glade on the banks of the babbling River Clwyd, and benefiting from the Brenig Way passing by the cottage, this is a magical spot to enjoy the peace, tranquillity and abundant wildlife in the area.

This comfortable beamed cottage provides cosy accommodation with a quirky layout, including a practical kitchen with range oven and small breakfast bar, leading through to a family bathroom, a traditional sitting room benefiting from a warming multi-fuel stove and farmhouse styling.

There are three inviting bedrooms, the master with a king-size bed providing a through room from the stairs to the twin and single bedrooms, all finished with character styling and enjoying undisturbed views from the windows.

The meadow gardens wrap around the cottage and feature a swing, a patio and private sitting areas to relax or read a good book whilst listening to the river and enjoying the sights and sounds of the countryside.

Binoculars as well as seed for the bird feeders are provided.

A wide variety of mapped walks are available from the doorstep featuring ancient woodland and drovers' paths.

The popular Llandegla bike trails and Bala with its lakeside walks and within easy access, as is Snowdonia National Park.

This delightful cottage offers an away-from-it-all location, with easy access to fantastic days out.

View on map

About the location

MELIN-Y-WIG

Corwen 8 miles; Ruthin 10 miles; Bala 14 miles.

This hamlet is set on the River Clwyd between Ruthin and Corwen in North Wales. Within a 30 minute drive is Bala’s famous lake, the largest natural lake in Wales, which is 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, and an historical Town Walk. Beautiful countryside is all around with Lake Brenig, Moel Famau Country Park and Clocaenog Forest close by. Corwen features a range of shops, walks, the River Dee and a station opened in 2010 to access the latest extension to the Llangollen Railway. Ruthin is steeped in history and offers excellent dining, shopping and outstanding views. Further afield, but still within easy touring distance, are the coast, Snowdonia National Park and historic Chester. A truly wonderful part of Wales catering for all interests.