We also wanted to share a heartfelt thank you from the whole Dioni team for your valued support throughout this, the strangest of years. It really has been very much appreciated.

For most of us, 2020 has brought home the importance of human connection. And whilst Facetime and Zoom are definitely better than no contact at all, they just can’t compete with catching up ‘in real life’.

As we look forward to better times in 2021, we’re raising a glass to all the dear friends and family we didn’t manage to see this year. Here’s to a more sociable year next year, and more opportunities to share precious time with those we love.

Our very best wishes,

Team Dioni

The post Nadolig Llawen / Merry Christmas… and thank you! appeared first on Dioni.

The latest guidance in Wales regarding self-catering accommodation is that you should only share accommodation with the people you live with. Our interpretation is that this means you can stay with as many people from your household as you like but this does not include extended households. The guidance can be found at https://gov.wales/coronavirus-regulations-guidance

Coronavirus Guidance – England

Coronavirus restrictions in England mean that other than for specific purposes, people will be required to stay at home until 2nd December. After the 2nd there will be a return to a regional approach. Previously Wales only accepted visitors from Tier 1 regions in England so our expectation is that this will be the case again after 2nd December. The guidance can be found at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/new-national-restrictions-from-5-november

Individual circumstances

We are happy to take bookings that comply with the current guidance. If things change after you make your booking and you are prevented from travelling, we can offer the usual options. Cancelling with a full refund, less £30 booking fee, or postponing your booking until a later date.

If your personal circumstances change, someone in your group needs to self isolate or someone not on the booking form is subject to regional restrictions, we are happy to reschedule your booking. Otherwise, if you have some individual circumstances that you would like to discuss then please get in touch.

I hope that helps. Thanks and stay well.

The post Coronavirus Questions appeared first on Dioni.

An Elegantly Informal Home In A Stunning Location | UWCH-MYNYDD

Sleeps 8 +cot | Hot Tub | Pet Friendly |WiFi | Real Fire | Nr Pub | Nr Beach

An elegantly informal home in a stunning location, Uwch-Mynydd sleeps eight with hot tub and sea views to Bardsey Island and across Cardigan Bay. This beautiful farmhouse is surrounded by rolling green hills and green fields. A fantastic position where you access the hidden coves and beaches of the peninsula and only a short drive to the pretty seaside village of Aberdaron.

Spacious Four Bedroom Holiday Accommodation On Anglesey | BRYNDEUSANT

Sleeps 10 + Cot | Hot Tub | Pet Friendly | WiFi | Real Fire

Spacious four bedroom holiday accommodation on Anglesey, Bryndeusant has panoramic views of Snowdonia. Sleeps ten with a games room and hot tub. It is located in the north-west of the island.

Holiday Cottage in Wild Snowdonia | YSGUBOR-GOCH

Sleeps 8 + Cot | Farm Stay | Nr Snowdon | WiFi | Real Fire

This beautiful barn has been converted into a very handsome holiday cottage in wild Snowdonia. A rugged farm track leads you up through a disused slate quarry and the mountains of Snowdonia to a haven of peace and tranquillity. Here a traditional welsh long barn as well as the main farmhouse nearby provides idyllic holiday accommodation for guests wanting to escape the hassle of modern life.

Spacious Three Bedroom Holiday Cottage Near Criccieth | DULWYN

Sleeps 6 + cot | Real Fire | Pet Friendly | Nr Pub | Wifi

Ideally located in a quiet rural location this spacious three bedroom holiday cottage near Criccieth is the perfect location for exploring the mountains of Snowdonia to the east as well as the beaches of the Llyn peninsula to the west. Two separate lounge areas, a modern kitchen diner and three spacious bedrooms ensure there’s plenty of room for everybody to spread out in this traditional stone built property.

Beautiful Holiday Cottage In A Remote Mountain Location | ABERGEIRW

Sleeps 6 + Cot | WiFi |Pet Friendly | Real Fire

A beautiful holiday cottage in a remote mountain location – this stunning rural retreat comes with far-reaching views over magnificent Snowdonia landscapes.

To view our lovely collection of real fire properties click here.

The post Top 5 Holiday Cottages with a Log Fire appeared first on Dioni.

There’s really only one way you’d want to be blown away on top of a mountain, and this place will not disappoint. Expect to be bowled over by the views from the summit.

Introducing Yr Eifl

Yr Eifl is essentially a series of three peaks which tower above the sea close to the Llŷn Peninsula’s rugged north coast. Yr Eifl is the highest point at 564m, but arguably it is the Tre’r Ceiri hill fort that is the highlight of this walk. More on that in a mo.

On a clear day you can expect to see as far as the Isle of Man, to the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland and over to the Cumbrian peaks of the Lake District. And you’ll get a fantastic view right down the full sweep of the beautiful Cardigan Bay too. It’s stunning.

Sometimes known as ‘The Rivals’ in English, there are certainly few places in the world that can rival Yr Eifl’s soaring, timeless views. You can completely understand why our ancient Iron Age forbears decided to settle on this summit. What a fantastic vantage point.

Of giants, Iron Age hillforts and curling stones

The middle-sized peak (485m) of the three Yr Eifl summits is called Tre’r Ceiri, which translates into English as ‘Town of the Giants’. We can’t claim to have seen any giants roaming the mountainside yet, but we can confirm that Tre’r Ceiri is one of the most spectacular Iron Age hillforts you are ever likely to see. The fort was built in around 200 BC and is still clearly preserved today.

Gan For, the smallest of the three peaks (444m) has been extensively quarried for granite. Stones from this mountain have been used to pave streets all over the UK, and as curling stones in the Olympics!

Route up

Start your walk in the Llithfaen village car park. Two of the Yr Eifl summits will dominate the view, so it should be pretty obvious which way to head for.

From the car park, head south east alongside the stone wall, keeping the wall on your right. The path climbs gently before descending again into a broad valley.

Stay on the path, heading towards the rocky outcrop of Caergribin. Once you are at Caergribin, you will be able to see the Tre’r Ceiri hillfort.

Follow the narrow path down from Caergribin in a northerly direction. Join the main path, using the stile to cross a stone wall. The path to Tre’r Ceiri will be obvious. Once you’re there enjoy the fantastic views and explore the fort! There are some informative notice boards dotted around the site which are worth reading.

To get to the summit of Yr Eifl (Garn Ganol) return to the wall and cross the stile. Turn right and follow the path which climbs alongside the wall towards the summit. Prepare for the most spectacular views! Descend southwest from the summit on a clear path to get back to your starting point.

• Distance: 7.5km
• Height: highest peak is 564m
• Time required for walk: approx. 4 hours
• Start point: Llithfaen car park

Mountain Safety

All the usual safety advice applies: never go into the mountains without the right gear. Our bare minimum recommendations would be waterproofs, spare layers, food, water, gloves, hat / sun hat (and sun cream if you are climbing in summer), map, compass, mobile phone and whistle. Make sure you check the weather before you depart, and if possible, tell someone at home which route you intend to take and what time you expect to finish. You should always thoroughly research your route so you have the best possible idea of what to expect.

Stay in near Yr Eifl

Looking for somewhere to stay nearby? Check out our selection of beautiful holiday cottages close to Yr Eifl, here.

The post Secret Mountains Series. Yr Eifl appeared first on Dioni.

What responsibility do we have to the land we are fortunate to be the custodians of during our lifetime? It is a question that the owners of three beautiful holiday cottages near Bala –Tygwair Wen, Llaethdy Wen and Tylluan Wen – have given some significant thought to.

Since Gail and Jerry relocated from Henley on Thames to this idyllic hideaway in the Arenig mountains – just to the north of Bala in North Wales – they have been rewilding – or returning to nature – seven acres of land which surrounds their home and holiday cottages.

“You can’t live in countryside like this without it becoming a fundamental part of who you are”, Gail told us, explaining their motivation. “It has a way of finding its way into your soul. 

The couple’s project has seen a transformation of land that had been eroded by years of sheep grazing – something which can, over time, have a significant impact on a landscape’s natural biodiversity.

Motivated by the desire to restore and re-establish native wild plants and creatures that had been lost, Gail and Jerry set about seeding wildflower meadows and planting copses of trees. They also excavated a 1300m² lake, and installed bird and bug boxes to encourage new visitors. 

“For any rewilding project to be successful, it has to be self-sustaining. That means we have to make sure we are encouraging creatures on every level of the food chain.”

And what a success this rewilding project has become. What had been relatively barren scrubland is now home to beautiful wildflower meadows, copses of young trees and a hilltop ‘llyn’ which teams with all sorts of life.

As well as delighting guests at their luxury holiday cottages (two of which sleep up to six guests; a third sleeps two) the rewilded land is also now home to two young tawny owls – Bill and Ben – which were rehomed from The Owls Trust in Llandudno.

The spring is marked by the return of house martins and swallows from Africa, and in the summer the lake comes alive with damsel flies, dragon flies and water beetles. It is a thriving and diverse natural community.  

“All we wanted to do is to give nature a helping hand”, says Gail. “Looking out across these magnificent hills, watching the wildlife that now flies above and walks below, seeing the ebb and flow of life as the seasons change, it is life affirming, reassuring, and completely uplifting. It simply just makes you feel exceptionally content and happy.”

Guests staying at Tygwair Wen, Llaethdy Wen and Tylluan Wen can enjoy Gail and Jerry’s re-wilded meadows and landscapes by walking and nature watching in the beautiful environment during their stay.

The post Holiday at a rewilding sanctuary in the Arenig mountains near Bala appeared first on Dioni.

You can only imagine how magnificent this castle was when it was built in the mid to late 13^th century.

Sitting atop a prominent hill just outside Llangollen, it is well worth the steep 30-minute climb from the town for spectacular 360° views of the Dee Valley below.

Built in the 1260s by a local Welsh ruler – thought to be Prince Gruffudd ap Madoc – it stood guard over what was then an important strategic trade route through the Dee Valley. It was the primary residence of the prince and his court.

But alas, the castle’s des-res status was short lived. It came a cropper of the turbulent final decades of the 13^th century – when English King Edward I (builder of Conwy and Caernarfon Castles amongst others) was relentlessly menacing the Welsh. In the 1280s, the face of an imminent English attack, Dinas Brân was burnt to the ground by its local defenders.

Dinas Brân – for the best views of the Dee Valley

Yes, there’s no denying that it’s a bit of a climb to Castell Dinas Brân. And yes, you will probably need a little sit down when you get to the top. But oh, isn’t it worth it. The views are spectacular.

Below you nestles the town of Llangollen, set against the seriously beautiful backdrop of the Berwyn hills. To the west stretches the heather-covered Llantysilio Mountain and the limestone crags of the Eglwyseg Escarpment. To the east you can just about pick out the Shropshire Plain.

The castle ruins are romantic and atmospheric. But you can’t help pity the man or woman who had to do the equivalent of the weekly shop. That’s some cart to cupboard carry.

To get to the castle summit, follow the footpath which starts near Llangollen Wharf. A fairly flat gravel path gives way to a steep grassy climb. Worth stopping (for breath) and to read the information boards on your way up.

Dinas Brân means ‘Crow’s Fortress’, and you’re likely to see a few of them as you walk. Look out for the beautiful crow sculpture on the gate at the bottom of the hill. He marks the start of the big climb ahead.

Myfanwy, muse and heartbreaker of Dinas Brân

Every castle needs a tragic love story, and Castell Dinas Brân doesn’t disappoint. Its tale of love and woe stars none other than Myfanwy, daughter of the Norman Earl of Arundel and reputedly the most beautiful woman in Powys. Trouble is, Myfanwy is vain and likes nothing better than to be told how beautiful she is. Preferably on repeat.

Many men went to Dinas Bran to court Myfanwy, but she wanted nothing to do with them. Despite their looks and wealth, they were unable to compose and sing poems that reflected the true depth and rarity of her beauty. Or so Myfanwy felt.

Only one man, Hywel ap Einion, a penniless young bard who lived in the valley below the castle, had the talent to satisfy Myfanwy. One day Hywel plucked up the courage to climb up the hill to the castle with his harp, where he sang and played for her. He fell deeply in love. He believed Myfanwy loved him back, but the truth was, she just loved his words and devotion.

Hywel’s hopes were finally dashed when a richer, more handsome and equally eloquent lover came along. Hywel was dropped like a hot rock from the castle long drop. Quickly forgotten by Myfanwy, he spent the rest of his days wandering through the local hills and forests composing sad poems to his lost love.

Far from Myfanwy’s marble towers
I pass my solitary hours
O thou shinest like the sky,
Behold thy faithful Hywel die!

Poor old Hywel.

Visiting Castell Dinas Brân

There are no restrictions for visiting the castle. There is no entry fee. Spend your cash instead on a nice lunch or other refreshments at the Corn Mill pub on your return to Llangollen. In suitable weather it’s worth sitting out on the Corn Mill’s terrace which stands on stilts over the River Dee. The Pontcysyllte aqueduct is a short drive from the town, as is the Valle Crucis Abbey. All well worth a visit on your next trip to Llangollen.

Stay near Castell Dinas Brân

Stay in a beautiful Dioni holiday cottage in this beautiful North Wales landscape. Take a look at some of our favourites here.

The post Secret Castle series. Dinas Brân. appeared first on Dioni.

Derw Offa is a splendid four-bedroomed holiday cottage which offers luxury accommodation as well as bags of space and character. It sleeps up to eight guests and two well behaved pets, and is perfect for a family break or a getaway with a group of friends.

The house dates to the 16^th century and is a former county inn. It has been lovingly restored to preserve its character and history, and exposed beams, oak floors, and oiled wooden doors give the place a lovely solid warmth. Outside, it has a large, enclosed garden, with patio, lawns and bbq areas.

Hay on Wye

You’ll find the cottage in the small village of Newchurch, around seven miles from Hay on Wye. Close to the England / Wales border, Hay is perfectly placed for exploring Herefordshire, the Wye Valley, the Black Mountains and Brecon Beacon National Park.

Hay is well known for its many bookshops, second-hand bookshops and antique shops, and for the Hay Festival which draws art and literature fans from all over the world for an annual event every spring.

As well as the many opportunities to buy books (there are around 20 book shops in the town – it really is a bibliophile’s paradise) Hay is also home to some great independent shops, including clothes, jewellery, and gift boutiques, a great little record shop and local arts and crafts galleries.

The town’s market has been trading for over 700 years. Market days are usually Thursday and Saturday, and you’ll find an assortment of treasures including delicious local produce, artisan breads and cheeses.

There is also a ruined Norman fortress, Hay Castle, to explore, and some great cafés, pubs and restaurants  to fortify yourself with delicious eat and drink.

Clawydd Offa – Offa’s Dyke

Clawydd Offa – or Offa’s Dyke Path – passes right by the front door of the cottage. Offa’s Dyke is a 177-mile man-made fortification which follows the Welsh border from Chepstow in the south to Prestatyn in the north.

It was built by the Mercian King Offa in the 8^th century and is now a spectacular walking trail. What would King Offa make of the fact that Lonely Planet now ranks it as one of the world’s greatest walking trails? We like to think he’d be pretty chuffed.

If you fancy tackling a section of Offa’s Dyke during your stay, Pandy to Hay on Wye is a favourite section of the path. The 18-mile hike starts with an early section of upland drama that takes you into the Black Mountains on the Hatterall Ridge. It’s a heart-pumping climb, but you’ll be rewarded with breath-taking views across the Brecon Beacons and the beautiful Welsh borderlands.

Action and adventure in the Wye Valley

The Wye Valley is the ideal holiday destination for anyone who loves being active in the outdoors. It is surrounded by rolling countryside, forests, mountains, rivers and valleys.

As well as very pleasant walking, this peaceful, rural part of Wales is excellent biking and horse riding country. There are dozens of off-road bridleways and quiet country lanes to explore.

The River Wye was once an important commercial waterway, and the Wye Valley remains a big draw for anyone who loves getting around on the water. There are plenty of places where you can hire canoes, kayaks and paddleboards for guided or self-guided tours, and boat tours operate up and down the river too.

All that activity should come with its rewards, and you might be pleased to know that you’ll find plenty of country pubs and nice places to eat near the cottage. Derw Offa is around three miles from the nearest pub, and seven miles to the nearest shops and restaurants at Hay. Sound like a place you’d like to explore more? Book your next staycation at Derw Offa near Hay on Wye.

The post Exploring the area around Hay on Wye appeared first on Dioni.

Almost the entire Anglesey coastline has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and it’s pretty easy to see why. The coastal landscape takes in rugged cliffs, secret coves, sheltered bays and sweeping, expansive sands. It is as varied as it is beautiful.

You’ll find plenty of shoreline treasure here, from plentiful low tide rock pools to the wild orchids that grow in marram-grass tufted dunes. And lookout for the abundant bird and wildlife that, for much of the year, makes Anglesey its home.

We love our beaches on Anglesey. These are some of our favourites.

North

Traeth Mawr, Cemaes (Little Beach)

Located on the North Anglesey Heritage Coast, the pretty harbour village of Cemaes is the most northerly village in Wales. There are two great beaches, Traeth Mawr (Big Beach) and Traeth Bach (Small Beach), each with golden sands and plenty of rock pooling opportunities. There is a slipway down to the sands, so access is pretty easy. The Anglesey Coast path runs through Cemaes, so there are plenty of good walking opportunities here too. Pack a picnic and head west for some of the most remote landscapes on the island, including the National Trust owned Nature Reserve at Cemlyn. Go east and follow the footpath for rocky cliff tops with spectacular views out to the Irish Sea.

Porth Padrig (White Lady Bay)

This secluded pebbled cove near the village of Llanbadrig is awash with Celtic legends. Park at the free car park near St Patrick’s church in Llanbadrig and follow the footpath down to the beach. You will find a beautiful crescent bay of sand and rocks framed by dramatic cliffs. There is a huge white quartzite stack in the middle of the bay. You might want to tell the kids that this “White Lady” is named after Ladi Wen, a Welsh folk legend ghost who allegedly haunts badly behaved children. The beach itself is named after St. Patrick, who is said to have crawled ashore here after being shipwrecked on Middle Mouse Island. A stone stile leads down to St Patrick’s cave at the rear of the church in Llanbadrig, and you can see Middle Mouse Island around a mile offshore.

East

Llanddona 

You’ll find this beautiful Blue Flag beach at the eastern end of Red Wharf Bay on Anglesey’s east coast. Its shallow water makes it a great beach for swimming and paddling, but look out for the sand banks and channels which mean the tide can come in deceptively fast. Brilliant for beachcombing and bird watching, and great sea fishing too. Llanddona is on the Anglesey Coastal Path and there are some lovely walks close by, including one to Penmon Priory and Holy Well which lie to the east. There is parking, with a beach café and shop nearby as well as public loos. There are seasonal dog restrictions.

Traeth Lligwy (Lligwy Beach)

You’ll find this lovely sandy beach between Moelfre and Dulas Bay on Anglesey’s east coast. Its clean golden sands make it ideal for family fun and it is popular with surfers, windsurfers and kitesurfers. Another significant draw is the lovely beach café which sells ice cream made with milk from local farms as well as delicious burgers, sandwiches and paninis. There is a good surf shop here too. There are no dog restrictions for responsible owners and ‘doggie bags’ are available from the beach café. There’s a charge for the car park, the village of Moelfre is around a 30 minute walk along the coastal path.

Red Wharf Bay

With its huge expanse of golden sand, Red Wharf Bay on Anglesey’s east coast is an ideal spot for paddling, swimming, walking and birdwatching. The beach is flanked on its eastern edge by the forests of Pentraeth – home to a sizeable red squirrel population and an Iron Age hillfort which is well worth an explore. The bay is brilliant for beachcombing, but watch out for a fast-flowing incoming tide – the sand banks and channels can be misleading. You can sip something cool or enjoy a good meal whilst soaking up the views at the excellent Ship Inn, which serves up great food and local ales.

Traeth Fedw Fawr (White Beach)

Just a few miles north of Beaumaris and close to Penmon, White Beach really is a bit of a hidden gem. It is also slightly awkward to get to, which means that it is very rarely (hmm, dare we say never?) very busy. Park at the National Trust’s Fedw Fawr site but you should bear in mind this is a very small parking area at the bottom of a very narrow lane with little room for manoeuvre. If you’d rather not take the risk of getting stuck, head for the slightly larger parking area at Glan-yr-afon, about ¾ mile away. The steps down to the beach are rather steep so take care. The wild ponies which graze the headland use these steps too, so look out for their hoofprints as you go. At the bottom of the steps you’ll find the most perfect pebbled cove which is pretty sheltered unless there is an easterly wind. The ideal spot for a romantic picnic. The water is crystal clear, but be wary of swimming as the currents can be very strong.

South

Newborough Warren and Llanddwyn Island

Ahh, Newborough. This is a truly enchanting place on the south western tip of Anglesey. Pine trees roll down to big sandy dunes and a fabulous golden beach with a stunning mountain backdrop. You can walk out to the tiny Llanddwyn Island, at the west end of the beach, at low tide. Legend has it that Llanddwyn was the 5^th century home of Dwynwen, the Welsh patron saint of lovers. Now it is home to a beautiful Celtic cross, a lighthouse, wild ponies and the most spectacular mountain views. Newborough Warren has plenty of family-friendly trails to explore on foot or by bike. Look out for its native red squirrels when you visit. There is a charge to access the car park at the warren, which does have public loos. Newborough is a Blue Flag beach which means it has seasonal dog restrictions.

West

Traeth Mawr (Aberffraw)

With a backdrop of some of the country’s finest sand dunes, this sheltered sandy beach is flanked by two headlands. Park in Aberffraw village and walk around half a mile along the sandy banks of the River Ffraw to get there. This is a beautiful rural spot with magnificent scenery and a distinct lack of crowds. At low tide you can walk to the far side of the bay, or follow the Anglesey Coastal Path north west to the Church in the Sea at Porth Cwyfan. You can walk out to the 13^th century church at low tide.

Rhosneigr

This family-friendly seaside village on Anglesey’s west coast has it all going on. Take your pick from surfing, bodyboarding, paddleboarding, kite surfing, kayaking, windsurfing, rock pooling, cycling, walking and sandcastling. Or maybe you just fancy sitting back and watching the waves roll in from the big Irish Sea. In any case, you’re unlikely to be bored on a day out here. There are around three miles of golden sands and dunes to explore, with no dog restrictions. Look out for the intriguing rock formations on the beach, and beautiful views of the Llŷn peninsula. Rhosneigr has lots of lovely cafés, restaurants and independent shops.

Porth Trecastell (Cable Bay)

This golden beach is popular with visitors and locals who love it for its relatively safe swimming and sheltered sands. You’ll find it on Anglesey’s west coast between Aberffraw and Rhosneigr. The smallish beach is backed by marram dunes and nestles between two headlands. Ideal for escaping a boisterous breeze. There’s a lovely walk around the headland to Barclodiad y Gawres, one of the UK’s most important Neolithic Burial Chambers. The descent to the beach is fairly steep, so beware if you’re a little unsteady on your feet or taking a pushchair. There’s a small car park where you’ll often find an ice cream van. Seasonal dog restrictions.

Porth Swtan (Church Bay)

You’ll find Church Bay on the peaceful and timeless north-west coast of Anglesey. This Blue Flag award-winner boasts a broad sand and pebble beach backed by high red sandstone cliffs. At the right time of year you’ll see gulls, fulmars and choughs nesting in them. When the tide is out, there are some exciting rock formations that are great fun for rock pooling and for playing hide and seek. This Blue Flag beach has excellent water quality and is popular for swimming, sailing and fishing. There’s a lovely café above the beach which sells the most amazing homemade pies and scones. It is quite a steep walk down to the beach from the car park. No dog restrictions.

Holy Island

Trearddur Bay 

Trearddur Bay is on Holy Island, a short drive over the embankment on the north west coast of Anglesey. Expect a low grassy coastline with lots of small rocky outcrops, coves and a lovely sandy bay. Trearddur is a popular place and can be busy in the summertime, but there is plenty of space to keep everyone happy. With its fantastic big-sky views out to the Irish Sea it is a popular place for sailing, surfing, canoeing and kayaking. You’re only walking distance from the town which has some nice cafés and shops. There are plenty of decent ice cream opportunities. Seasonal dog restrictions apply.

Rhoscolyn Beach

A beautiful, gently shelving beach on the southern end of Holy Island. Ideal for swimming, paddling and general sandy fun. Get there early, as there is only a small car park. On the upside, this means the beach never gets too busy. There is a lovely walk up to the old coastguard lookout, with wonderful views across the island and over to the Llŷn Peninsula. There are public loos in the car park and seasonal dog restrictions at the Silver Bay end of the beach, none at Borth Wen end.

Take a look at our holiday cottages in Anglesey

The post Explore Anglesey Series | The best beaches on the island appeared first on Dioni.

It is another show of strength from the mighty Prince Llywelyn the Great, and was built in the early 13^th century. Dolbadarn Castle sits at the tip of Llyn Padarn and would have controlled the main routeway from Caernarfon to Conwy as well as the economically important cattle pastures of the area.

If you’ve read any of our other Secret Castle blogs this may ring a bell. Llywelyn also built Dolwyddelan castle and Castell y Bere, which similarly protected strategic Snowdonia trade routes and cattle pastures.

If you have a sense of déjà vu on your first visit to Dolbadarn, that’s because you may well have seen it before. An atmospheric oil portrait of the castle by JMW Turner hangs at the Royal Academy in London.

Its beautiful mountain backdrop makes for a ruggedly romantic setting. It is a must-do visit on your next trip to North Wales.

Dolbadarn – a family drama

The stout ruins of Dolbadarn Castle perch on a small, rocky hill at the foot of the dramatic Snowdonia mountains. It’s close to Llanberis and Beddgelert, on the shores of Llyn Padarn.

Built by Llywelyn the Great in around 1230, its design was probably inspired by that of similar fortresses built by Llywelyn’s great rivals in the borderlands of the southern Marches.

After Llywelyn died in 1240, the castle played a leading role in a fairly major family bust up. Llywelyn’s grandson Llywelyn ap Gruffudd imprisoned his own brother Owain Goch at Dolbadarn, so that he could seize control of Gwynedd.

After more than 20 years, Owain was released in 1277. Presumably rather irritatingly for all concerned, English king Edward I captured Dolbadarn – and most of Wales – just six years later.

Today, you can still climb the spiral staircase of Dolbadarn’s tower, although the wooden floors have long since been plundered along with many of the castle’s stones. The timbers may have been used in the construction of Caernarfon Castle (Edward I’s rather larger fortress which he started building in 1283 – the same year he captured Dolbadarn).

From the top of the tower it is well worth pausing to take in the view that Owain Goch would have looked out at during his long years of captivity.

Visiting Dolbadarn Castle

Dolbadarn Castle is free to visit. It is a short walk from the car park at the southern end of Llyn Padarn. You need to pay to use the car park.

Stay near Dolbadarn

Stay in a beautiful Dioni holiday cottage near Llyn Padarn and Dolbadarn Castle. Take a look at some of our favourites here.

The post Secret Castle series. Dolbadarn appeared first on Dioni.

Farming is a way of life in this part of the world and – from the sheep that graze our hills to our handsome Welsh stone barns – our rural heritage has shaped our traditions and culture as well as the way our landscape looks.

A farm stay holiday cottage in North Wales is the perfect way to relax and reset your perspective on life, and a great option for families of all ages. There’s something quite wonderful about waking up to the gentle soundtrack of the natural world, perhaps the rumble of a distant tractor and – of course – a breakfast of freshly laid farm eggs.

All of our farm cottages are by their very nature at the heart of the countryside, making them the perfect base for exploring North Wales and Snowdonia. And whilst we’d definitely advise you to pack your wellies, we can promise that your holiday will be far from roughing it!

Our five-star farm stays have been carefully curated to balance an authentic rural experience with welcoming luxury and comfort. Where Old MacDonald authenticity meets the kind of accommodation you’d expect from a smart boutique hotel.

Time to get your search started – so here’s a roundup of our favourite farm stay holiday cottages in North Wales. Enjoy, and give us a shout if we can help with your search.

Luxurious Self Catering Accommodation On A Working Farm | FAELDRE

Sleeps 5 +cot | Farm Stay | WiFi | Near Beach | Near Pub

Faeldre offers some truly luxurious self catering accommodation on a working farm and only a short drive from the beach. The westernmost corner of this large and historic farmhouse has been recently renovated into a 3 bedroom holiday cottage.

Farm Holiday Cottage Near Betws Y Coed | YSGUBOR-Y-COED

Sleeps 4 + cot | Farm Stay | WiFi | Pet Friendly | Real Fire

Ysgubor-y-Coed is a traditional farm holiday cottage near Betws-y-Coed in Snowdonia, North Wales. This beautifully presented cottage is the ideal getaway for couples or families

Self Catering Barn Conversion On A Working Snowdonia Farm | Nant

Sleeps 4 (family of 4 or max. 3 adults) | Farm Stay | Hot Tub | WiFi | Near Beach | Near Pub | Real Fire

Nant, which means brook or spring in welsh and refers to the small brook that runs past this cottage, is a two bedroom self catering barn conversion in Dyffryn Ardudwy. Its difficult for me to be objective when describing Nant as its the larger of the two self catering cottages that we let out ourselves here on the farm. But I hope you’ll agree when I say they’re nicely furnished and decorated.

Holiday Cottage With Hot Tub And Sauna On a Working Farm | STABAL-DYRUS

Sleeps 8 +cot | Farm Stay | Hot Tub | WiFi | Real Fire

A traditional stone barn has been converted into a 4 bedroom holiday cottage with hot tub on a working farm near Pwllheli in North Wales. There are 5 holiday cottages on the farm altogether. All very professionally run and spotlessly clean. Guests have the added luxury of a small on site spa cabin with hot tub, sauna and treatment room.

3 Bedroom Abersoch Holiday Cottage | GRANAR-SOCH

Sleeps 6 + cot | Farm Stay | WiFi | Near Beach | Near Pub

Located on the outskirts of Abersoch on a working welsh farm, this 3 bedroom Abersoch holiday cottage is the perfect location for a traditional seaside holiday. This impressive stone building, which sleeps up to 6 people, commands spectacular views over the bay and is the perfect base from which to explore the ever popular Llyn Peninsula.

Click here for a full list of all our Farm Stay Holiday Cottages in North Wales.

The post Top 5 Farm Stay Holiday Cottages in North Wales appeared first on Dioni.