Penlan Snowdonia, Gwynedd

Brilliant location and suitably peaceful with beautiful views to the mountains, whilst being just a few minutes walk into Beddgelert centre via a lane, across the bridge and along the river. The cottage is well furnished and had everything needed for our stay and for Rupert fans ...what a bonus to be in the place where the writer and illustrator once lived. It really was a delight to sit on the terrace in the evening and breakfast if weather allows....for those wanting a break to be in tranquil and inspiring surroundings and also conveniently located to Welsh Highland railway, Snowdon, Llyn peninsula and Anglesey then this place is highly recommended. This was our first visit....definitely not our last!

We have stayed in Beddgelert many times and this cottage is in a prime location, ideal for us and our dog. It had everything we needed but unfortunately we had no hot water for two of our three nights there. This was an issue as my wife finds that a bath eases her fibromyalgia, there was a working shower but all the hot taps were stone cold. The information book said to contact the caretaker which we did, but we were disappointed to be told nothing would be done until the Monday, this was no good to us as that was our day to go home. We had no explanation as to why nothing could be done sooner, yes it was a weekend but surely lots of people stay at weekends so maybe something should have been in place. The caretaker lives locally yet asked us to check the consumer unit ourselves, considering this was our first break this year having worked all through lockdown we thought this situation wasn’t really acceptable. We also spoke to the owner who was very apologetic and clearly this was not his fault, these things happen. If it wasn’t for the water issue and no explanation from the caretaker this would be a 5 star review as the cottage itself is lovely.

Very good value cottage in a delightful village. The cottage is small but was fine for myself, husband and 2 teenage children. It had everything we needed for our week holiday. It was very close for an evening walk into the village but felt secluded. The walks and scenery from the door of the cottage are breathtaking and we would like to return and explore more in the future. Penlan offers a good value base for doing this.

My mother-in-law booked a week at this beautiful and nostalgic cottage in the heart of Snowdonia last November (2018), inviting my partner and I to stay too. It was a very special Christmas gift to the both of us – particularly myself - having loved Rupert The Bear dearly during my formative years. I was instantly taken with 'Penlan' on arrival. The owners clearly take great pride in its heritage - and inside you will find an assortment of Mr Albert Bestall’s (Rupert's creator) personal possessions, with multiple Rupert art pieces adorning the walls. The cottage comes equipped with a traditional and hearty fireplace; (which we found especially pleasant in November) however, the lodging itself is quite warm nonetheless. The cottage is cosy and quaint, with two bedrooms (one double and a bunk bed in the second). My partner and I shared the room with the bunk bed - and I have to say I think this was particularly special. One of the windows in this room looks out from the side of the cottage, and from it you can immediately espy a bonny tree – a view I had already seen an innumerate amount of times within Rupert books! In addition, the bathroom and kitchen facilities provided everything necessary for a pleasant and comfortable stay – all was clean and tidy, with a well-equipped kitchen. Furthermore, ‘Penlan’ is situated perfectly - with the most astonishing backdrop - and it is not difficult to understand why it was so beloved of Mr Bestall. On our first morning when we opened the front door, the view really did take my breath away. I sat on the front step and looked around at the mountains and hills towering over the lovely and idyllic town of Beddgelert, finding myself simply lost for words. Despite the time of year the skies were clear with sunshine, so we decided to spend the morning trekking up a mountain path which leads directly up from the cottage. There are seemingly few places left that encapsulate the beautiful countryside of old in this country – but this is certainly one that still does. After our trek we wandered into Beddgelert and pottered about in some of the shops, before finally relaxing in a local pub. Needless to say we found all the local folk very friendly and talkative. What's more, the village itself is well situated – only approximately 30-minutes (by car) away from Portmeirion or Caernarfon Castle in opposite directions – so there is plenty to do in the region if visiting. In summary, it really was a truly remarkable and magical trip - which brought back my childhood in a decidedly wonderful way. I have to say I think it is an especially commendable decision by Mr Bestall’s family to allow guests a chance to stay at Penlan – and whether for nostalgia or just scenic appreciation, (with a comfortable abode) I would absolutely recommend the cottage to anyone! Thank you for a brilliant few days!

This is a lovely little cottage with its nostalgic history of Rupert Bear. Yes it has some remnants of the Illustrators pictures and models and paints in cupboards inside. Great views and plenty of walks around Beddgelert. Nice village with a variety of catering means with or without dogs. Its a place really for good weather-maybe a personal choice for us. As for the cottage itself its fine for a 2+2 but not a 2+3. The TV is a new installation a 32 inch Toshiba so the old small TV has now been removed. The DVD player is antique and the DVDs supplied are non-functional-badly scratched so bring your own. But the DVD player needs upgrading. The main double bed is as mentioned by previous visitors in need of a new one. Its difficult to sleep on even for two people. Kitchen and Bathroom are Ok relatively newish although the black LEC fridge freezer is in dire need of a defrost before it explodes with ice! Parking is Ok with one space but make sure you back up onto the drive area so its easier to leave as the adjacent neighbour is old and has carers coming in frequently who may block your exit. An ironing board would be nice. The front and back gradens are rough and severly inclined not good for young children to play on.

Amazing location, stunning views all around, locals were very welcoming and knowledgable and the walks around the cottage were breathtaking..

The best thing about Penlan cottage is its location and that is truly beautiful.. We had a wonderful time in this incredible landscape. A couple of tweaks to the cottage would have made the week really special. Although we knew there would be no wifi or phone coverage, we found this was more of a disadvantage than we had anticipated. In winter months when local venues often vary their opening times, it was very difficult to find out accurate information. We would happily have paid a little more to have this facility. I was disappointed to find that the stove equipment in the photographs is no more than a flame-effect unit which does not provide heat. In fact the cottage is heated by three storage units which aren't robust enough for most people's needs. I can't describe the cottage as cosy. The patio had been fenced off so that it was not possible to gain access to it. It would be a lovely place to pause. There were no house notes available nor anything to welcome us on arrival. These things are not make or break but their absence contributed to a general sense of apathy towards the guests - a shame in a cottage with such potential.

Out third visit & it was very enjoyable.. The heating & fencing still need improving though! Very clean & well prepared, however.

We were delighted to be staying in our childhood favourite Rupert The Bear's enchanted cottage in such beautiful countryside.. The cottage itself is fairly basic but cosy, clean and full of the spirit of Rupert's creator and illustrator Alfred Berstall. It is also ideally placed for many wonderful North Wales attractions. We had a magical time there and would return again.

Lovely cottage.. Fantastic location.

This is a lovely cottage, the perfect size for our family of 4.. We like to walk, hike, kayak and swim, and this location is perfect for all of these. The cottage has all the facilities we needed, it was especially useful to have a washing machine. This is our second time staying in Penlan and we do not usually go to the same location more than once, so that is probably the best recommendation of all!

Penlan is a lovely cottage.. Just a few minor things would make it perfect. A new mattress on the bottom bunk as the springs can be felt. A clothes horse to dry clothes indoors after using the washing machine as it’s not always possible to hang them outside. An iron. WiFi connection in the cottage as no phone signal. Bottom branch of tree pruned as gets caught in car tailgate. In spite of these niggles we had a wonderful holiday in the most beautiful surroundings. Would recommend future visitors to sit outside on a clear night and look at the stars. What an awesome sight. Now looking forward to next year. God willing!

There were no towels at the property.. It was difficult to contact the number as there is no signal for mobile phones and no Wi-fi in the cottage. I had to use a phone box. I was then told no towels are provided. I was not informed of this beforehand and for two hundred pounds a night is incredible. We then had to travel to find towels to purchase instead of enjoying the holiday. The cottage should provide Wi-fi or at least this information should be published before booking. The bed was of poor quality- for the price it should be a good quality bed. The garden was a wasteland covered in mown long grass, probably cut for the first time this year, with no flowers at all. The cottage itself is lovely and is in a beautiful location and it is a shame that the owners put in zero effort to made it welcoming.

JUST CAME BACK FROM A LOVELY HOLIDAY AT PENLAN, FROM 3rd to 10th MARCH 2018.. WHAT A LOVELY QUAINT COTTAGE, EVERYTHING WE NEEDED FOR OUR STAY, WELL EQUIPED KITCHEN ELECTRIC HOB / OVEN, MICROWAVE, GOOD SIZE FRIDGE FREEZER, AND COSY LIVING ROOM WITH A NICE VIEW OF THE MOUNTAINS. BEDROOM IS VERY NICE ALSO WITH A GOOD VIEW OF THE MOUNTAINS. BACK OF THE PROPERTY IS SECLUDED GARDEN WITH ONLY A ROCKFACE THERE, SO NO ONE PASSING OR LOOKING IN, AS WE BOOKED FOR THE WEEK DURING THE BAD WEATHER OF THE BEAST FROM THE EAST, TRAVELLING FROM THE WEST MIDLANDS WAS UNSURE WE'D GET THERE, NO PROBLEMS AND ALL ROADS WERE CLEAR TAKING THE A5 ROUTE, HOWEVER THE COTTAGE AS A PRIVATE DRIVE ONLY FOR 1 CAR ON A STEEP BANK,LEVELS OUT AT TOP DON'T PANIC , THIS WAS THE ONLY PLACE I HAD TO DIG OUT THE SNOW & ICE TO GET CAR UP, BE PREPARED TO REVERSE DOWN THE STEEP DRIVE AS THE NEIGHBOURING COTTAGE ALSO PARK UP THERE AND NO ROOM FOR TURNING ROUND WHEN THERE'S ANOTHER CAR THERE. BUT THERE IS A SMALL CLEARING AT BOTTOM OF DRIVE TO LEAVE CAR OR ANOTHER CAN BE SEEN FROM COTTAGE. COTTAGE IS HEATED USING STORAGE HEATERS, THE ONLY ONE THAT SEEM'S TO WORK EFFECTIVLY IS THE FRONT BEDROOM, OTHERS ARE NOT SO GOOD, THERE'S IS ALSO A DIMPLEX ELECTRIC STOVE 2KW FAN HEATER THAT AS A MIND OF IT'S OWN AND SWITCHES OFF THE HEAT WHEN IT FEELS LIKE IT, PLUS THE FLAMES START GOING DOWNWARDS INSTEAD OF UP AHAH, SO DON'T RELY ON IT (should be replaced) BATHROOM AS A FAN HEATER THAT WORKS OK, BUT NEEDS TO BE ON FOR A WHILE TO WARM ROOM UP PRIOR TO SHOWERING ETC, ELECTRIC SHOWER WORKS FINE, AS IT WAS THIS TIME OF YEAR WE TOOK OTHER PEOPLES ADVICE FROM REVIEWS AND TOOK A COUPLE OF EXTRA FAN HEATERS WITH US AND IT WAS A GOOD JOB WE DID. IT WOULD BE NICE IF TV AND DVD PLAYER WERE LARGER AND BETTER CONDITION FOR THE COSY NIGHTS IN, THE OTHER AREA OF OUR CONCERN WAS MOBILE PHONE COVERAGE TO KEEP IN TOUCH WITH SONS BACK HOME AND FAMILY ETC. WE USE THE THREE 3 NETWORK AND SIGNAL IS ABOVE HALFWAY AND GAVE US PEACE OF MIND BEING ABLE TO KEEP IN TOUCH, YOU CAN ALSO GET MOBILE BROADBAND BY CONNECTING TO YOUR PHONE , SO I WAS ABLE TO CARRY ON WITH EBAY AND GENERAL SURFING. IN OUR OPINION THIS IS A GREAT LOVELY COTTAGE IN A FANTASTIC SPOT AND WITH A HISTORY OF RUPERT BEAR AUTHOR ALFRED BESTALL WHO ALSO DID ILLUSTRATE FOR ENID BLYTON BOOKS. WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT,LOADS OF WALKS AND CLOSE ENOUGH TO VILLAGE HOPEFULLY WE WILL BE REVISTING FOR ANOTHER STAY. Kelvyn & Penny ROGERS, WOMBOURNE

Fantastic views, 5 mins from village.. Cottage was well equipped and comfortable. Had a lovely peacefull break, would recommend.

House was lovely, comfortable and was exactly as described.. I would recommend this property to friends, as well as the village as everyone was so lovely.

We stayed here for my birthday, a very pleasant place to stay, stunning location and just a short walk to the village. Very modern bathroom.....just a shame the hot water tank only has enough water for a 1/4 of a bath. Kitchen very well set out and has everything you need...unfortunately the washer doesent work properly..we put it on a 60 min fast wash and it still hadnt done after 3hrs....seems to stick on the wash cycle. Shame there isnt a clothes horse as the weather wasnt good enough to hang them out. We only had to wash due to getting muddy from walking. Also an iron would have been helpful....but...you cant have everything. Living room is cosy....shame there isnt a real log burner, the fan heater does help. Its very cold in the mornings. Lots of books and information leaflets. Bedroom has good storage but the bed is tiny and not really comfortable....but that may just be me...as no two people like the same. All in all the place could do with a good clean.....the light fittings were showing bare connections from the ceilings for some reason. Also the bins hadnt been emptied so we had nowhere to put our rubbish. The tv in the room is tiny too. All in all we very much enjoyed our stay and would recommend it!

There were no towels in the bathroom.. Luckily we had taken a couple

Our 4th consecutive February stay in Penlan, perfect location, lovely cosy cottage with everything you need after a day in the mountains..

We booked Penlan for five nights over New Year 2017 for two adults and a large dog. Arrived to find a very cold cottage but I think it had been empty over Christmas so fair enough. After reading a couple of the reviews, we had taken two small fan heaters and these, with the 'not-quite-man-enough' storage heaters, and the lounge electric heater on, we soon had the place habitable and warm. Small cottage, traditional design with functional fittings - inc a very small TV! - OK in the summer but harder in the long dark winter nights. The bed was possibly not to everyone's liking and bit soft - and with a 6ft bed and I'm 6'1", my feet were pushed through the bottom bedframe. The duvet was a bit thin but we had taken our own and we slept well each night. The open fireplace and chimney in the bedroom makes for interesting sounds during high winds, concerning my wife until she realised what it was. Lovely position overlooking the village and across the valley - a sense of being quite remote but in fact only two mins walk into the village. However the immediate access to the cottage is quite steep, not really suitable for limited mobility. Parking was OK, but given that the neighbouring cottage has regular visitors in cars, negotiating the slope can be a bit difficult due to overhanging hedges etc. Lovely bit of Rupert memorabilia, nice bit of history. The surrounding gardens were fenced in (to keep sheep out I suspect) so it kept the dog from wandering. The only issue with our dog was that at night, letting him out for a late night wee in the dark (the outside light doesn't really cover that far in), we had to make sure he didn't fall off the edge of the wall into the garden, had to make sure he turned left first. The cottage is advertised as for up to five people - personally, I think three would be about the maximum due to the size of the rooms and general space, especially in the winter - summer may be a bit different with regard to more outdoor time. The big question is 'would we go back'?? Like a shot if we can find the time / availability - but if we went in winter, we'd make sure we took the heaters and duvet.

Fantastic location, beautiful cottage however, it was very cold (some blankets would have been appreciated) no towels either.. The cottage has been modernised but to a cheap and very basic standard, also the hot water tank wasn't big enough to fill the bath. The bed was uncomfortable and very low to the ground and would not recommend staying there if you suffer with a bad back.

As we suspect no one had been in the cottage the previous week, it took a little warming up given the recent snow etc.. Whilst there are storage heaters in the rooms, they don't really seem to be man enough to warm the place quickly - the same goes for the electric stove heater in the lounge which worked intermittently. However, as we have done in the past when renting in a mountain area cottage, we had taken a couple of small portable fan heaters to help and the place was soon warm. The cottage was small, clean and functional and in an area we know very well. Although it states that Penlan could house up to five adults, that would be quite cramped - as two adults plus a large dog, it was comfortable for us. As per some other comments by past renters, wi-fi access would be appreciated - there is apparently a land line into the cottage so I cant see a major issue? We are looking at potentially renting Penlan again later this year.

We have been to this cottage before & it is a beautiful location.. The cottage is generally well equipped & comfortable - the only fault is that the bathroom can be chilly & there is quite a drop on the side of the cottage which is unfenced - not good for small children nor bouncy dogs. This time also, I think that the cleaning was somewhat rushed. However, it's a lovely, friendly cottage & we would visit again.

I've already sent an email with all the details

Loved the link to Rupert the bear.. ..Fantastic location close to all local attractions..

We had a wonderful time as usual, the booking was easy and the information ref.. Key collection and contact details was accurate. We always holiday self catering and love the location of this cottage.

A beautiful cottage & wonderful location - especially with a dog as there are so many nearby walks. Our only slight niggle was that it was rather chilly in the bathroom & back bedroom in February - but we DID have snow! The exterior fencing could be improved too, with regard to dogs - maybe fencing off the back from the front. However we had a splendid time & really enjoyed our stay. We would visit again. Thank you

It was the most relaxing holiday ever, the cottage was perfect and the views and surrounding area were breathtaking.

Penlan is a beautiful place to stay!

We loved this cottage, we will stay here again when we revisit Snowdonia, we agree with all the other positive comments Penlan cottage has received.

Penlan is in a fantastic location and is a lovely cottage, so relaxing. There are lovely walks close by also.

A great cottage in a superb position, with a lovely neighbour. I have no hesitation in recommending it and will be visiting again.

Lovely cottage in a beautiful setting and we were blessed with lovely weather! It was everything I was hoping it would be; wonderful views, relaxing, a great time with the family in the outdoors and away from the WiFi!

Beautiful location and overall a very comfortable little cottage. Fascinating to see where Alfred Bestall lived and appreciate how the surroundings influenced his work.

The cottage was quaint, cosy and in a beautiful location.

The cottage is in a lovely position, it is quiet but not far to walk to the village. In lovely surroundings, with lovely people. The walks are breathtaking.

A great cottage with amazing views. Light and well-resolved accommodation, quiet cosy and yet practical. It was very convenient for the village. Very interesting background history as the place where Rupert stories were written.

Excellent cottage and location, you can spend a week exploring the local area without needing to use the car. Neighbours are friendly and helpful. Great for Rupert bear fans, with original artefacts on display. Overall an excellent place to stay and well up to the standard we expect with Sykes.

Great location and friendly people in general.

Penlan was in excellent position in village – nice and peaceful location but close enough to amenities beautiful walks.

Another lovely peaceful week at Penlan - our second consecutive year. The cottage is tucked away at the end of a lane and is unassuming and unpretentious, in a very natural landscape.

Fantastic cottage in a truly stunning location.

Pleasant cottage at the foot of a mountain, own parking space, very modern and clean kitchen and bathroom, beds comfortable and adequate clothes storage, pleasant Rupert Bear themed lounge, though the covers on the three-piece suite could do with updating, short walk to Village centre, all in all very enjoyable

Nice cottage in a lovely location. I would certainly like to visit again.

Lovely cottage, very quiet, great location so close to village. Plenty of local walks, so we did not have to go out in the car too often.

Brilliant place to stay, already booked to return next year!

The cottage is at the end of a quiet lane and therefore affords a high degree of privacy even though it is only a couple of minutes walk from the centre of the village. We booked for its associations with Bestall and so thoroughly appreciated the artefacts relating to his life and career. But even without these we would have enjoyed our stay. The kitchen had all that we needed and the bathroom was clean and refurbished (although pegs on the back of the door for hanging towels would be a good addition). There was a leak from a pipe in the roof space while we were there but thankfully someone came out to look at it very quickly.

Good setting, nice house, friendly and quiet, with wonderful surroundings.

This cottage was very nice and clean . perfect location for what we wanted. The patio was not very big but we made do. The rangers track up Snowdon is only 5 minutes away by car witch you can park directly over the road, and have a nice walk up Snowdon. when back at the cottage, it's only 2 minutes walk into the village for a well deserved pint. We will return one day.

We had one of our best holidays ever in this little cottage, tucked at the end of a quiet lane, yet a couple of minute's walk from the centre of the village. The displayed artefacts belonging to the late Alfred Bestall were a particular delight. Thank you for entrusting your guests with these precious objects - they gave a wonderful authenticity to his former home. We have already booked for next year!

The characteristic cottage was set in a gorgeous village.

The cottage has amazing views and although has the feel of isolation is literally two minutes walk into the heart of the village.

Lovely area around the cottage, excellent walks directly from the front door. Superb location for walking up Snowdon and two great walks 10-20 minute drive from the cottage. Cottage was excellent value for money and we had a very nice time.

Location was brilliant and overall the cottage was perfect. We really enjoyed our holiday!

Great views from all rooms of the cottage. Enclosed garden which was perfect for the dog, with mountain walks right on the door step and the village just a few minutes walk. away Wonderful location BUT ... The cottage really does need some upgrading The Television is the size of a laptop with built in DVD player that does not always work, the ariel cable kept falling out so my partner had to fix it Sofas and chairs are very uncomfortable and need replacing . The bathroom needs updating and the heater did not work The front and back doors very difficult to lock and unlock The advert for the property stated linens provided This does not include towels ! Refuse Bins had not been emptied from the let prior to ours . we woke on our first morning to find rubbish all over the garden , the badgers had raided in the night, It took sometime to clean up

Beddgellert, is a very picturesque village, and Penlan is ideally positioned for the local pubs, and walks. Kitchen is very modern, and the cottage we would recommend. It is worth taking a visit to Portmeiron, and Swallow Falls in Betws-y-Coed. The views from the cottage are breathtaking, the neighbours are great and you must visit have a meal in the pub!

Penlan cottage is in a beautiful quiet position only a few minutes stroll to the centre of the village with great walks alround from your doorstep. Will certainly go back again, and would reccommend to anyone. Doreen and Derek. September 2012.

Lovely cottage - excellent location - nice and quiet. Very easy to walk to village. Warm and cosy.

The location was excellent, very dog friendly and eating facilities in Beddgelert were excellent. Very good walks around the area.

just a perfect holiday in a lovely place, cottage clean, tidy and great to think of rupeert the bears author/illustrator actually working from there.

Great garden for taking your dog or children! loved it. Only negative bathroom needs a bit of a refurb - especially if you were looking for a romantic break.

The view was amazing. The cottage so cosy and cute. Loved it. The garden was great and a fantastic location for Snowdonia or even a trip to the seaside. Would book again.

Just so peaceful and beautiful.

We just loved the cottage, it was quaint and cosy. We hope to visit again. The view was awesome and if I could move there I would.

The cottage was really nice, the scenery was brilliant and the village location was lovely. Lots of places to visit and see in the area, with just a short car journey from the bigger town.

Overall we had a thoroughly nice holiday and hope to go back soon. Very suitable cottage for taking pets. Very pretty location with good shops and amenities nearby. Great for walks and peace and quiet.

Great spot, both Beddgelert itself as a base but also the cottage position in the village. Nice dog-friendly pubs. Good walks and lots to see and do if touring by car.

A lovely cottage in a great spot in a lovely village! In easy reach of lots of beautiful locations and days out with young children. Really enjoyed seeing all the Rupert Bear artefacts in the house.