'This new cottage from Under the Thatch is a bit of a slog to get to, but once you’ve taken the winding mountain road from Talsarnau and followed a bumpy track through three farm gates, you’ll be greeted by the jolliest of secluded stays and the wildest of views across the Afon Dwyryd estuary to Portmeirion and Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon).

The cottage is owned by an architect and a ceramicist who have had fun with the design. Wonky walls and wood-panelling are painted in juicy colours and brave patterns abound.'
The Times - Cosy Cottages for Autumn (2026)

Getting away from it all is a given at this newly launched cottage in a secluded mountain setting north-east of Harlech.  While you could drive down the hillside for a windswept walk along the beach at Black Rock Sands, or to explore the legacy of Clough Williams-Ellis at Portmeirion and Plas Brondanw, it would also be tempting to arrive fully supplied and squirrel yourselves away, soaking up the views or hiking straight out into the rugged wilds of Eryri national park. The Guardian - Great Cottages for Autumn (2026). 

Cae'n y Bwlch Isaf is a beautifully curated interior in a deliciously secluded location. This is the kind of house that you arrive at, and stay at, taking walks from the door. 

Three comfortable bedrooms, two small bathrooms and views that you'll never tire of. It's not far to the beach, or to the village, but the gates and track make this place feel like the place you'll make your base. Walk up to Bryn Cader Faner ring cairn, or sit in the garden enjoying some of the best views that North Wales can offer.


Features

Accessibility

  • Ground floor bedroom

Bathroom Features

  • Bath

Family Friendly

  • Young children welcome
  • Washing machine

Heating

  • Open fire / woodburner

Location

  • Farm or rural location
  • Coastal location - within 5 miles of the sea
  • Secluded location

Media & Technology

  • Smart TV

Bed Layout

  • Double bed
  • Double bed
  • Double bed

In Detail

The property has reasonable wifi, and the ground floor is heated via underfloor heating. There is a woodburner in the parlour, a large open fire in the living room, and some supplementary electric radiators.Ground Floor:

  • Parlour - the heart of the home given its central position here, with woodburner
  • Study - with desk to work at, and the strongest wifi signal
  • Kitchen - with range cooker, small dishwasher, fridge freezer
  • Boot Room - with microwave, ironing board, washing machine, tumble dryer and a drying rack
  • Largest Bedroom with direct access out to garden - note there are no toilets on the ground floor.
First Floor
  • Living / Dining room with large open fire and spectacular views across the estuary. Large TV (connects to wifi) in cupboard
  • Double Bedroom
  • Double Bedroom
  • Bathroom 1 - bath only
  • Bathroom 2 - bath only
Outside
  • simple gardens that are mostly left to grass, dining furniture and benches
  • Outdoor shower
  • Ample parking for several cars


Good to know

  • Check in at : 16:00
  • Check out by: 10:00
  • Up to 6
  • 7 nights from £907 (based on 2 staying)
  • Pets - Welcome (maximum: 1 dog)
  • Location
  • Talsarnau, Eryri / Snowdonia National Park, North Wales
  • Nearby
  • Portmeirion Village - across the estuary from the cottage. An Italianate village designed by Clo... Read more
  • Infants - Welcome + Cot & high chair available
  • Children - Welcome
  • This property is accessed via a steep, narrow tarmac public road and then approximately half a mile of track which goes through three closed gates and a farmyard - it is a secluded location. Low cars (eg BMWs) may find the track challenging though standard height cars (eg Fords) are fine. We close in winter when we consider the track would be more challenging.

Bed Layout

  • Double bed
  • Double bed
  • Double bed

  • Portmeirion Village - across the estuary from the cottage. An Italianate village designed by Clough Williams-Ellis. Has to be seen to be believed!
  • Harlech Castle - built by Edward I to terrify the life out of the Welsh.
  • Ffestiniog Railway - original steam trains chugging through the local mountains.
  • Black Rock Sands - huge sandy beach at Morfa Bychan, about half an hour away.
  • Borth y Gest - cute little village with pastel cottages and a good café.
  • Maritime Museum, Porthmadog - discover the town's history as a centre for shipping Welsh slate around the world.
  • Climb Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) - climb or take the train up the tallest mountain in Wales.
  • Criccieth - lovely little seaside town with a clean beach and Welsh castle. Great food at Dylan's.
  • Plas Brondanw - ancestral home of Clough Williams-Ellis, now an art centre and gallery. Beautiful gardens with wonderful topiary and a great café.

Reviews

Christina W,

2026

After some very demanding weeks, we were looking for somewhere to relax, unwind and recharge – and we found the perfect place. Cae'n y Bwlch Isaf has it all: a cosy, tastefully decorated interior, a wonderful garden, the mountains right on your doorstep, great beaches nearby, and the VIEWS! We often just sat on one of the benches and soaked up the incredible scenery. We very much hope to come back one day.

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