Aran

Nantgwynant Valley sits at the foot of Snowdon, ringed by some of Wales's most dramatic peaks and lake country. The Watkin Path trailhead is 300 metres away; Beddgelert village, with its pubs, shops and ice cream parlour, lies just minutes' drive down the valley. Llyn Dinas and Llyn Gwynant offer kayaking and paddleboarding, while the surrounding hills and forests hold everything from gentle riverside strolls to serious mountain scrambles. This is walking, climbing and outdoor sports territory.

Aran itself is a spacious four-bedroom house arranged over two floors. Downstairs, an open-plan living and dining space centres on a woodburning stove; the kitchen is fully equipped for self-catering with gas cooking, a dishwasher and laundry facilities. Bedrooms split between two kingsize beds, one double and two singles, with two bathrooms across the property. A garden with sitting area overlooks the woodland; one dog is welcome provided it's kept on a lead, as sheep graze nearby. Wi-Fi, heating, electricity, bed linen and towels come included. The cottage sleeps ten and is yours alone for the duration of your stay.

The village of Beddgelert holds centuries of history and folklore, while Sygun copper mine offers a family visit. Llanberis, with its mountain railway to Snowdon's summit, is 25 minutes' drive. Smoking is not permitted inside.