Hafod Y Morfa

Dolgellau sits deep in Snowdonia's mountains, with moorland and forest climbing away in all directions. Hafod Y Morfa is a modern cottage here that can sleep eight across three bedrooms, all with their own bathrooms, plus a sofa bed downstairs. Two of the bedrooms have ensuite showers; the third has a full bathroom attached. There's a separate ground-floor toilet as well, which matters when the house is full.

The kitchen is properly equipped for cooking—electric oven, hob, dishwasher and all the rest—and opens into a dining space. The living room has a woodburner and a smart TV. A second lounge area downstairs contains a PlayStation and another TV. One dog is welcome. Outside, there's a hot tub that holds six, a garden with seating and a gas barbecue, and parking for three cars. Electricity, heating, bed linen, towels and wifi are included.

The village offers pubs and local shops within reach. For walkers, Snowdonia's ridges and valleys lie on the doorstep. The coast is close enough for a drive to beaches or to explore the castles that dot the region. Smoking is not permitted inside.