Hen Gapel, LLANDECWYN

Rated 5/50 by Rachelhturner on 8th August 2019

"We enjoyed a fantastic family holiday here with our Sons, their girlfriends and our dog. The house had everything we needed and there was plenty of room to spread out. The views were stunning. We enjoyed plenty of walks from the doorstep, climbed snowdon , 'bounced below' and swam in the lake. The week went too quickly! We loved it here. "

Rated 5/50 by Beth H on 12th June 2019

"We loved it here, really didn't want to leave! The road to the cottage is a bit of a rollercoaster ride, but you soon get used to it. Beautiful and quirky cottage, everything you need for your stay, the area is magical, you can walk for miles! And the cottage has its own lake!! We are open water swimmers so it was perfect for us, clear water with the most amazing view, what more can you ask for."

Rated 5/50 by ThaiTJ on 24th October 2017

Rated 5/50 by Kiran R on 12th August 2017

"We have just returned from a week at this beautiful, peaceful home. There were 7 of us, ranging from 18 to 70 years plus my brother who has Downs Syndrome. There was so much space, brother and daughters were very happy in the upstairs lounge with their Xbox and playing pool, in-laws favoured the sunny conservatory and we all gathered round the large kitchen table to play games. We had a Tesco delivery ordered for our first night which was so helpful given the remote location. If you want to get away from it all and really relax this place is ideal. My husband caught 6 brown trout from the lake so he was in heaven and he also played a round of golf at the nearby Royal St Davids. The house is equipped well and Jane is great. We are hoping to return in the near future."

Rated 5/50 by Judithjarvis53 on 12th June 2017

"Great cottage for a group of friends. The different living areas meant that we could all do different things ( living room became the reading room upstairs the games room) without being on top of each other. Some great walks direct from the cottage so didn't have to go far if we didn't want to but we also had a fabulous walk on the beach at Harlech and then up to some slate mines. Even though we went in April we had one gorgeous evening where we could sit out and have G&T's before dinner. The garden was lovely and my early morning walk down to the lake with my dog was just wonderful. Didn't want to leave."

Rated 4/50 by _sheryl_c_234_ on 6th October 2016

"Lovely cottage with lots of space for a large group. The surrounding area is peaceful, beautiful and remote."

Rated 5/50 by Denisetreacy on 2nd July 2016

"Hen Gapel is a large cottage that has something for everyone! spacious , clean,Rural setting. Owner Jane , was very friendly and welcoming when we arrived.with complimentary cake, milk etc.This place has it all! before you rush out to buy things you might need...check out the cupboards.it seems to have everything.toilet rolls,washing products (ecco friendly)The views are stunning, a perfect base for visiting the surrounding areas. The garden is is large and well planted, but could benefit with a little cutting back, to make access easier.Nearest neighbours..sheep..which amble up and down outside the property.watch out for the farmer that passes every morning on his quad bike, with two sheep dogs sat on the back, a sight to be seen. The garden is secure for larger dogs,but not for tiny dogs.and if by chance you have a rainy week, like we did,snuggle up in the lounge in front of a blazing log fire, and read a book, also supplied upstairs in the upper lounge, something for everyone, and let the kids play on the games consul, play pool.or use one of the many games also supplied. All in all, a comfortable rural little piece of heaven!Thank you Jane ...for making our stay so memorable."

Rated 5/50 by Kate G on 29th July 2015

Rated 5/50 by MrsJHodson on 12th September 2014

"A lovely homely holiday property and a warm welcome from the owner. There is plenty of room for everyone to have their own space. The pool table, wii, wi-fi and swimming in the lake were a big plus for the kids. Lots of activities to do in the area - quad biking and Bounce Below were most popular. Harlech beach (only 8 miles away) is just perfect. Would thoroughly recommend and look forward to visiting again."

Rated 4/50 by Donkaufman2014 on 23rd August 2014

"Never actually met the landlady in person, but Jane Sampson is to be commended. Judging by what she lays on and how Hen G is fitted out, clearly this is not merely a revenue raising exercise for Jane. There is in force a genuine desire that clients should ENJOY their stay.The double lounge is a useful bonus when some want to switch on and other family members want some quiet. if I have an issue it would be with the website. Hen Gaple is described as being 7.5 miles from Harlech. True, it is 5 miles down the A498 to Llandecwyn, which would take 5-10 mins, but it does not tell you that the remaining 2.5 miles FROM Llandecwyn to Hen Gaple takes some 15 minutes, being a steep narrow mountain road .......... and any time you want to car anywhere it means starting with 15 mins DOWN this bendy road, at 20 m.p.h. max. the site should make clear that this a place for those who seek a quiet remote place with different outstanding views from each upstairs window, at a cost of convenience of location. It tends to be a degree or two cooler up in Hen Gaple than down in town. Furthermore I booked this site believing I could reach Minnfford, Porthmadog and the Llein peninsula in five minutes from Llandecwyn. However the site does not reveal that the bridge from Landecwyn to Minnfford has been closed for the past one and a half years. This meant a ten mile (20 mins) detourvia Maentrog, and ten mile return detour, costing time and fuel."

Rated 5/50 by Lindasacriston on 17th July 2014

"We received relevant directions to, and information regarding the property from the owner with contact numbers well in advance of our holiday . On arrival we received a warm welcome and time was given to answer the families questions on the facilities available. A lovely home, the house exceeded our expectations, the space, quality and comfort in both living areas, bathrooms and bedrooms, and cleanliness was excellent. For poor weather the games room had lots of activities and books . We were 3 generations from toddler to oldies plus dogs: the gardens had something for all panoramic views, plants and the one accessed from the upstairs sitting room was safe for all and well used. The weather was exceptional, we all swam in the lake everyday and it was great for our canoe . Walking from the door the choice was endless. The road in was narrow but posed no problem and was as we expected looking at the map. We found lots of choice in places to visit, Portmeirion and Harlech including the beach our favourites. All the family agree that having taken 2/3 self catering holidays a year for 30 years this property is one that we will remember. Thank you for lending us your home we hope to return soon."

Rated 5/50 by JohnGrosvenor on 24th August 2013

"We all loved this cottage from the moment we arrived and agree wholeheartedly and completely with all the positive comments from earlier reviews. The only negative from our point of view was the drive up from the main road on which some other reviews have also commented. Following it on Streetview somehow doesn't convey the narrowness of the road and steepness of some of the climbs. Having said that, it certainly got easier each time we drove it through the week. The passing places became imprinted and we began to realise that there were actually fewer stretches than we had thought where we could not see to the next one. Remoteness in Snowdonia comes at the price of such a drive and the loveliness of the cottage and its location makes it worthwhile."

Rated 5/50 by Nicola3460 on 7th June 2013

"This cottage is a delight if quirky. It's very much up and down with a step here and a step there - literally. We took two teenagers and the split of the house with an upstairs sitting room, complete with snooker table and surround sound, meant we weren't living in each others shoes and was ideal. We did discover that downstairs we had to watch whatever they were watching on Sky upstairs though! The views are totally stunning with Snowdon in the distance. We loved the fact the sheep were looking at us through the gate and we could sit with our early morning cuppa in the conservatory looking at the hills. The cottage had everything we could want, though it took a day or two to discover the washing machine outside the patio door and in an outer utility room, but that was all part of the charm. The owners were delightful and very helpful - we will be going back."

Rated 4/50 by DonnaNAndy on 12th October 2012

"The cottage is situated at the end of a very long, twisty and uphill stretch of country lane. It takes some getting to!! but its worth it once you do find it ;-) The location is remote, beautiful and ultimately peaceful. 360 degree views of mountains and rolling countryside. Usually the only other living beings for miles are sheep!! Its truly a private get away. The lake, while a little trek away, is a lovely addition to this property. We spent lots of out door time walking, boating, eating in the garden, sunbathing (we were very lucky with the weather) and generally relaxing. Stunning surroundings. The house was quirky. Unlike any other holiday rental I have stayed in! It felt very much as if the family had moved out, left many of their belongings behind, then let the house for holidays without completing the move :-) I would also have to say it would certainly benefit from a deep clean and a little modernising in parts. That said, it was also the best equipped holiday home I have stayed in, we wanted for absolutely nothing! everything was provided, right down to dishwasher tablets and washing power. The kitchen had everything we needed and much much more. The second lounge upstairs, the games room, boasted a full sized pool table, nintendo wii, a library of books, games, jigsaws etc etc. The owners were very very lovely people, they even offered us an extra night at the end of the stay as they had family arriving to stay in it and there was a night in between, they said we were very welcome to stay and stay we did!! If you want a well equped, home from home, remote, comfortable, cozy cottage to stay in with superb surroundings and flexible owners, this is the place for you :-) Donna Hartley"

Rated 4/50 by DonnaNAndy on 12th October 2012

"The cottage is situated at the end of a very long, twisty and uphill stretch of country lane. It takes some getting to!! but its worth it once you do find it ;-) The location is remote, beautiful and ultimately peaceful. 360 degree views of mountains and rolling countryside. Usually the only other living beings for miles are sheep!! Its truly a private get away. The lake, while a little trek away, is a lovely addition to this property. We spent lots of out door time walking, boating, eating in the garden, sunbathing (we were very lucky with the weather) and generally relaxing. Stunning surroundings. The house was quirky. Unlike any other holiday rental I have stayed in! It felt very much as if the family had moved out, left many of their belongings behind, then let the house for holidays without completing the move :-) I would also have to say it would certainly benefit from a deep clean and a little modernising in parts. That said, it was also the best equipped holiday home I have stayed in, we wanted for absolutely nothing! everything was provided, right down to dishwasher tablets and washing power. The kitchen had everything we needed and much much more. The second lounge upstairs, the games room, boasted a full sized pool table, nintendo wii, a library of books, games, jigsaws etc etc. The owners were very very lovely people, they even offered us an extra night at the end of the stay as they had family arriving to stay in it and there was a night in between, they said we were very welcome to stay and stay we did!! If you want a well equped, home from home, remote, comfortable, cozy cottage to stay in with superb surroundings and flexible owners, this is the place for you :-) Donna Hartley"

Rated 3/50 by Mistycarol on 14th August 2012

"Hen Gapel is in a very remote location/lovely scenery; the drive is long, down a single-track winding lane, up to 20% gradient...quite tricky and deffinitely not for the feint hearted! Accommodation is spacious, if a little tired (particularly the main bathroom). The 2 lounges meant the children and adults could do their own thing. Quite quirky, with a mix of furniture; felt a little more like staying in someone's home rather than a holiday let, with lots of ornaments and drawers full of stuff. Not very clean and a bit musty downstairs."

Rated 3/50 by Mistycarol on 14th August 2012

"Hen Gapel is in a very remote location/lovely scenery; the drive is long, down a single-track winding lane, up to 20% gradient......quite tricky and deffinitely not for the feint hearted! Accommodation is spacious, if a little tired (particularly the main bathroom). The 2 lounges meant the children and adults could do their own thing. Quite quirky, with a mix of furniture; felt a little more like staying in someone's home rather than a holiday let, with lots of ornaments and drawers full of stuff. Not very clean and a bit musty downstairs."

Rated 5/50 by Ed N on 12th July 2012

"We stayed in april with a group of friends, arriving after dark (brilliantly clear starry sky - there was practically no light pollution) and choosing bedrooms at random. If you have a choice, go for the bedroom up the stairs to the left - we awoke to a beautiful scene of the sun warming the hills opposite. The biggest asset of this property is the fantastic location: from the sitting room window you can see the snowy peak of Snowdon, stroll outside and there's a small lake within two minutes walk and hills close enough for a pre-breakfast stroll; or jump in the car and you've got the whole of Snowdonia on your doorstep! We ran out of time before even scratching the surface of the list of nearby walks. The house itself was well furnished and equipped; plenty of room for a large party, big living areas, ample kitchen, a toasty wood burner, and a pool table and tv/home cinema set-up. Broadband was surprisingly quick for such a remote location and our dog loved the place too. A very comfortable placed to return and relax after a day on the hills, but also plenty to keep you entertained if it rains. Overall, we had a brilliant and very relaxing break which left nothing but good memories. Would definitely visit again."

Rated 5/50 by Ed N on 12th July 2012

"We stayed in April with a group of friends, arriving after dark (brilliantly clear starry sky - there was practically no light pollution) and choosing bedrooms at random. If you have a choice, go for the bedroom up the stairs to the left - we awoke to a beautiful scene of the sun warming the hills opposite. The biggest asset of this property is the fantastic location: from the sitting room window you can see the snowy peak of Snowdon, stroll outside and there's a small lake within two minutes walk and hills close enough for a pre-breakfast stroll; or jump in the car and you've got the whole of Snowdonia on your doorstep! We ran out of time before even scratching the surface of the list of nearby walks. The house itself was well furnished and equipped; plenty of room for a large party, big living areas, ample kitchen, a toasty wood burner, and a pool table and tv/home cinema set-up. Broadband was surprisingly quick for such a remote location and our dog loved the place too. A very comfortable placed to return and relax after a day on the hills, but also plenty to keep you entertained if it rains. Overall, we had a brilliant and very relaxing break which left nothing but good memories. Would definitely visit again."

Rated 5/50 by Lisa P on 6th July 2012

"We had an amazing time here at Hen Gapel, the cottage was clean and very well kept. There is lots of space for the children with the games room featuring a wii, surround sound system (excellent for films), flat screen t.v, sky and also which our children loved a pool table. also an amazing mountain view. Bedrooms upstairs were a good size and very clean with the larger bedroom also having an amazing mountain view. There is also an upstairs bathroom which is well decorated and spacious. Downstairs is a very well equip kitchen with all you could want to cook with. Lovely addition to this was the touch screen hob and oven. Dining area is large with a big table to accommodate all of us and was my favourite part of the house because it is a good social space even if you are cooking. The living area was lovely and spacious a beautiful woodburner. lovely french doors opening to the garden. There was also a bathroom with a bath and a adult bunk bed room which were all very nice and clean there is a bedroom with ensuite which also was a very nice area. The garden was well kept and a bbq,benches and table and chairs could be used. Beautiful sunsets can also be seen from the top part of the garden. Also there is a separate laundry room to do all your washing in ( very important for families) Tranquil and relaxing this holiday home is something I would recommend. Beautiful mountain views and birds song in the morning and at dusk this holiday cottage is really something special to see."

Rated 2/50 by Kr_snail on 26th May 2012

Rated 5/50 by Helena Barrett on 21st December 2011

"Lovely house - comfortable, interesting and quirky. Pretty gardens and amazing views. When we chose this house, we were looking for somewhere fairly remote but with decent mod cons such as a telephone signal and broadband and this house does not disappoint. The location is absolutely beautiful and we were lucky to have a couple of really sunny, warm days even though it was mid October and can imagine the owners' lake must be a real bonus in the summer months. The flowers and cake left for us on arrival were a lovely, welcoming gesture. The furniture was comfortable (even the mattresses which is not always the case with a holiday let), the kitchen, although quite small, had all the equipment you might expect and did not feel so small as it opened onto the dining area. The pool table is a definite bonus as is Sky TV and the woodburner. The only real negative is that driving to the main road is certainly not for the faint-hearted and it makes you think twice about going out for the day - but we wanted remote and with such stunning scenery it was no hardship spending most of our days walking through the surrounding countryside."