Bwthyn Mai

Bwthyn Mai lies in a secluded spot on Craflwyn Estate, just outside Beddgelert village which was named for the tragic tale of 13th-century Prince Llywelyn and his faithful hound Gelert. The legends don’t stop there either: Dinas Emrys, where the famous Welsh dragon lies sleeping, is only a short walk away, and of course there’s Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) itself where King Arthur slew the fierce giant Rhitta Gawr.

The cottage itself is compact but comfortable. You enter straight into the dining room and lounge, complete with a log burner to cosy up beside after a long day on the trails. There’s also an open plan kitchen on this floor. Head up one flight of stairs to the family bathroom, one very small single bedroom and a larger master bedroom. The bedroom roofs are pitched so do mind your heads. Outside you’ll find a small patio area to the side of the building – perfect for sitting out in the sunshine and watching the world go by.

Eryri (Snowdonia) is famous for its mountainous walking trails, but if you’re looking for something more relaxing then there’s still plenty to keep you occupied right from the cottage door. Beddgelert village is small and friendly with a handful of shops, arts and crafts, restaurants and traditional pubs. There are plenty of lower-level walks around the village too, taking in quiet woodlands, serene lakes and the dramatic Aberglaslyn gorge. This is also a brilliant area for bird and wildlife watchers, while those searching for a slice of cake can head to Caffi Gwynant near Hafod y Llan farm.

Those seeking a challenge can try hiking one of the routes to the top of  Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). The Watkin Path – the most difficult route – starts from the next village over, Nant Gwynant. Alternatively, you can go for the less-strenuous Llanberis Path which is about 35 minutes’ drive from the cottage. If you’re after some more adrenaline-fuelled adventure then there’s plenty to be found nearby. You can even head to the beach at Porthmadog, about 10 miles from the cottage.

Bwthyn Mai is next to a group of holiday cottages - Craflwyn Hall, which sleeps 16 people, and six smaller cottages in the adjacent stable block, Sygun (sleeps two), Dinas Emrys (sleeps two), Aran (sleeps two), Stabl Bach (sleeps four), Llety Mawr (sleeps six) and Yr Hen Swyddfa (sleeps four). Larger groups of up to 39 people can book some or all of these cottages together.

Parking: There is a main car park 200 metres away from the cottage. Guests are permitted to load/unload outside of the cottage though turning their car may be tricky at times.

WIFI: We’re pleased to provide free WiFi access at this accommodation which is supported by BT. Please note intermittent connection problems can sometimes occur and therefore should not be relied upon.

Heating: The cottage is heated by electric wall panel heaters. There is also a multi fuel stove. Guests will need to provide logs for this.

Offers: Guests will benefit from a late Sunday checkout of 4pm at this cottage.

Wild Escapes: Bwthyn Mai is featured in our new travel book, Wild Escapes, available to buy online or in National Trust shops. From rugged coastline to secluded woodland, it's filled with inspiration from far-reaching corners of the UK for your next adventure.

Plastic Free Yr Wyddfa: Plastic Free Yr Wyddfa is an initiative organised by Eryri National Park to protect the mountain’s sustainable future. This cottage, and all National Trust holiday cottages in the national park have been awarded silver status in this plastic-free business programme, and we are making changes to work towards gold status.