Gallestra

Cader Idris, Snowdonia National Park
Guests: 4 Wifi: not available Pets? Pets welcome (max. 2 dogs), fee applies

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about the property

One of the best and finest holiday cottages in Snowdonia, this North Wales family holiday cottage has privacy and 5* quality as well as easy access to either beach or mountain. Perfect base for Cader Idris, this is the best Dolgellau area holiday cottage.

Own your 'own' mountain for a week or weekend! 750 acres of the best of Snowdonia!

The perfect location for those who can't decide between the mountains and the beach. Gallestra enjoys an astounding location in the Snowdonia National Park, with views of the Cader Idris mountain range, and 750 acres of private farmland. Yet only 10 minutes from golden sands. There are few places as beautiful in the UK, and Gallestra also offers a handsomely furnished secluded farmhouse that is snug all year round. You'd be hard pushed to find anywhere better to stay in Snowdonia - this one really is a gem. These fabulous winter travel blog photos were taken by a UTT guest, the walk up starting from the door.

You have direct access onto the Snowdonia National Park walk to the Cregennan Lakes and Arthog, connecting with the Mawddach Trail along the estuary between Dolgellau and Barmouth. Within walking distance, there are Sites of Special Scientific Interest, RSPB reserves, important geology at Pared y Cefnhir, and prehistoric and medieval sites.

A special house in a very special place: you'd be hard pushed to find anywhere better to stay in Snowdonia (other than C ae Einion which is privately situated on the same family farm a couple of fields away across the valley).

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latest review

We loved our stay a Gallestra - a true detox from all things news related & social media. The views from the cottage are breathtaking. We had the best sleeps......total peace & quiet. The cottage...
Jacqueline G, July 2021

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good to know

arrival at: 17:00
depart by: 10:00
guests: 4
7 nights from: £565 (based on 2 staying)
7 nights up to: £1505 (based on 2 staying)
pets: pets welcome (max. 2 dogs)
bed layout: Master Double and the Double only

facilities at Gallestra

general

farm or rural location

open fire / woodburner

activities

coastal location - within 5 miles of the sea

cleaning services

washing machine

map - location

travel info

Train to Machynlleth, connecting Arriva bus to Dolgellau. Bus to Fairbourne, alight at Abergwynant and walk uphill the last mile.

The National Cycle Network No. 8 passes less than a mile away.

in detail

Please note that this cottage is a digital detox property! No WiFi, TV or radio. (Of course, you are welcome to bring your own devices)

Central heating throughout included in holiday price, and no fewer than three wood-burning stoves! The first basket of wood is provided and further supplies can be bought in Dolgellau.

Ground Floor:

Sitting Room 1 / 'Y Gegin Ora' – country furniture, wood burner
Sitting Room 2 / 'Y Parlwr', wood burner
Kitchen / 'Y Gegin' - Neff oven/hob, microwave, dishwasher, fridge, wood burner, table & chairs
Dining Room – oak dining table and chairs
Utility Room – washing machine (no dryer), second fridge/freezer, boot area
Downstairs loo

First Floor:

Bedroom 1 – king size bed, fitted wardrobe
Bedroom 2 - 3’ single Victorian wooden bed
Bedroom 3 – king size bed, original oak floorboards
Bedroom 4 – 3’ single traditional iron/brass bedstead, original oak floorboards
Bathroom – modern suite with bidet and generous shower cubicle (no bath), heated towel rail
Llofft Groes – hideaway space with seating

Outside:

Plenty of parking
Former farmyard (used occasionally for sheep, but not at unreasonable hours and owners conscious of minimal disturbance to guests).
750 acres of beautiful pasture and woodland to explore.
Secure dog-friendly garden space

local area

Dolgellau – Historic town - 5 miles / 10 mins
Mawddach Trail – under 1 mile to join
Coed y Brenin (mountain biking, Nordic Walking) - 7 miles
Fairbourne (beach) - 6 miles / 10 mins.
George III bar/ restaurant (good & great views!) - 1.5 mile
Barmouth (resort, beach etc) - 9 miles / 18 mins.
Cregennan Lakes - (The National Trust’s) spectacular viewpoint of mountains and Cardigan Bay - eveyone’s Favourite walk direct from the house.
Cader Idris (mountain) - you're in foothills!
Dylanwad (Cellar Wine Shop, Cafe/Bar) - 5 miles / 10 mins.
T H Roberts Coffee Shop, Dolgellau
MoMa in Machynlleth, art gallery
Y Meirionnydd - lovely period house restaurant with good food in the centre of Dolgellau.

customer reviews for Gallestra

We loved our stay a Gallestra - a true detox from all things news related & social media. The views from the cottage are breathtaking. We had the best sleeps......total peace & quiet. The cottage is well equipped and cosy. We had a sunny week which made things even better. Thank you Megan we will return one day.

- Jacqueline G,

July 2021

This was our second visit to this wonderful cottage. we have stayed in many remote cottages int he UK, and this location is the most special, with dozens of walks from your door and the most tranquil and relaxing setting surrounded by step and fields! The lane to the cottage is just used by you and you have no immediate neighbours. No wifi or TV means that you do switch off (literally) - there is good radio reception though and we were pleased we took our portable DAB with us as there isnt one in the house. The house is very comfortable, the kitchen is well equipped and fine for holiday cooking. The 2 lounges give you plenty of space. Agree with a previous review that the shower could perhaps be updated, but it is perfectly adequate. Water pressure may be a challenge in installing anything more powerful. The bedrooms are a good size and its delightful waking up to the sound of nature and the lambs around you. We saw lots of interesting birdlife, including the resident buzzards circling above, a sparrow hawk, some redstarts and some red kites. We really enjoyed using the garden - we were blessed with some amazing weather, and managed to eat outside 4 evenings. It was like being in Tuscany when the sun was out! You now have a seating area in the front yard as well to have your morning coffee. The children loved seeing the lambs around us, especially the frequent visits they made to check on us in the kitchen! One tip: My daughter did get a tick on her leg on a walk, luckily we have a tick remover, and it was quickly dealt with. I would advise anyone visiting Snowdonia to invest in one and have a look online before visiting so you know how to deal with them

- Paul E,

June 2021

We had perfect weekend. The cottage was idyllic. Cosy, quiet, isolated in one of the most beautiful parts of Wales we have yet visited. We walked up Cadair Idris directly from the cottage (a 18 km round trip) and were delighted to have a day out without driving. Can't recommend this place enough. Thank you. P.S. The only thing this cottage is missing is a bathtub. The room behind the bathroom would make the most amazing bathtub room!

- Joanna boehnert ,

May 2021

Relaxing, comfortable and secluded, Gallestra is the perfect cottage to get away from it all and forget the rat race for a few days. No devices meant we reconnected as a family, after a winter lockdown where devices were the mainstay of our entertainment. Playing board games, playing in the gardens and exploring our surroundings was just what we needed and look forward to returning soon.

- Suzi M,

April 2021

What a wonderful home in the most idyllic of settings. Crop fresh air , silence other than for sheep , woodpeckers, owls and the odd buzzard !! It was so bucolic that we didn’t travel far and stayed to enjoy the view and spend quality time together as a family. Just a couple of suggestions which would improve the stay as a better shower would befit the rest of the package and a small welcome pack after a long journey helps.

- Duncan M,

Beautifully quiet and cosy cottage in a wonderful location. The house is full of character, you just need to remember to duck a lot of the time (low doorframes). The kitchen was really well equipped which made cooking and mealtimes a real pleasure. Lovely also to have the company of the sheep outside.

- Ian M,

October 2020

We had a marvellous short stay at Gallestra. The house itself is lovely, so interesting and comfortable too. We appreciated the extra hygeine precautions that had been taken for our safety. Gallestra is set in such a magnificent landscape and we did some memorable walks, and had fun in the evenings playing family games without the distractions of tv, phones etc.

- Diana D,

September 2020

A large farmhouse cottage in a stunning location. Loads of original features, but with all the modern conveniences you need.

- Jane R,

Such an incredible location. The lack of Wifi and of near neighbours, bar the sheep and the swallows meant the best sleep we have had in years. Such beautiful walks from the door. The only downside to the comfortable and well equipped cottage were the low lintels - one of our party ended up with a mild concussion! Tall people must duck! (Might be worth padding out the lintels somehow.) Overall great though.

- Anna hope ,

Beautiful house. Beautiful location.

- Paul L,

August 2020

This is the second time we have stayed at gallestra and most certainly will not be the last. This property is an absolute joy to spend our well earned holidays. Our dogs love the garden area and so did the children. We have complete ease of mind letting them unsupervised in the garden due to the amazing remote location. The views are nothing short of spectacular and alfresco dining is a must when staying at gallestra. On the rainy days and breakfast times we enjoy using the kitchen area for dining. Its is always clean and welcoming with all the ammeniaties you could require even in these crazy times. We explored the amazing countryside mountains and lakes that is litterally on your door step. Thanks so much for another brilliant comfortable stay.

- Dawn I,

July 2020

Thank you for a relaxing holiday. The cottage was lovely, very clean and cosy. The location was perfect.

- Andrew E,

September 2019

We had a wonderful stay at Gallestra, which is in a beautiful location. The cottage is very comfortable with good facilities and lovely decor. We would definitely return for another stay. I can't recommend it highly enough. Thank you.

- Nicole H,

Gallestra is a magical place, very secluded, with only the sheep for company as you enjoy the wonderful view. The weather was very mixed for our stay, as you would expect in Wales, but there was still masses for us to do - beach days, mountain walking, lakeside sitting, forest exploring, slate mines, steam trains, pub food...I could go on. A great holiday for a family (and a dog). We left wishing we had more time to stay.

- Hilary stainsby ,

August 2019

We had a great time at Gallestra and enjoyed being off grid and unplugged in beautiful surroundings. The house is full of character and well equipped in the kitchen even with Portmeirion China. We enjoyed eating in the garden over the amazing views and listening to all the birds. We explored near and far. Great walks from the doorstep into landscape more like Northern Spain than Wales to me and also scaled Cader Idris and Rhinog Fawr up the Roman Steps which was fabulous. We also enjoyed incredible beaches below Porthmadog and around Llyn Peninsular partic cove and coastal walks around Port Iago. Also enjoyed Atlantic Rainforest walk when torrential. We had dogs with us so did not eat out though heard good things about George 111 by the bridge. Baker, Butcher and veg shop in Dollgellau all v friendly and good. We also discovered a blackcurrent goosberry cross called a Joscaberry in The WI Thursday morning fair at the ship. Delicious ! Thanks Megan!

- Jenny A,

July 2019

Excellent stay. I have good photographs of views from the house, if the owner would like copies please ask her to email me Regards, William

- William H,

May 2019

We, a family of four plus my mother, had a wonderful week at Gallestra over Easter. The house is a marvel with all its nooks and crannies which the kids loved to explore, and we thoroughly enjoyed the lovely bedrooms, the warm shower and the several wood burners! There are many walks straight from the door, stunning vistas wherever you go, a thousand lambs gracing the hills at that time of year, and silence and peace in abundance. We attempted Mount Snowden one day (the Watkins path leads past stunning waterfalls), swam in lakes and rivers and an extraordinary quarry (don't miss the Blue Pool, if you're a wild swimmer), picked wild garlic and nettles and cooked with them in the homely kitchen, and in general had the most restorative, peaceful time. The owner is kind and helpful and checked in on us. Tesco's, to my surprise, delivers straight to the door (quite an achievement in light of the road!), which means you can do a big shop (including Welsh specialities) to arrive shortly after you do. Snowdonia has a series of stunning landscapes, and this house has enormous charm and character. We would love to be back.

- Julia simon ,

April 2019

Gallestra sits an a amazing location. 1.5miles off the main road into the hills. The cottage is very well equipped and is warm, cosy and inviting. It offers a great break away from phones, internet and tv, taking stock of the views, peace and quiet. There are too many walks to list either from the cottage or a short drive away. Would recommend gallestra for those wanting to take time to breathe

- Rachel W,

September 2018

We had a wonderful holiday at Gallestra, lots of lovely walks straight from the door. This gorgeous old house is so cosy, comfortable and homely, it's beautifully furnished and decorated and is full of character with lots of original features. It's set in the most spectacular scenery, an exceptionally tranquil location, we absolutely loved it here! Thank you Megan!

- Kate W,

August 2018

Wow, wow, wow! Beautiful cottage, stunning location, perfect holiday. Absolutely love this place. It is a gem. Well equipped, cosy sofas, comfy beds. Everything is high quality. Tips - bring lots of firewood for the 3 fires & keep garden gate closed at night as the friendly neighbourhood sheep like to visit. Thank you Megan & UTT.

- Rebecca S,

May 2018

What a truly wonderful place. We have had the most relaxing week at Gallestra. Absolutely the most beautiful location surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. A real retreat. The house is gorgeous and is furnished beautifully. We enjoyed a fabulous family break exploring the area in beautiful Snowdonia. We came away feeling relaxed and refreshed. We are already looking forward to going back.

- Alice G,

October 2017

Yet another fabulous revisit to this very special place - it is our home from home.

- Dawn R,

A beautiful house in an amazing location. A real sanctuary away from the busyness of modern life. Well situated for days out and great walking. A very comfortable and welcoming base for our holiday. Beautifully furnished and well equipped. Megan, the owner, was very welcoming and accommodating to our needs.

- Edward G,

August 2017

Gallestra is set in a very beautiful location with fabulous views and is ideal for exploring both the mountains and the coast. It is simply decorated but has all that's needed, including a good wood burning stove. We were surprised by the beautiful, quiet Sandy beaches nearby - the main point of our holiday was to find some real peace and explore the nearby mountains.

- Anna R,

July 2017

Beautiful cottage in an idyllic and isolated location. Just us and the sheep for miles. We will be back.

- Emma parker ,

June 2017

Superb stay Peace and tranquility Restorative

- Rian T,

Arrived in torrential rain wanting to go home, left in rain never wanting to leave! When we arrived the long single track uphill drive to the cottage was very daunting in heavy rain - there was no tv no video player no internet and no signal - a landline for emergency calls but such a world away from what we are used to - the next day we quickly relaxed and it was heaven - sitting in the garden with just the sound of the trees, birds and sheep. Read books, did some amazing walks straight from the door, made bread just the tonic we needed after a very stressful few months - highly recommended for a get away from it all break, very clean, comfortable and everything you need.

- Susan J,

Absolutely beautiful!

- Miss S,

May 2017

Wow, what can we say, Gallestra is exceptional - the house, the position, the surroundings - sensory overload of breath taking proportions. Visually stunning inside and out, the only noise is nature - wonderful. Loved the sheep and lambs looking in at us through the windows. Well equipped and very comfortable and so many places to sit and relax - we didn't have time to test them all out. We wanted for nothing, except some salt and pepper and not to leave - a return visit a must

- Jane W,

April 2017

We've just had our fourth amazing holiday at Gallestra. The location is unbeatable if you like seclusion in a beautiful setting (mountains and woods), and the house is so cosy. Great for meditation (own woodland with views of Cadair Idris on doorstep!), hiking (Cadair Idris / Llynau Cregennan and others directly from the house), mountain biking (Coed y Brenin is a 20-minute drive) and sea (nearby Barmouth or wonderful beach at Bennar). Very highly recommended.

- Nathan S,

September 2016

A thoroughly enjoyable stay for all four of us. The cottage is well appointed but at the same time sufficiently quirky to make it interesting. Everything worked and was comfortable. The location is isolated and has beautiful countryside literally just outside the door. I would recommend this place.

- Graham rogers ,

August 2016

Wow another fantastic UTT; we have stayed in many over the years and I think this might be our favourite yet. Gallestra is set in such beautiful, dramatic and inspiring scenery, we climbed Cadar Idris right from the door. Such a sense of history and place in these stone walls, you can't help but soak up some of its magic. When the weather turned from Glorious sunshine to howling gales and torrential rain we hunkered down and lit the fire. No TV, Wifi or mobile phone reception makes it feel like a real escape from the daily grind and yet Dolgellau is just down the road for most things you could need and you can be on the beach within 15 mins. What more could you need from a holiday?

- Wendy may ,

Fabulous - splendid isolation. Ten out of ten all round and very comfy beds too!

- Tim B,

A lovely cottage in stunning surroundings. The beds were so comfortable, and what a treat to have proper cotton sheets and bed linen, so many places we stay in have cheap poly-cotton - makes the world of difference.

- Sarah west ,

July 2016

Truly one of the most beautiful places we've ever stayed. Secluded and peaceful location, perfect getaway, amazing views, stunning farmhouse with everything you could need. Perfect for walking straight from the door, with lakes, mountains and beaches all within easy reach. Photos cannot do it justice, you have to be there to appreciate the tranquility and beauty. It was our Cocker Spaniels' first holiday and they had the time of their lives swimming in lakes, paddling in streams and walking all day! Gardens were dog safe and plenty of room. We were sad to leave but will definitely be be back soon!

- Adele H,

June 2016

Gallestra is truly magical but please stay away as we want it all to ourselves !!! It really is a must visit cottage in one of the most beautiful locations I have ever come across. The surrounding area is stunning and Dolgellau is a gem....we will be making this a regular holiday.

- Ben vaughan ,

April 2016

Gallestra is a very special place, and we are repeat visitors! It's a fantastic location, very very peaceful, and a very comfortable place to be - it really does feel like home, we love it!

- Dawn rushen ,

March 2016

This is our second stay at gallestra and it has been every bit as good as first time. Beautiful cottage with absolutely everything you need in the most stunning surroundings. Can't wait to visit again. Thank you so much to Megan.

- Lorraine C,

October 2015

Absolutely brilliant location, stunning views and so quiet and peaceful. You can just start walking from the cottage and you are immediately in a stunning landscape. The cottage itself is very comfortable and well appointed and I would recommend it to anyone seeking a break somewhere quiet and beautiful to recharge the batteries.

- Marilyn G,

August 2015

A fantastic location and cottage, amazing local walks, incredible.

- Stuart M,

June 2015

We stayed 4 nights at Gallestra in April and it was beautiful! It has by far the most stunning location we have ever been in. If you want quiet and solitude and beautiful views, Gallestra is for you. Yet it is only a short 10 minute drive to town. My children (11, 11, and 3) enjoyed watching the lambs frolic and hiking the surrounding hills. The house is very well appointed, with comfortable beds, woods stoves, and a very nice hot shower. We would love to come back here every year! Kristen and Kyle, Maine USA

- Kristen S, York (United States),

We spent a fantastic week at Gallestra in the summer half term holiday. The house is beautiful - fabulous location and really tastefully furnished. We loved the feeling of 'getting away from it all', whilst only being a short distance from Dolgellau. No telly and wi-fi was a real plus! We enjoyed doing lots of cycling and walking from the front door as well as climbing Cader Idris on a gorgeous sunny day. The Mawddach estuary was spectacular, as was the beach at Harlech. Strongly recommend the lovely little cafe, The Blue Lion right in the centre of Harlech for both lunch and afternoon tea - great family run business. We also loved taking the train up to Blaenau Festiniog - Granny and the dog came too - it was a lovely excursion! All in all we had a great time and Gallestra proved to be a fabulous base to explore from, as well as being a cosy retreat to return to. Thanks also to Megan (the owner) and Jen (the housekeeper) who helped us out of an unexpected, tricky situation. I'm sure we'll be back!

- Christian H,

Very relaxing break in a well-equipped and unique cottage in a wonderful location with beautiful views.

- Leslie B,

May 2015

"Thanks for letting us share your beautiful home. We have had a lovely time - this is a special place and we look forward to coming back in a few weeks!" Kath & Steve

July 2014

"...a totally wonderful stay in this fantastic house. Everything was so welcoming - we couldn't get over how wonderfully and comfortably decorated the house is, and the kitchen was incredibly kitted out. We have slept, walked and eaten and it has been fabulously restorative for both of us" Melanie & David

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