Cefn-yr-efail in Garndolbenmaen

"So, we booked the cottage for a party of seven, all family. The pictures are accurate but unfortunately we were disappointed by the small things which would have made this a fab holiday. I am only reviewing this way as I am hoping that these things will be improved by the owner and will help future guests! The location is great and the views from the cottage are lovely! The kitchen is well equipped and has all the mod cons, however the beds and bedding are very tired, the double in the attic room is especially worn out and my daughter and son in law said they could feel every spring. The quilts and pillows are absolutely ancient and very worn out, (see pictures) there is a note in the cottage asking to strip the beds which were used and when I did I had to take the pictures which I'm posting! These things are not expensive to replace and for the cost of the cottage should be done immediately. The cleaning of the cottage also leaves something to be desired especially the En-suite bathroom (see pictures) The floors are very creaky and noisy and as soon as anyone steps out of bed the entire house hold is awake!"

Reviewed by Carolbentley on 18/06/2019

"Fantastic location and within easy reach of beaches, local pubs and attractions. We were met by Gwyn who is lovely and very welcoming, and the cottage itself was superbly laid out and although we were only a party of 4 I think even 8 here would find the place very generously sized. It is dog friendly and our collie was quite safely contained with the garden areas and could be left to look after himself with no concerns. I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a great place to stay in the area and we will definitely be back."

Reviewed by Peter H on 20/09/2018

"We have sadly just returned from a week at this property,we did not want to leave and I still wish I was back there!! It is a beautiful big house in a stunning quiet location. Gwyn who looks after the property is a true gentlemen, he brought us fresh eggs on our arrival day and was on hand if ever we needed anything even extending his kindness to picking up me and the husband when we got stranded in bedgellert after a walk went wrong. The area is amazing, loads to do all around no matter what you want to do-we had 3 great days walking and spent then other 4 doing tourist things such as black rock sands, Harlech, bangor and criccieth and there is still plenty more we plan on returning to do. All in all we had a fantastic holiday and we very much plan on returning in the future. Highly recommend and once again thanks gwyn hope to see you again soon. "

Reviewed by Jemma S on 14/05/2018

"/01/17.This is the third time we have stopped in this beautifully equipped barn/cottage For my husbands Birthday weekends. The Owners Father Gwyn is a true Gentleman brings you fresh eggs and some beautiful stories of the local area love chatting to him! The c;ottage/Barn is always clean on arrival to the highest of standards! with lots of added extras. Best nights sleep ever in this peaceful retreat just outside Porthmadog . Very spacious living room dinning area in fact spacious throughout! Best equipped kitchen in any Cottage /Barn rental we have ever stopped in throughout the U.K. Amazing utility room washer dryer another fridge /freezer iron ironing board.mop brush hoover . Comfortable and relaxing just what we needed nice winter break after the mad rush of Christmas. Off road parking. Safe enclosed garden area . Even our dog loves it here lots of country lane walks! Already booked for next year! Highly recommended so what you waiting for for get booking! Go for midnight walk and check out them star's!! Thank you & See you again next year! Kind Regards Chel"

Reviewed by u2bono4ever on 01/02/2017

"Me and my family visited this barn, and it was just what we were after. Great location right near portmadog, criccieth but a in a nice secluded location in the hills offering a perfect retreat. It has everything you'll need in a holiday home and is presented to a high standard. The owners father lives opposite and is very welcoming, offering fresh eggs on arrival. A nice touch. We enjoyed our stay and will defiantly be returning as in my opinion there is no better base to explore North Wales."

Reviewed by Graham A on 08/01/2017

"We have stayed at this cottage now for the 3rd time it is a amazing place couldnt fault it. The views are beautiful and the owners father is lovely and very helpful we had a fantastic christmas there the house was very luxurious and spacious. We are very much looking forward to another christmas this year. Would recommend this highly to anyone was the perfect break just what we all needed"

Reviewed by clairecooper1984 on 06/01/2017

"We booked this cottage as it was a special family birthday and the property description and visitor reviews suggested it was an exceptional place to stay. The owners father who lives next door is delightful and was very welcoming and presented us with a dozen fresh eggs on arrival. He did say that internally it needs some painting and that the dining chairs could do with replacing. Clearly when the property was first renovated it must have been beautiful and luxurious. However, we found it requiring quite a bit of TLC, the Jacuzzi, from what we could tell in the visitor book had not been working for several weeks and the toilet seat in en-suite was broken. The mattress covers on two of the the 3 double beds were stained as were a number of pillows which had no pillow protectors on them, my son in law had to sleep in a single bed for the duration of the holiday as he felt a spring coming through one of the upstairs double beds and the down stairs double bed mattress was worn and torn. Maybe our standards are too high, but as lovely as the location is and the welcome we received we would unfortunately not book this again or recommend it to friends unless it had some money spent on the property internally."

Reviewed by Tre-Nightsky1 on 03/10/2016

"My family and my dog had a lovely stay in Cefn-Yr-Efail. The owner was so welcoming and kind, and the house was lovely and so big (the pictures do not show how large the rooms are). We had a lovely time exploring the surrounding area and would definitely recommend this cottage to everyone."

Reviewed by Miss Kerry on 24/06/2016

"What a great place to stay. Well laid out inside with plenty of space and a really good heating system. Lovely views to the North. Only a couple of miles to two great pubs and a good chip shop all at Tremadog. Gwyn gave us a warm welcome............and even supplied some eggs, thank you. Good place to stay for Porthmadog (Welsh Highland and Ffestiniog Railways), Ciccieth, Llyn Peninsula, Beddgelert and Snowdon. Would definitely stay again."

Reviewed by Richard H on 18/03/2016

"The cottage was one, if not the best we have rented, the group were delighted. Walking from the venue was easy with a lake/reservoir and an old slate mill to explore. Porthmadog is easy to reach only a couple of miles away. We will definitely be looking to come back again."

Reviewed by Mr Ashington on 08/03/2016

"Loved this beautiful place, it exceeded our expectations. All rooms were huge, clean, very comfortable and we had an excellent stay. "

Reviewed by Mrs Mccarthy on 22/09/2015

"Lovely quiet spot, just a few cottages close by. It was lovely to sit out on the decking in the evenings, with a glass of wine, enjoying the scenery and setting sun. Very comfortable, spacious and clean cottage."

Reviewed by Ms Gwinnutt on 12/07/2015

"The scenery around the cottage is stunning and is a great base for exploring the area. The cottage was very spacious, warm and comfortable. The jacuzzi bath was very relaxing after long walks with the dog. We will definitely be returning."

Reviewed by Mrs Rimmer on 16/03/2015

"The house was more than perfect!"

Reviewed by Mrs Gibson on 03/02/2015

"Went with friends for New Year. The cottage was spacious for 8 adults and because of this we ate in more than we had anticipated. The house was in a fab location with beautiful views all around but yet close enough to amenities."

Reviewed by Mrs Jones on 04/01/2015

"Cottage was very spacious and comfortable and also in an excellent location for exploring the area. The owner was very helpful and amenable. All in all we had a fantastic holiday, weather was great and the kids loved the cottage too. We would recommend this cottage to our friends."

Reviewed by Mr Jenkins on 21/09/2014

"Beautiful setting, so spacious, plenty of off road parking, great for walking and not a long driving distance to the shops or beach. Having the lovely owner on hand to welcome you in and to help you with any questions. We went with our children and partners and grandchildren they all loved it and so did we. Thank you!"

Reviewed by Mrs Royle on 17/08/2014

"Lovely cottage with excellent views. Good location. Very peaceful. Enclosed garden was good for children. Would definitely stay there again."

Reviewed by Mrs Moulden on 22/06/2014

"The house was excellent, I could not fault it, the photos do not do it justice. Every room in the house is so spacious and comfortable. We also loved where the house was situated, with every town within reach."

Reviewed by Mrs Westmoreland on 11/05/2014

"The cottage is amazing, better than the pictures showed, didn't think that was possible! Lovely views from the cottage! Great location I would recommend this cottage to anyone! "

Reviewed by Miss Lewis on 05/04/2014

"We liked the tranquillity of the cottage, the sheep in the nearby field, the helpfulness of the owner, the space - both inside and out! It was close to Porthmadog and was the perfect location to visit Portmeirion, beaches, castles and Snowdon! Wonderful!"

Reviewed by Miss Lord on 24/03/2014

"We loved the barn. It was close to all amenities. Cannot wait to go back."

Reviewed by Mrs Nixon on 29/10/2013

"Superb location. Excellent property. We loved it."

Reviewed by Mr Pitts on 23/09/2013

"A pleasant property, quiet and peaceful, with lovely scenic views."

Reviewed by Mrs Neilson on 30/05/2013

"The house was amazing, the views were beautiful. We went with our children and their spouses it was the perfect getaway, nothing was too far away and you could do as much or as little as you wanted. The house was lovely and big so although there was eight of us it never seemed crowded. The caretaker was very friendly and helpful and just a couple of minutes in the car to Porthmadog for groceries, pub etc. Will be back."

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 22/05/2013

"Everything about this cottage was perfect. It was beautifully furnished and such a great size. We stayed here for a family get together with 8 adults. Kitchen and dining area very spacious and great for socialising. Utility room to wash and dry our hiking gear. A fabulous downstairs bathroom and a great living room with a huge TV. Lovely area outside - not warm enough for us to sit outside but can imagine how nice it would be in summer. I took so many things I simply didn't need so it was like being home from home. Very clean and tidy upon arrival. would definitely go again. Gwynn, the owners son was extremely friendly and informative. It was nice to see the photos of how the barn was developed."

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 18/04/2013

"Beautiful house, beautiful views, easy access to attractions. The caretaker was very friendly and helpful. This house is in the perfect location, no matter what type of holiday you're looking for, will be returning next year."

Reviewed by Mrs Lewis on 25/03/2013

"The owner was very friendly and helpful. The location was quite good, close to shops and beaches. Good for walking and cycling. We would certainly recommend it to anyone. "

Reviewed by Mr Davies on 25/02/2013

"A warm "home from home" which was clean and welcoming on arrival. We arrived in the dark (mid October) and found the property easily after receiving good directions from the property owner. The house was warm and inviting with lots of space for four adults and two teenage children. We thoroughly enjoyed using the house as a base to explore mid Wales and found it very welcoming to return to after a long day out and about! The beds were clean and comfortable and the kitchen was equipped with all the usual items plus a few extras like a coffee maker. A short (10 mins approx) drive to Porthmadog provided a supermarket and lots of local businesses for food, gifts, local take aways and some interesting shops to browse through. Market day was Friday with approx 18 to 20 stalls. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Cefn-yr-efail and would recommend the property to anyone who has a larger party of travellers!"

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 07/12/2012

"The amount of space inside the house and the fantastic heating system. The owner was also very attentive and called round to make sure everything was to our liking. Only a 10 minute drive to the centre of Porthmadog."

Reviewed by Mr Nardone on 19/11/2012

"Yet another fantastic stay at this wonderful cottage, it really did feel like coming home. Our host was brilliant and the eggs were a nice touch. A great time was had by all, great cottage, great location, great scenery!"

Reviewed by Mr Colley on 29/10/2012

"We stayed at this house for a week with friends and children. We had typical welsh weather but this didn't seem to matter. We cooked, played games, snuggled up and watched films. Night times were so cosy. Once we'd put the kids to bed, we cracked open the wine, relaxed, chatted and popped the Pringles. One of the evenings we had a chinese takeaway from Portmafog town 5 minutes away. When the sun came out it was time to head to Black Rock sands with the buckets and spades. Harlech castle is 20 minutes away and Portmerion 10 minutes. Sometimes it was just nice to open the gate and walk up the quiet lanes outside the house. The views were beautiful, especially from the king sized bedroom. The kitchen is perfect for a larger group, it's modern and lush with a large table seating 6-8. We did our washing at the property so the suitcase was full of nice clean washing to take home. There is a double bedroom and a very large bathroom/shower/toilet on the ground floor should guests have disabilities."

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 06/09/2012

"We liked the friendliness and helpfulness of the property's caretaker, and the locality of the property to all of the major Snowdonia attractions. We also liked the overall quality and standard of the property itself, and the information given prior to the holiday."

Reviewed by Mr Morse on 30/07/2012

"A beautiful clean modern cottage."

Reviewed by Mrs Jordan on 26/07/2012

"The location of the property was just what we hoped for. The layout of the property was brilliant for us as there were 3 generations on holiday together. It was close to Porthmadog for the beaches, golf course and shopping but we enjoyed the peace and quiet of the countryside."

Reviewed by Mrs Abell on 25/07/2012

"We had such an amazing week with our friends and small children. Our host was lovely and friendly. It felt like a home from home only better!"

Reviewed by Mrs Simkiss on 22/07/2012

"The space the cottage provided. The quality of the furniture and fittings. The friendly welcome. A helpful and accommodating manager on hand."

Reviewed by Mrs Kenworthy on 17/06/2012

"This is a beautifully decorated and furnished large holiday home in a fantastic location. The help we got before arriving, and the welcome we received was excellent - there was a pint of milk waiting for us and the house was warm and welcoming. The younger members of the group really appreciated the huge t.v. and comfortable sofas,we loved the whirlpool bath. Lovely views all around, with good walking on the doorstep and if you're lucky with the weather, perfect for stargazing. Close to the beaches and attractions of North Wales including Portmeirion only 10 minutes drive away. We will definitely stay there again, there is so much more to see and do in the area and it's a great house to come home to after a busy day. As the building is old it did creak a bit during the night as it settled, but we think that this was because of the heating (we were there in January) and probably wouldn't be a problem in the summer."

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 03/03/2012

"Fantastic cottage in a brilliant location, with ruins, mountains and quarries all within walking distance. The owner was extremely welcoming and helpful and we couldn't fault this holiday at all. The nicest place I've ever stayed by far."

Reviewed by Mr Cooke on 12/02/2012

"We really enjoyed the secluded location, with easy access to some beautiful areas. The comfortable living room and enormous T.V. was a hit with the kids. The caretaker was on hand to help us, and came in to switch on the lights before we arrived. The bottle of milk which he provided in case we forgot was a particularly nice touch."

Reviewed by Mrs Nicholls on 22/01/2012

"The six of us visited in October 2011. As soon as we opend the door we were all very suprised on how clean and modern the barn converion was. We later met the owner and found him to be very helpfull. I would not hesitate on reccommending this property to anyone! A+++ all the way!!!"

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 04/12/2011

"The Holiday provided a good opportunity to find out about North Wales which was unknown to several in our party i.e. Snowdon, Betsy-Coed, the Slate caverns, Ospreys, the beauty of North Wales and the excellence of the beaches. The Home wasm very good with great information and help from our Host."

Reviewed by bob hooper on 03/12/2011

"First time using Sykes and it was a success. All of the children had a great time, there was plenty of space in the house and it had everything for a big family holiday home."

Reviewed by Ms Turner on 16/11/2011

"Cefn-Yr-Efail is a superb place to stay and we had a great time. The place was furnished to a high standard and had everything we needed."

Reviewed by Mr Thompson on 10/10/2011

"We received a warm welcome from the owner's father. Lovely decor and attention to all comforts in the cottage. The cottage was stylish, warm and as good as home for our stay. The views and location were exceptional. Our two dogs were welcomed and the garden was safe and dog-proof so we had no worries of escape! "

Reviewed by Mrs Pittwood on 25/09/2011

"Our holiday was fantastic and we would love to stay there again."

Reviewed by Mr Bennett on 13/09/2011

"The owner was very friendly and helpful. The property was very spacious, clean and beautifully situated. We will certainly use your company again and hopefully visit this property again."

Reviewed by Mrs Bell on 11/07/2011

"Perfect house and location for a family get together. Owner was very friendly and helpful."

Reviewed by Mrs Luscombe on 13/06/2011

"Our holiday was excellent, the cottage was absolutely immaculate. It's a brilliant location for seeing this part of Wales and even if you stayed indoors there are fantastic views of the countryside and mountains from the windows."

Reviewed by Mrs Thompson on 17/05/2011

"Fantastic house, really enjoyed our stay. It was perfect for our needs - we stayed in and cooked each night as we had an 18 month old toddler with us (who loved all the space). The landlord was very nice; left milk, fruit, etc for us which was appreciated. Overall, excellent standard. "

Reviewed by Miss Reddington on 21/03/2011

"Lovely location. Countryside walks from the door and beach about 5 mins in the car. Comfortable cottage with friendly owner. "

Reviewed by Newton on 21/02/2011

"This house is AMAZING! The photos do not do it justice. It is much bigger than it looks and much more luxurious! Great value too."

Reviewed by Mrs Young on 29/11/2010

"Excellent cottage, superb decor - very modern but very cosy and homely at the same time. Excellent location, away from it all but close enough to all amenities and attractions."

Reviewed by Mr Colley on 19/10/2010