10 cosy retreats in North Wales

Many of you will know that Baa Stool Ltd along with Baa Skool are located in the medieval town of Denbigh in the Vale of Clwyd so we’re rather enthusiastic about North Wales and its wonders! In fact, we’ve been searching for some cosy, comfortable, quaint and sometimes quirky places to stay*, in case you want to come and explore North Wales for yourself. While we haven’t stayed in these places ourselves (so we can’t recommend them personally), they all look attractive and welcoming in their own unique ways. We’ve tried to provide a variety of styles – from luxury glamping to self-catering houses – so that you’ll find something that suits your tastes, needs and budget. So without further ado here’s our 10 cosy retreats in North Wales.

Baa Stool itself is close to a crumbling castle, rolling hills and grazing sheep. It’s a stunning part of North Wales. Denbigh Castle, built by Edward I, can be found on a prominent hill overlooking the market town. And just a few miles down the road lies the medieval town of Ruthin – another market town. Ruthin Castle is now a luxurious hotel, though the original sandstone castle dates back to the 13^th century and was built by Dafydd ap Gruffydd, the brother of Prince Llywelyn ap Gruffudd. The Clwydian Hills form a striking backdrop, attracting hillwalkers from far and wide, as the famous Offa’s Dyke Trail meanders over the range and the highest summit, Moel Famau.

1: Boutique retreats at Trelan Farm, Ruthin

These three gorgeous cabins at Trelan Farm are situated in the foothills of Moel Famau in Denbighshire, surrounded by breath taking views. Close to the towns of Ruthin and Denbigh, and within easy driving distance of the North Wales coast, this is truly a peaceful and relaxing location, ideal for walkers and cyclists.

2: Riverside Cottage, Llangollen

Located in the lively town of Llangollen, Riverside Cottage is two-bedroomed and overlooks the River Dee offers glorious views of the rolling countryside. From here, you can explore the winding Horseshoe Pass and dramatic Dinas Bran Castle, and if you time your holiday correctly, you’ll be able to enjoy Llangollen’s International Eisteddfod – a cultural festival that includes music and dancing from all around the world.

3: Plas Tan Y Graig Guesthouse, Beddgelert

It’s hard to describe the astounding beauty of the Snowdonia National Park; the region extends for 823 square miles and is ideal for walking, climbing, cycling, bird-watching, canoeing and photography. Beddgelert is a chocolate-box town situated in the heart of this breath taking area, and Plas Tan Y Graig Guesthouse is a comfortable B&B sitting right beside the River Glaslyn.

4: Old Mill Holiday Cottages, Flintshire

Nestled in beautiful North Wales countryside with many wonderful attractions to explore.  You have a choice of four holiday cottages at Old Mill, ideal for couples, or families including dog friendly accommodation.  Awarded four stars by Visit Wales and uniquely located within a picturesque mill complex in rural Flintshire – An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the Clwydian Range.

5: Ty Capel, Rhoscolyn, Anglese

This delightful and characterful dog friendly airbnb cottage, located beside Rhoscolyn Chapel, is brilliant for exploring the captivating island of Anglesey with your family. The interior design of Ty Capel is quirky, vintage and cosy – perfect for relaxing in! Situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you’ll love the opportunities to swim, surf and walk on Anglesey’s coastal path.

6: Number 18 Conwy B&B

A bijou B&B in the heart of Conwy town not only set within the Castle walls but situated directly opposite Conwy Castle. Built in the late 1800s the lovely owners have lovingly renovated Number 18 to offer unique en-suite accommodation. Comfortable relaxing, individually decorated rooms with bags of character offering all those luxuries you need when you are away from home. You literally step out of Number 18 to find a great selection of independent shops, pubs, restaurants and galleries to choose from all within a short walk. From Conwy town you have easy access to the seaside, Snowdonia National Park, Anglesey and beyond…

7: Derwas, Abergele:

If you like to holiday in style, Derwas is a charming house, lost in the countryside. With 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, the interior design exudes elegance and comfort. It’s located not far from the North Wales coast, 5 miles from Gwrych Castle (made famous by “I’m a celebrity… get me out of here!”) and the historic town of Conwy with its pretty harbour, walled town, imposing castle and Elizabethan manor.

8: The Bothy, Gelli Newydd, Trefriw

This cosy wooden bothy, built on a farm near Trefriw, is ideal for exploring this tranquil and often forgotten area of Snowdonia. The cottage is compact, but its décor is pleasing and modern. Having one double bedroom, it’s great for a romantic getaway. There are footpaths right on your doorstep, but you can also travel a short distance to enjoy Zip World, mountain-bike trails, woodlands and lakes.

9:  The Cabins, Llangelynin, Conwy

The Cabins at Llangelynin provide adults-only accommodation in a delightful setting – a real escape from the world! Tiny, cosy cabins, with a separate shared shower cabin, can be found in this three-acre wildlife haven. Ten minutes’ drive to the town of Conwy, and on the outskirts of the Snowdonia National Park, this is a wonderful place for one or two adults to really unwind.

9:  The Cabins, Llangelynin, Conwy

We’ve included this last location, not because of its eye-catching décor or facilities, but because of its truly unique setting. This little wooden toll-keeper’s house is built on a Grade 2 listed wooden toll bridge that crosses the Mawddach Estuary. Ideal for couples or solo adventurers, the house is right on the Mawddach cycle trail. The scenery is absolutely stunning in this area, perfect for bird-watchers, and not far from the foothills of Cader Idris.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this small sample of cosy cottages, cabins, guest houses and retreats. Welcome to North Wales and our top 10 cosy retreats! Oh and if you decide to come and visit and you also love to paddleboard too here’s 8 great places to try.

*Our 10 cosy retreats in North Wales have been selected at random and Baa Stool Ltd has received no reward, financial or otherwise, for mentioning them.