Ty Newydd is a house with a view. It has the kind of outdoor location you might dream about, set amidst the stunning, renowned scenery of Snowdonia’s western forests and lakes. This area of the National Park is known locally as the “Lake District”. On your doorstep at Ty Newydd is Llyn Geirionydd. Although fishing isn’t permitted here, you can sail and water ski - bring your own boat, kayak or canoe. Nearby is Llyn Crafnant with its lovely lakeside tearooms, and Llyn Cowlyd (which takes a bit of finding - make sure you pack a map). Yet the owners of Ty Newydd realise that it isn’t always the best of weather for exploring, so they’ve included a full Sky TV service, 50-inch plasma screens and a games room with Playstation 3 to keep you occupied. You won’t be cold here either, with underfloor heating and a lovely log burner for those darker, colder winter nights. The kitchen is highly equipped too.

Llanwrst is the nearest town, just 15 minutes by car through twisting narrow lanes and deep, mysterious forests. The unofficial “capital” of the Conwy Valley, Llanwrst boasts a number of stores selling local produce, and several restaurants including the Meadowsweet and the award-winning Ty Asha Indian restaurant. From Ty Newydd you can explore backroads to Betws-y-Coed, gateway to Snowdonia and the starting point of many wonderful walking trails.