Gellilwyd Fach

Gellilwyd Fach is situated in the foothills of the Cader Idris mountain range and, although secluded, has close proximity to a wide range of amenities. From your holiday cottage Dolgellau - a picturesque market town in southern Snowdonia, with its impressive architecture, is easily accessible and within walking distance along a scenic 1.7 mile country lane. Dolgellau also happens to be home to more than 200 listed buildings - more than any other town in Wales.

During your stay at Gellilwyd Fach holiday cottage Dolgellau will provide you with all the amenities you need. This includes excellent restaurants, cafes, shops and pubs, as well as banks and supermarkets, a local butchers, grocer, bakeries and chemist. Amongst the highly recommended restaurants are Meirionnydd and the Royal Ship in Dolgellau town centre, as well as the Stakehouse and Tafarn y Gader tapas bar. Outside town, Bwyty Mawddach Restaurant in Llanelltyd (3.4 miles) is also worth a visit whilst Indiana Cuisine in Fairbourne (10 miles) offers an authentic Indian fine dining experience. For a relaxed, social night out, head to Gwin Dylanwad Wine Bar or if a pint is your preference, Royal Ship in the town centre is recommended. There are other restaurants and pubs that could also be listed; the truth is, you will be spoilt for choice.

If you love the outdoors, the Dolgellau area of Snowdonia will deliver on this front as well. It boasts an extensive range of footpaths, signposted walks and cycle trails to suit all abilities. In addition to the obvious challenge of Cader Idris, right on your doorstep, Dolgellau is also the starting point of the Mawddach Trail (walking and cycle route to the beautiful Mawddach Estuary and Barmouth on the coast). The world renowned Mountain Biking Centre at Coed y Brenin is also within 10 miles and there are 2 glorious sandy beaches at Fairbourne (10 miles) and Barmouth (12 miles).

Other popular attractions in the area include Llechwedd Slate Caverns and Zip World at Blaenau Ffestiniog (24 miles), which is also home to the largest underground trampoline in Europe. King Arthur's Labyrinth, Corris Craft Centre and the Centre for Alternative Technology offer great days out whilst 'Abaty Cymer' Abbey and Harlech Castle’s World Heritage site are both significant heritage attractions. Most of Wales’ narrow gauge railways are also located in this area, including Talyllyn narrow gauge railway and the Blaenau Ffestiniog to Porthmadog line. If you prefer to travel on water, the National White Water Rafting Centre near Bala will cater for your needs. It should also be mentioned that there are RSPB Reserves and two Osprey Nest viewing hides nearby.

Walking

• Cader Idris – 3 main routes starting from Dolgellau (from the doorstep), Minffordd (4.5 miles) and Abergynolwyn (13 miles).
• Mawddach Trail – Dolgellau - suitable for all ages – walkers, cyclists and wheelchair users. 1.7 mile
• Precipice Walk – Llanfachreth - suitable for all ages. 3.5 miles from your cottage
• New Precipice Walk – Llanelltyd - suitable for all ages. 3.5 miles
• Torrent Walk – Brithdir - moderate leisure walk approx 2½ miles along the river. 5 miles
• Panorama Walk – Barmouth - suitable for all ages. 12 miles

Cycling

• The Mawddach Trail – As above, 1.7 mile
• Coed-y-Brenin Mountain Biking Centre – Suitable routes for all ages. 10 miles

Golf

• Harlech Golf Club - Royal St. Davids - 18 hole golf course. 20 miles

Fishing

• From river fishing to Gwernan Lake and Llyn Cynwch, there are a range of opportunities to go fishing in the Dolgellau area – suitable options for all ages.

Horse riding

• Bwlchgwyn Pony Trekking Centre - suitable for anyone over 4yrs. 8 miles

Beaches

• Fairbourne Beach – sandy beach. 10 miles
• Barmouth Beach – long, sandy beach with Blue Flag award. 12 miles

Water sports

• Bala Lake – sailing, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, raft building etc. 18 miles
• National White Water Centre, Canolfan Tryweryn – White Water Rafting, Kayaking & Canoeing. 22 miles