Y Goeden Eirin

The name means 'The Plum Tree' in Welsh, and is the title of a book of short stories by the local writer John Gwilym Jones. This homage indicates the strong cultural interests of John and Eluned Rowlands. Welsh art and books fill their small guest house in a hamlet on the edge of the Snowdonia national park, and guests come every August for Bryn Terfel's music festival nearby. There is much praise: 'Good value.' 'A fine welcome. It is hard to think how things could be improved.' 'Wonderfully situated.' It is very Welsh (bilingual menus) and very green (solar panels, recycling and composting policies; locally sourced organic food). The renovated farm buildings (local granite, slate, beams; decor a mixture of traditional and modern) stand amid rough pasture with views of mountains and sea. There is under-floor heating, Wi-Fi, and a Bechstein grand piano in the dining room, which is open to the public. Aga-cooked dishes, 'wholesome, with the occasional exotic touch', use local and home-grown ingredients. No choice, but prior consultation. 'Excellent' breakfasts. The 'large and bright' bedroom in the main house was liked ('glorious views, beautiful objects, large TV, good-sized bathroom'), and so was a room in the purpose-built annexe ('Arts and Crafts' feel). (OP, and others)