Y Stabal | Criccieth | Bryn Hywel | Self Catering Holiday Cottage

3.9★

5 Guests
3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Pets Yes
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Features

Off road parking
Open fire
Garden / Patio
Cot available
Highchair available
Dishwasher
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

45 Customer Review(s)

Malik
September 2024

“Great views responsive host”

- Malik, September 2024
Josh March 2024

“Roof in living rook leaked for hours after having a shower owners advise was don't use the shower.”

Put a complaint in at syke cottages heard nothing back Nice location but needs tlc No soap in bathrooms Definitely needs a clean

- Josh, March 2024
Graham September 2023

“Despite all of the points below we really enjoyed our stay at Y Stabal and the cottage provided what we needed.”

If you book knowing these points in advance, adjust expectations, and go out of the prime cost period it can provide a warm dry base for a pleasant holiday. We were lucky and caught the week of summer, if it had been wet the lack of internet access and inability to stream movies would have been more irritating. Take an old laptop and some DVDs with you, they saved the day entertainment wise for us. Cottage has a WiFi hub but "no internet access", which would be a problem if bad weather kept you indoors. Mobile 4G signal was available but only outside the cottage, so again this is weather dependent. It is generally in need of a bit of TLC, but on the plus side you are not scared of accidentally scratching or chipping the walls or breaking one of the fittings. The door to the garden would only lock if door lifted as you close it. The picnic table in the garden had one of the 4 seats broken and tied/marked with pink washing line. The outdoor paving slabs are in places broken, uneven, and rock a bit when stepped on. There is comfortable parking for 2 cars, and 3 would be possible. There is only one set of keys though. The shower tray did not drain fast enough and you had to be careful to avoid overflows, but the shower was ok otherwise. There is only one small two slot toaster, the bread I brought did not fit in it and I had to toast each end of the slices separately. One of the kitchen dining table legs fell off by itself. Some of the kitchen chair assembly bolts were loose and rattly, but chairs ok once finger tightened. Owner was easy to contact via text and notified of some of these as we found them, he came mid week and fixed a curtain rail that had broken the week before, he said he would be up there again at the weekend to check some of the other items. We found the cottage to be missing things like extra toilet rolls, kitchen handwash (practically empty), washing up liquid, dish cloths/pads, dishwasher tabs, bin bags, and there were no extra blankets in case of cold weather. There was no property manual, just a single sheet with WiFi password and instructions for used linen at end of week. We had no idea how to adjust the heating, not that we really needed to, but the owner, Huw, did say text him any questions and he seemed quite approachable. There are no books/games/DVDs. There is no DVD player. The wall mounted LG TV (with one HDMI socket) is approx 32" and looks very small if you dont move the sofa nearer to it. We didnt need to use the washing machine in the shed so cannot advise on its condition/usability. The cottage has obviously been used a lot and is showing signs of wear/tear, and is in need of a complete refit to command top price, but it has provided us with a perfectly usable base for a week's cycling and walking in a very nice area. The view of the mountains and Moel Hebog from the garden is superb. If the people staying in the adjoining property are quiet and without young children the garden is a pleasant place to hang out. We could of done with some lounger chairs, and ended up taking kitchen/dining chairs outside to sit on. There is noise from the nearby main road, but you can still hear the sheep calling to each other and the birds twittering. With the roof vents open at night the traffic noise is a constant and noticeable drone however.

- Graham, September 2023
Richard August 2023

“The property is charming and nicely situated but I am afraid that we were very disappointed.”

Despite phoning the owner 10 times and leaving 4 messages he never replied to tell us where to find the keys! Luckily, the people in the adjacent property showed us. Inside, the house had cobwebs everywhere and I removed about 20 spiders. Most of the cutlery was dirty, as was much of the crockery, some of the cookware and the oven tray. The utensils were basic and limited - for example there was only one teaspoon. Also, there were no instructions on how to use the appliances or heating system, various things were broken, like toilet roll holders and towel rails, chairs were loose and wobbly, and the property needed repainting badly in places. It felt like the owner just wanted to take the money and was not interested in providing a good experience for the guests. At over £1,000 for seven days I feel very shortchanged. Not sure whether I will use Sykes again after this experience.

- Richard, August 2023
Fiona August 2023

“Lovely cottage with everything that you need for a stay in Wales.”

The scenery was stunning and we were lucky with the weather. The cottage makes an excellent base for exploring and then come back for a meal and relaxing evening. Nice outside space safe for both children and our dog. We really enjoyed our stay

- Fiona, August 2023
Alex June 2023

“Excellent location and value for money.”

Quite basic - we had to bring all the essentials. Due to being on a farm and in the countryside there was lots flies about as to be expected. The location is really great and has stunning views on snowdonia and only 10 mins from Portmadog. Great to find a lovely dog friendly place. The wildlife was lovely, several house martins nesting around the property too.

- Alex, June 2023
Rachel April 2023

“Great spot and lovely cottage.”

Very basic you need to take everything, no bath mats, hand soap, loo roll etc… A few things were broken including the lock on the front door so we were either locked in or out, had to use the back door. Furniture in the bedrooms wasn’t usable. However, beds were comfortable, it was clean and the views were amazing.

- Rachel, April 2023

Thank you for your feedback and we are pleased that you enjoyed your stay. The lock on the front door is being replaced this week and we apologise for any inconvenience. Property Owner
Sharon September 2022

“I found the cottage very comfortable and exactly how it was advertised.”

The beds were super comfortable and bathroom/toilets were spotless. I would return in a heartbeat. Finally, the scenery was beautiful which is one of the cottage’s best features.

- Sharon, September 2022
Steven September 2022

“Excellent cottage.”

Everything you could ask for, in a wonderful setting and a lovely area to visit

- Steven, September 2022
Becky August 2022

“We had such a lovely time staying here.”

It’s a brilliant location and a lovely building set in acres of farm land. The cottage was lovely and had everything we needed. However, you need to have at look at your cleaner. Whilst it wasn’t dirty as such, extra care is needed. The cottage was inundated with spiders and cobwebs in ever room. I spent the first two days with the hoover getting rid of them. Whilst we appreciate the character of the cottage the extent of the cobwebs was quite unacceptable. We will however most probably return as for us it wasn’t a deal breaker but I would suggest that you give it a good fettle. The road below the cottage is also very noisy with traffic all through the night so because of the hot weather it wasn’t the most peaceful night. The bathrooms were very clean. Could do with some more comfortable garden furniture. Having said all this we had the best time and would most likely return. Thank you for enabling us to make memories.

- Becky, August 2022
Peter July 2022

“A lovely property in a great location.”

Beautiful views of the mountains. Stayed a week and found plenty to do without driving for more than half an hour.

- Peter, July 2022
Darren September 2021

“Me, my partner and dog had a lovely stay at this property.”

Stunning views of the mountains. Only a few mins to the lovely coast, close to many amenities and things to do. The property has a good layout with a nice log burner with a cosy feel to the living room with comfy sofas. The only thing we would like to point out is the lower fence at the bottom of the garden that joins to the adjoining barn. Some dogs could jump over into the other garden potentially causing problems. Apart from that this property is definitely worth staying in and we will be returning. Thanks for a lovely stay and great memories.

- Darren, September 2021
Rosie July 2021

“We had a brilliant holiday, location great and cottage very comfortable.”

We hope to return!

- Rosie, July 2021
Mark June 2021

“Cottage was as advertised, good basic level of accomodation.”

A slightly more comfortable newer mattress on the double bed would have been appreciated. A few more finishing touches and the cottage could be advertised as luxury accomodation. Attention to fencing in ther garden required, otherwise nothing to stop a dog straying into the garden of the adjoining barn..

- Mark, June 2021
Sarah August 2020

“One of the toilets was blocked upon our arrival.”

The shower in the en suite leaked into the lounge downstairs (not a lot but...) The beds weren't that comfortable - very creaky. Just felt like the whole place was beautiful in the pictures but just needed a little TLC to get it back up to scratch. However we would stay there again!

- Sarah, August 2020

Many thanks for your feedback. I am very sorry to hear that the toilet was blocked on your arrival as we have never had this issue before and we didn't hear about this until we received you feedback. There have been a number of updates at the property since your stay, one of the double beds has been replaced with two new single beds, two new sofas and new photos will be on the website shortly Property Owner
Stephen August 2020

“The cottage was in a beautiful area at the base of Snowdonia national park, and did have all the facilities which were advertised.”

It did however let itself down in several areas. 2 out of the 3 beds were falling to pieces, as were some of the other items of furniture, and a deep clean of the whole cottage was in need. WiFi was advertised, and 5 years ago it wouldn't have been a big deal, but nowadays it's considered an absolute must. It was woefully inadequate for today's needs. Also because I couldn't find things to do on the internet due to poor connection, there wasn't any 'tourist information' in the cottage. Every other place I've stayed has had at least something there. Sykes have been terrible this time. No way of phoning the company at all, so I sent 5 emails before the holiday requesting several times to cancel due to the covid pandemic, and my financial situation being self employed. Sykes ignored every single one, but were quick to withdraw the money in full, despite what I had sent them, and then stated they only received my last email, and totally lacking in any empathy whatsoever. Also the feedback email was received immediately after the holiday. I have proof that I've sent each email, all to the same address. It's a poor business model, and disgusting behaviour for any company which I have used before. I won't be using Sykes ever again!!!!

- Stephen, August 2020
Nic September 2019

“Brilliant location and an excellent barn conversion.”

Would definitively recommend.

- Nic, September 2019
Jai September 2019

“My family and I stayed at Ymylch Bach cottages for a holiday in Snowdonia.”

It was a nice size for a family of 4 adults, plus a toddler and a small dog. The views were great, especially the hills surrounding and the sheep in nearby fields. There were 3 toilets (1 downstairs) plus an ensuite shower and separate bathroom, so ideal for a small family. We did unfortunately have a few irritating issues. We had very little hot water and ended up with cold showers for all but 1 day of the holiday, and the owner was quite unresponsive when we contacted them. We also had to give the downstairs a clean as there were a lot of cobwebs and dust throughout. It's a shame as with some regular maintenance and TLC, I'd have happily given this a glowing review.

- Jai, September 2019
John June 2019

“Cottage is great and in a lovely location.”

Also great position apropos road links to the places you are likely to want to visit. It would have been nice if the owner had dropped in at some point just to say "Hello" It would have been nice if there were some soap and washing up liquid provided - you don't realise until later on that they are not there. Would recommend

- John, June 2019
Linda September 2018

“THIS COTTAGE WAS SHODDY, UNCOMFORTABLE AND DIRTY IN AREAS TO THE EXTENT THAT WE RETURNED HOME AFTER 3 NIGHTS AS OPPOSED TO 6 NIGHTS.”

THERE WAS COBWEBS AND SPIDERS IN MANY AREAS OF THE COTTAGE THAT HAD OBVIOUSLEY BEEN THERE FOR A WHILE.THE PAINTWORK WAS MARKED AND DIRTY IN SOME OF THE ROOMS.THE WINDOW IN LOUNGE HAD A BROKEN HANDLE AND THERE WAS A GAP SO THAT IT LET IN A COLD DRAUGHT. THE MAIN BATHROOM HAD PAINT FALLEN FROM THE WALLS REVEALING BARE PLASTER. LIGHT BULBS IN SOME AREAS WERE NOT WORKING ALONG WITH THE MICROWAVE.THE DINING TABLE IS SCRATCHED EXCESSIVLY AND DEFINATLEY SEEN BETTER DAYS. THE SMALL FREEZER IS PLACED IN A DIRTY CUPBOARD IN THE LOUNGE AND WAS UNEVEN SO IT WOBBLED WHEN OPENING AND CLOSING. THERE IS NO WASHING MACHINE OR DRYER EVEN THOUGH THERE IS AMPLE SPACE IN DOWNSTAIRS TOILET.THE SOFA IN THE LOUNGE WAS UNCOMFORTABLE AND DIRTY. THE 2 DOUBLE BEDS WHERE VERY LOW IN HEIGHT AND OF POOR QUALITY AS WELL AS EXCEPTIONALLY UNCOMFORTABLE. ONE DOUBLE YOU CAN NOT WALK EITHER SIDE OF SO HAVE TO CLIMB ONTO IT TO GET IN FROM THE BOTTOM. THE HOT WATER WAS NOT WORKING CORRECTLY ON OUR ARRIVAL HOWEVER A REPAIR MAN ARRIVED ON OUR FIRST DAY THAT WE WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF SO DISRUPTED US FOR AT LEAST AN HOUR ( SURELY THIS COULD HAVE BEEN SORTED BEFORE OUR ARRIVAL IF THE LANDLORD WAS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM.) THE ONLY PLUS WE COULD COMMENT ON IS THE LOCATION PROVIDES WONDERFUL SCENERY. A VERY DISAPPOINTING EXPERIENCE !!!!

- Linda, September 2018
Fiona July 2018

“Absolutely fabulous location.”

Great for exploring the beautiful countryside .Very relaxing.

- Fiona, July 2018
Kevin June 2018

“We had a great time helped by wonderful weather.”

The cottage is in a great location and suited us for space and facilities. The hot water system did not work well for us but we reported this to the owner. Overall clean and fine for us good kitchen. Thanks

- Kevin, June 2018
Joseph February 2018

“This is a lovely property in an excellent location.”

There are loads of walks and cycleways from the property, there are supermarkets 5 mins away and its very convenient for Llanberis, Snowdon, Portmeirion etc etc. We had a very cold week in February but were were very 'toasty' in the property with the lovey wood burner and underfloor heating. I would book this property again.

- Joseph, February 2018
David August 2016

“Routine maintenance checks by the owner/caretaker were not efficient.”

Everywhere was very clean but many light bulbs were not working and the spares box contained none of the correct fittings (various) A note was left by us to this effect. One downstairs window had a broken catch, leaving the premises insecure. A Guests Welcome Booklet would be useful clarifying how to operate the heating and cooker, local recycling requirements, etc. A maintenance book for guests to update would be sensible because it is clear from the Visitors Book that previous guests' comments had not been acted upon in a timely manner. Despite the above negative comments, we were very pleased with everything else. Quality of furnishings was excellent, underfloor heating an excellent facility and the showers were great.

- David, August 2016
Charlotte May 2016

“The location of the property was fantastic and the views surrounding the property were amazing.”

The house was clean and tidy and I loved the fact that we were able to bring along our dog too. We will definitely be returning!

- Charlotte, May 2016
Sonya April 2016

“A beautiful cottage in fabulous surroundings, I couldn't fault anything!”

- Sonya, April 2016
Yvonne July 2011

“Very well situated for exploring Snowdonia and Lleyn peninsula, close to the coast and shops/pubs within easy reach.”

Very pleasant and peaceful location. Highly recommended for families or couples.

- Yvonne, July 2011
Jean April 2011

“It was a fabulous time, the property was great and views spectacular!”

First time renting with Sykes and over all the experience was excellent!

- Jean, April 2011
Marcus February 2011

“The location was easily accessible yet quiet and remote.”

The cottage was very warm. The surrounding area was rugged and beautiful with lots of dramatic walks and quaint villages. We enjoyed the slate mines and major castles.

- Marcus, February 2011
Sharon August 2010

“A beautiful cottage in an amazing location.”

Fantastic views from the property. There was so much to do in this area of Wales you couldn't possibly do justice to it all in a week - beach, mountains, castles to name but a few things. We'll try to go back soon. Loved the holiday.

- Sharon, August 2010
Paul July 2010

“The building and the location was excellent.”

- Paul, July 2010
Chris May 2010

“Beautiful location, very conveniently located for all North Wales finest attractions and in sight of Snowdon.”

High specification accommodation with friendly owner on hand.

- Chris, May 2010
Deborah May 2010

“Lovely modern cottage, loved the skylight windows and furnishings.”

Brilliant location for getting to Snowdon and the beaches.

- Deborah, May 2010
Richard February 2010

“Great property with stunning views and close to main road, giving easy access to whole area.”

- Richard, February 2010
Sarah December 2009

“Fantastic settings/views.”

Very private. Great location, close to all local areas and tourist attractions.

- Sarah, December 2009
Janet October 2009

“Everything was wonderful.”

- Janet, October 2009
Erica August 2009

“Stunning views from all rooms, and an ideal base for exploring Snowdonia.”

- Erica, August 2009
Mrs Dermody August 2009

“Fabulous location and views.”

- Mrs Dermody, August 2009
Erik August 2009

“Cottage is in a great location to see the whole area Snowdonia, Lleyn Peninisula, Harlech.”

Cottage was lovely and very spacious - ideal for six people and family holiday. We had a great time thank you

- Erik, August 2009
Simon July 2009

“The house was lovely and set in the most amazing area.”

Great view from the bedroom !! There was a huge amount to do, especially with 2 young boys to entertain. Really enjoyed the whole trip.

- Simon, July 2009
James June 2009

“The cottage was a fantastic base from where we could enjoy our holiday.”

- James, June 2009
Stuart May 2009

“Beautiful location, lovely interior, very friendly welcome, extremely comfortable beds, great views and facilities.”

Overall a lovely cottage.

- Stuart, May 2009
Alec & Helen April 2009

“The cottage was lovely and met all our requirements.”

It was in a beautiful location, convenient for visiting lots of interesting places and not too far from Portmadog. The owners were very pleasant and accommodating. The location was very quiet and peaceful.

- Alec & Helen, April 2009
Jackie February 2009

“The scenery from the cottage was outstanding, 360o of mountain views.”

The cottage was of a very good standard and very comfortable with plenty of space.

- Jackie, February 2009
Caroline August 2008

“The setting was beautiful and the house just so cosy, the area interesting with lots to do and friendly, welcoming people.”

- Caroline, August 2008

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Summary

Three bedrooms: 1 x double with Juliet balcony and en-suite shower, basin and WC, 2 x single, 1 x single
Bathroom with bath, hand-held shower, basin and WC
Ground floor basin and WC
Kitchen with dining area
shared washing machine in utility
Sitting room with woodburner.
Underfloor central heating with woodburner
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, dishwasher, shared washing machine in utility, TV with Freeview, DVD, WiFi
Fuel, power and starter pack for woodburner inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Cot and highchair on request
Off road parking for 2 cars
Bike storage (not lockable)
Patio with furniture, BBQ and lawned area
One well-behaved pet welcome
Sorry, no smoking
Shops, pubs and restaurants 3 miles
Beach 3 miles
Note: One double accessed from the bottom of the bed, unable to access from either side.

The property

Delightful, semi-detached barn conversion with character features and modern furnishings.

Superb base to explore this beautiful area.

Note: This property is next to Refs 2353 and 2838, together they sleep 16.

Ymwlch Bach Cottages

Criccieth 3 miles. These fantastic holiday homes are in a lovely rural location on a 96 acre working farm, three miles from Criccieth. There are two delightful, late 19th century stone barn conversions, both successfully converted to combine original character with modern décor and furnishings, including woodburning stoves. The traditional Victorian farmhouse has been cleverly split in two, and one half has been carefully converted to create self-contained, well-equipped accommodation; a welcoming mix of antique furnishings and modern fixtures and fittings. All the properties offer panoramic views of Snowdonia National Park and are in a central position for walking, cycling (the National Cycle Route is within 60 yards of the cottages), watersports or fishing. There is also easy access to wonderful beaches at nearby Criccieth, Morfa Bychan and the whole of the Llyn Peninsula. Enjoy medieval castles, the mountain railway, National Trust properties, lakes and waterfalls. Pwllheli, just 12 miles away, is home to the Welsh National Sailing Academy and Events Centre, hosting events and exhibitions throughout the year. Three lovely properties set amidst stunning mountainous scenery!

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About the location

CRICCIETH

Porthmadog 5 miles; Portmeirion 8 miles; Abersoch 15 miles.

Often described as the 'Pearl of Wales on the shores of Snowdonia’, this delightful seaside town is situated just 5 miles from Porthmadog. The town’s 13th century castle perches majestically on a rocky outcrop, dominating the skyline and offering superb views of Tremadog Bay and the Snowdonia mountains. Watersports enthusiasts will be delighted by the two beaches, whilst walkers and bikers are spoilt for choice by the proximity of the beautiful Snowdonia National Park. Stroll along the beaches, watch porpoises playing in the surf, or relax in the various pubs, restaurants and tea rooms, sampling the famous Cadwalader’s ice cream. Further afield, attractions such as Portmeirion’s wonderful Italianate gardens, the Ffestiniog railway in Porthmadog, Harlech Castle, Caernarfon Castle and the beautiful beaches and renowned golf courses of the Llyn Peninsula are all within an easy drive.

This property offers the following short breaks:

Winter
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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“Great views responsive host”

“Roof in living rook leaked for hours after having a shower owners advise was don't use the shower.”

“Despite all of the points below we really enjoyed our stay at Y Stabal and the cottage provided what we needed.”

“The property is charming and nicely situated but I am afraid that we were very disappointed.”

“Lovely cottage with everything that you need for a stay in Wales.”

“Excellent location and value for money.”

“Great spot and lovely cottage.”

“I found the cottage very comfortable and exactly how it was advertised.”

“Excellent cottage.”

“We had such a lovely time staying here.”

“A lovely property in a great location.”

“Me, my partner and dog had a lovely stay at this property.”

“We had a brilliant holiday, location great and cottage very comfortable.”

“Cottage was as advertised, good basic level of accomodation.”

“One of the toilets was blocked upon our arrival.”

“The cottage was in a beautiful area at the base of Snowdonia national park, and did have all the facilities which were advertised.”

“Brilliant location and an excellent barn conversion.”

“My family and I stayed at Ymylch Bach cottages for a holiday in Snowdonia.”

“Cottage is great and in a lovely location.”

“THIS COTTAGE WAS SHODDY, UNCOMFORTABLE AND DIRTY IN AREAS TO THE EXTENT THAT WE RETURNED HOME AFTER 3 NIGHTS AS OPPOSED TO 6 NIGHTS.”

“Absolutely fabulous location.”

“We had a great time helped by wonderful weather.”

“This is a lovely property in an excellent location.”

“Routine maintenance checks by the owner/caretaker were not efficient.”

“The location of the property was fantastic and the views surrounding the property were amazing.”

“A beautiful cottage in fabulous surroundings, I couldn't fault anything!”

“Very well situated for exploring Snowdonia and Lleyn peninsula, close to the coast and shops/pubs within easy reach.”

“It was a fabulous time, the property was great and views spectacular!”

“The location was easily accessible yet quiet and remote.”

“A beautiful cottage in an amazing location.”

“The building and the location was excellent.”

“Beautiful location, very conveniently located for all North Wales finest attractions and in sight of Snowdon.”

“Lovely modern cottage, loved the skylight windows and furnishings.”

“Great property with stunning views and close to main road, giving easy access to whole area.”

“Fantastic settings/views.”

“Everything was wonderful.”

“Stunning views from all rooms, and an ideal base for exploring Snowdonia.”

“Fabulous location and views.”

“Cottage is in a great location to see the whole area Snowdonia, Lleyn Peninisula, Harlech.”

“The house was lovely and set in the most amazing area.”

“The cottage was a fantastic base from where we could enjoy our holiday.”

“Beautiful location, lovely interior, very friendly welcome, extremely comfortable beds, great views and facilities.”

“The cottage was lovely and met all our requirements.”