Guests say
Glanrafon Isaf is a spacious and peaceful cottage, ideal for large groups and families seeking a rural retreat near Caernarfon. Guests praise its beautiful countryside setting, ample space, and well-equipped kitchen. The property offers a warm, homely atmosphere with plenty of outdoor space and scenic views of fields and animals. While some mention areas for improvement in cleanliness and maintenance, most found it comfortable and well-suited for gatherings. The host is responsive and welcoming, and thoughtful touches have been appreciated by some guests. Overall, it is a great base for exploring North Wales.
Cleanliness receives mixed feedback. Several guests found the property clean and tidy, but a notable number reported issues such as cobwebs, dust, and areas needing a deep clean. Some mentioned specific concerns like dirty windows, rubbish, and mould in bathrooms. Overall, standards appear variable.
The location is highly praised for its peaceful countryside setting, proximity to Caernarfon and local attractions, and beautiful views. Some mention minor road noise and a narrow drive, but most guests found the setting ideal for a relaxing break.
Guests consistently highlight the spaciousness, comfortable beds, and warmth of the cottage. The property accommodates large groups well, with plenty of room for children and adults alike. Some mention minor issues with attic room heat and shared bathrooms, but overall comfort is rated highly.
Facilities are generally good, with modern appliances, ample space, and a well-equipped kitchen. Some guests noted limited cutlery, slow WiFi, and maintenance issues such as overgrown driveways and minor wear and tear. The annexe and outdoor areas are appreciated, though a few suggest improvements.
Several guests mention thoughtful touches such as wine, Welsh cakes, and biscuits on arrival, as well as a responsive host. However, as these gifts are not guaranteed for every stay, future guests should not expect them as standard.
About this property
Spacious barn conversion with a riverside location. Open fire and French doors out to a decked area perfect for dining al fresco..
Ground Floor:
Open plan living space.
Living area: Freeview TV, DVD Player, CD Player, Open Fire
Dining area.
Kitchen area: Electric Cooker, Microwave, Fridge/Freezer
Utility Room: Washing Machine
Bedroom 1: Kingsize (5ft) Bed, TV, French Doors Leading To Garden
Ensuite: Cubicle Shower, Toilet
Bedroom 2: Double (4ft 6in) Bed, French Doors Leading To Garden
Ensuite: Cubicle Shower, Toilet
Bedroom 3: 2 x Single (3ft) Beds, (Jack And Jill En-Suite, Shared With Bedroom 2)
Bedroom 4: 2 x Single (3ft) Beds
Bathroom: Spa Bath With Shower Attachment, Toilet
First Floor:
Bedroom 5: 2 x Single (3ft) Beds
Annexe:
Ground Floor:
Open plan living space 2.
Living area: (No TV), Electric Fire
Dining area:
Kitchen area: Electric Cooker, Microwave
Bedroom 6: Double (4ft 6in) Bed
Shower Room: Cubicle Shower, Toilet.
Oil central heating, electricity, bed linen towels and Wi-Fi included. Travel cot and highchair. Lawned garden with patio with garden furniture and BBQ. Fishing on-site. Bike store. Private parking. No smoking. Please note: There is an unfenced river in the grounds.. Glanrafon Isaf is a fabulous converted barn and adjacent annexe that adjoins the River Gwyrfai, with full access for fishing and walking along the river bank. The open-aspect kitchen, dining and living area is ideal for family get-togethers and parties. The large decking area outside is ideal for barbecues and al fresco dining.
This holiday home lies close to the town of Caernarfon and there is much to see in the area, including mighty Caernarfon Castle, the Galeri Arts Centre or take a trip on a steam train on the Welsh Highland Railway to Beddgelert. Children will also love Caernarfon’s Fun Centre (Yr Hwylfan), and Gypsy Wood Park in nearby Bontnewydd. It is also just a short journey to the Isle of Anglesey with its spectacular 125 miles of coastline and fascinating places to visit such as Beaumaris with its Edward I castle, Red Wharf Bay and the beautiful and leafy Newborough Forest. In the other direction is Snowdon which, at 3,560ft, is the highest mountain in Wales. A more relaxing way than climbing to the top is to take the train to the visitor centre at the summit - on a clear day the views are spectacular! The Victorian town of Llandudno, Llanberis and picturesque Betws-y-Coed are all within easy reach.
Free WiFi
There are low ceilings, doors and/or beams within the property.
Suitable for up to 1 pet
Reviews (29)
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Confirmed Guest
We booked Glanrafon Isaf to celebrate my Mum’s 80th birthday. The layout of the accommodation and number of bedrooms suited our group perfectly, however, I was extremely disappointed at how dirty it was when we arrived. The kitchen worktops and floor felt very sticky and had not been wiped down. The fridge had clearly not been cleaned with dirty shelves and something red and sticky had been spilt in the bottom drawer which had not been cleaned. The inside of the kitchen cupboards were dirty and some of the glasses looked like they hadn’t been washed. There was a stain on one of the pillow cases in one of the bedrooms which made me worry whether the bedding had been changed. There was a tub just outside the main entrance to the barn which was full of cigarette butts - not pleasant for a group of non smokers. Outside there was plenty of areas to sit with lots of tables and chairs, however, the decking is getting tired and there was rubbish left at the back of the accommodation with an old BBQ that looked like it needed taking to the tip! There were mouse droppings which I had seen reported on a previous review but had hoped that it was a one off. I know the property is in the country but I have never come across this before at any other accommodation I have booked.I arrived at the accommodation an hour earlier than my parents to put up some birthday banners and balloons but I ended up spending the time cleaning which made a very stressful start to what should’ve been a relaxing break. The whole place needs a very deep clean and some of the furniture is very tired. It has the potential to be a very nice place if some money was spent updating it and giving it a very thorough clean. The positives were the space, the number of bedrooms, the location (lovely horses in the field by the accommodation), there was plenty of crockery, pots and pans but glasses were limited. I would recommend that the owners invest some money in the place and review who cleans it. It was good value for money for 11 people but we would have been happier spending a little more for the place to be clean.
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Jacqueline Jones
Had a wonderful weekend with the family- all 12 of us. Bedrooms really spacious and beds were comfortable. Lots of outside space for 6 kids. Did struggle with understanding how the oven worked by soon got the hand of it. Close to Caernarfon and had a great day at Dina’s Dinlle. Definitely would stay here again.
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Confirmed Guest
Where do I start what a lovely location comfortable cottage nice spacious .Would definitely recommend. Only thing I would like to mention is there was an electric cooker which was really slow for large group of people cooking. I would personally prefer Gas cooker. other than that, I can’t fault it.