Heddwen
Harlech, Snowdonia, Wales, UK
A Welsh granite home with dramatic views of Cardigan Bay in one direction and Mount Snowdon grazing the clouds in the other, Heddwen is deliciously at mercy to the elements. Inside, all is warm and inviting; modern touches blend with tradition and tender craftmanship sings with soul from every surface. A luxury self-catering farmhouse cottage by the sea with alchemy twisting through its foundations.
Introduction
Like the prince battling coiling brambles to rescue Briar Rose from her castle, Heddwen’s owners pushed through a tangle of thorns to liberate this tumbledown farmhouse from disrepair. Now, it stands resplendent on the Welsh coast, glowing with welcome arms open to embrace like a grandmother not seen in years. There is as much, or as little, to do at this self-catering escape as one pleases; mountainous adventures, sand castles and surf, or long lie-ins, slabs of cake for tea and lazing in the al fresco tub looking out across the bay.
Inside
It’s all in the details at Heddwen. Headboards crafted from ancient oak feature in three of the bedrooms, a homemade ironwork chandelier hangs above the large farmhouse kitchen table and window shutters fashioned from aged wooden doors keep the outside world at bay. Family roast lunches and slow cooked suppers are a pleasure to prepare in the warm double-height kitchen, while cool evenings are best spent on the deep sofas, fire crackling away in the woodburner beside.
Outside
One acre of sloping, shaggy lawn tumbles towards the sea and Tremadog Bay, where sweeping vistas of some of Wales’s most stunning scenery plays out with trembling force or serene idyll, depending on the season. To the east, Morfa Harlech Nature Reserve’s rolling sand dunes softly rise and fall before gathering speed and climbing to Snowdonia’s peaks. Facing west across Cardigan Bay, sunsets are nothing short of spectacular; pop open a bottle of fizz and lie back to watch kaleidoscopic colours blaze into the horizon.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 6 guests
From £2,295 per week, £1,750 per short break - Alternative group optionUp to 2 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsThere are four bedrooms across two floors at Heddwen. The first is on the ground floor and has a double bed and stunning sea views. Up the stairs and there are three further bedrooms; one with double bed, one with bunk beds and one with handcrafted king-size bed and en suite shower room. The family bathroom, with standalone bathtub and handheld shower attachment, is on the first floor, and there is a further small shower and WC in the ground floor utility room.
View bedrooms - FeaturesOutdoor bath
- PetsSorry, no pets
- Arrivals and departuresArrival Day: Friday or MondayArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyYes, children aged four and above are very welcome.
- PracticalitiesThere is parking for two cars on the steep, grassy driveway which leads down to the house. Please note that the driveway is narrow, so wide vehicles like vans and 4x4s will not fit through the gate; alternative parking is available on prior request. The rustic kitchen includes an Ever-Hot oven, induction hob, hot and simmer plate, large fridge, dishwasher and microwave. There is a separate utility room with washing machine, tumble dryer, freezer and Nespresso coffee machine. Please note that the garden is not fully enclosed, children will therefore need to be supervised at all times.
- Homestay includesLuxury hamper of local produce, Smart TV, Wi-Fi, built-in charcoal barbecue, a bottle of the owner´s favourite wine, marshmallows and toasting forks, firewood and kindling to get your started, Myddfai travel gift sets, ice bucket and bottle of Prosecco to enjoy in the alfresco tub...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more little luxuries
- Private cateringDiscover your options for private dining and fully catered breaks.
- Additional extrasA handpicked selection of unique experiences are available at this property.
- Eco-friendlyGround source heat pump, electric car charging point
- RestrictionsThis property is only available to repeat guests of Unique Homestays. Parties are considered on prior permission from the owner, fireworks are not permitted in the grounds and music is not to be played outside after 9pm. Please note, groups under the age of 30 are not permitted.
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questionsEV charger locationsCheck mobile signalRecommend to a friend
Prices & Availability
Harlech
Settled on the coast at the edge of Snowdonia National Park, Harlech is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers and sunset chasers. Harlech Castle, which perches on a craggy rock overlooking the dunes, is the crowning jewel in this coastal destination.
Getting there
- On the Map Heddwen sits on the western coast of Wales' Snowdonia National Park, in the village of Harlech.
- By Car This farmhouse cottage is approximately five and a half hour's drive from central London.
- By Train Harlech station is just a five minute drive from the property, with regular services to Birmingham and the rest of the country. There may be a reduced train service in winter; please check times before arrival or departure.
- By Air Liverpool airport is two and half hour's drive away by car to the north, and Birmingham airport is three hour's to the south.
From the owner
“We are absolutely delighted to be able to share our dream home by the sea and we are sure Heddwen will cast its magic spell over you as it has over us.”
Heddwen is an historic farmhouse, originally one of two tenant farms belonging to the Crown that together farmed the whole hillside just outside Harlech. Sadly it had become very run down and was dilapidated for many years.
When we first stumbled across it we had to push through a mass of brambles just to get to the living room window to peek inside. We will never forget that moment!
On a sunny day, sunbathing on the loungers looking at the incredible views of the sea, the beach and the peninsula, watching birds and boats with binoculars is one of our favourite ways to spend time here.
If you feel the need to roam (and roam, you must!) drive to Llandanwg beach and its beautiful green sea pasture with boating inlet, then onto the lovely beach with old St Tanwg´s church almost buried in the dunes. If you're lucky, you'll catch one of the mini string concerts held here in the summer; they are simply divine.
Joss and Kimberley
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Harlech with an insider’s perspective.
To Do
Harlech Castle
Crowning a sheer craggy rock above the dunes and backed by the rugged, snow-dusted peaks of Snowdonia, Harlech Castle has drama by the bucketful, making for an inspiring family day out.
To Eat
Bodnant Welsh Food
A one-stop-shop for all things foodie on the northern edge of the National Park, come here to gather treats before taking the scenic drive home to rustle up a supper of local fare.
To Eat
Yr Hen Fecws
Behind a pea green front door and pretty window boxes, this welcoming Porthmadog restaurant serves up a locally-sourced menu of linguine, curry, and lemon posset.
To See
Harlech Beach
Just a walk away, this large and tranquil beach is settled on the borders of Snowdonia National Park, surrounded by race-ready dunes and clear water where kayakers can while away the day.
Guest Testimonials
Beautiful house in a stunning location and would visit again just for the exceptional views. Thank you for having us and allowing us such a comfortable stay in your lovely rural home, pure bliss!
We had a wonderful time, we loved our stay at Heddwen - were able to explore so much - kayaking, hiking, and much more. The property´s location offered us plenty of space to adventure, we had an excellent time.
Heddwen is absolutely beautiful. The setting and views are insane! We´ve all had the best time and even though the weather was mixed it made the views even more magnificent! We are all so relaxed and loved it! A complete find and will definitely be booking again. Thank you!
Unique extras
Enhance your stay with a unique experience from one of our preferred suppliers. From professional in-house chefs to luxury at-home spa therapists and wine delivered to the door, see what’s on offer for your bespoke escape.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Heddwen and Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
complete an image bank request
2022 travel predictions
The Telegraph
January 2022Best cabin stays in the UK
The Times
May 2023Staycation in splendid isolation
Country Living
May 2023Britain´s best holiday cottages
The Telegraph
May 2023Best holiday homes in the UK
Conde Nast Traveller
May 2023A look inside The Fable x The White Company
House Beautiful
May 2023Britain´s best offbeat escapes
Country Living
May 2023Follying up the folly
Country Living
May 2023
Collections > Coastal Retreats > UK > Wales > Harlech > Heddwen
Related Collections
Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.
