Awen

Introduction

Since at least the 1840s, the Afon Gwyrfai has shaped life at Awen. The river once turned a water wheel that powered this mill, its current harnessed to clean wool from local farms. Following a sensitive restoration, the building has been transformed into a tranquil mountain home, yet still bears the imprint of its past. The owners have worked in close dialogue with the building’s character, honouring its history and setting at every turn. New timbers have been painstakingly scribed to the original stone masonry, whilst architectural additions have been designed with restraint, framing the ancient mountains that have long watched over this dwelling. The result is a space that invites guests to immerse themselves in the heritage and landscape of this remarkable corner of Wales.

Inside

Soft organic hues, storied antiques and tactile textures – from sheepskin rugs and gingham bed linen to traditional Welsh blankets draped over plump sofas – create a restful atmosphere that feels like home. The main living space gathers around an inglenook fireplace with a woodburner and hearth crafted using locally sourced slate from a quarry in Trawsfynydd. Here, as it has for generations before, the fire draws people close – a place to share stories after long days spent walking the hills. Throughout, windows draw the elemental landscape inside. In the oak-panelled garden room, views towards Y Garn provide a cinematic backdrop for meals – perhaps a bowl of Menai mussels with freshly baked sourdough – as you watch clouds gather and move slowly across the peaks.

Outside

Mother Nature takes centre stage at Awen, expressed across two distinct garden spaces. To the south: wildflowers, heather terraces, mosses, drifts of bluebells, daffodils and snowdrops in spring, and boulders deposited during the Ice Age. To the north, a more cultivated garden traces the site's industrial heritage. A ribbon of river pebbles marks the course once taken by water returning from the mill wheel to the Afon Gwyrfai, which flows along the home’s eastern boundary and supports a rich variety of wildlife, including otters, mink and herons. Beyond, footpaths lead directly into celebrated mountain landscapes, passing historic slate quarries or towards the summit of Yr Wyddfa. Post-exploration, an outdoor William Holland bath offers a place to soothe tired muscles, immersed in the stillness of the valley.

• PricingFrom £1,850 per week, £1,395 per short break for up to 4 guests
  An alternative group size of up to 2 guests is available during selected periods at a reflective rate
• FeaturesOutdoor William Holland bath
• PetsYes, one dog is welcome
  Pets are charged at £60 per week or part thereof
• FamilyChildren and babies are welcome
• PracticalitiesThere is private parking for up to three cars. The kitchen is equipped with two microwave-style ovens, an induction hob, a Chemex coffee maker, a Nespresso machine with coffee pods (regular and decaf), a dishwasher, a fridge and a freezer. A separate utility room includes a washing machine and tumble dryer. CCTV covers the outside area. Although the garden is mostly enclosed, there is an open stream at the end; the volume and speed of the water can increase significantly after a storm, so please stay away
• Private cateringWhether you're looking for a fully catered stay or a special meal to mark an occasion, you'll find private chef options in your house book, available once your booking is confirmed
• RetreatsFrom surf lessons to dawn yoga and adrenaline-fuelled adventures, we work with the most inspirational of experts to ensure a truly tailored stay. On confirmation of booking, these details will be shared within your house book

Caernarfon

Set on the banks of the Menai Strait, with Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park on its doorstep, this historic town is home to a UNESCO-listed medieval castle, a picturesque harbour and a growing independent food scene.

View property location Destination guide

Getting there

• On the map Awen sits in the village of Rhyd Ddu within Eryri National Park (Snowdonia).
• By car Approximately five and a half hours from London and three hours from Birmingham.
• By train Bangor is the nearest train station, approximately 35 minutes away by car. There is a direct train service from London Euston to Bangor, with a journey time of around 3 hours and 15 minutes.
• By air Heathrow airport is approximately five hours away.