Y Bwthyn Y Bala

Right, so this is Y Bwthyn. It's in Bala, right at the end of the lake. We're talking about Wales's biggest natural lake right outside.

It sleeps three. Two bedrooms, two bathrooms, which is useful. It's got a 4 Star rating. It's comfortable, but it's not a show home. The thing you need to know is the stairs. They're there, they're fine, but they are the cottage kind. A bit steep, a bit narrow. Worth mentioning so you're not surprised.

You've got your own decked area out the back. That's the main event, really. You sit out there with a drink and just look at the lake. It's a proper view. We run a coffee shop next door in the season, so you can pop in for a coffee and a cake.

Bala town is a short walk. Couple of pubs, few places to eat, a Co-op. There's a leisure centre if you fancy a swim. The Bala Lake Railway is at the end of the lake. You can get a little steam train along the shore to Llanuwchllyn. Good for fishing on the lake too, if that's your thing. You need a licence.

You're in Snowdonia here. You can drive over the mountain road to Lake Vyrnwy. That's an experience. Barmouth beach is about half an hour's drive if you want the sea.

What's there: parking on site, WiFi, TV, washing machine, dishwasher. Bedding and towels are included. There's a stairgate if you need it. We take one well-behaved dog.

Useful links: Snowdonia National Park for walking maps and things, and Lake Vyrnwy if you're planning that trip.