The Local Area

Ty Capel Carmel sits high in the peaceful hills above the village of Llanfachreth near Dolgellau, where only the occasional car passes and your closest neighbours are often alpacas. The views are breathtaking, stretching across to Cadair Idris with the sun setting behind the mountains.

This beautifully quiet, untouched location is a nature lover’s paradise. You’ll have your own stretch of stream and hillside to explore, where dogs — and humans of all ages — can enjoy the babbling water and small waterfalls below.

Despite its secluded feel, Ty Capel Carmel is also a fantastic base for exploring the wider area, which offers something for everyone.

Walking

North Wales is a walker’s dream, and you’ll be spoilt for choice here.

  • Walks from the doorstep: Enjoy peaceful trails straight from the house without needing to get in the car.
  • Nearby classics: The stunning Torrent Walk and Precipice Walk are both just a short drive away.
  • Family-friendly routes: The Mawddach Trail offers a gentle walk or cycle along the estuary from Dolgellau to Barmouth — with a great pub stop at Penmaenpool.
  • For seasoned hikers: Cadair Idris provides a spectacular day out. Slightly smaller than Snowdon but equally rewarding, and far less crowded.
  • Click here for some more great walks.

Biking

The area is a paradise for mountain biking and trail running.

  • Coed Y Brenin Forest Park: Just minutes away, this world-renowned centre offers trails for all abilities, bike and equipment hire, and a playground. Experienced riders can access the park directly from the house.
  • Dyfi Bike ParkA little further towards Machynlleth, this downhill park created by British MTB champion Dan Atherton offers serious riding and another great café.

The Mach Loop: Ty Capel Carmel is situated just off what is known as the 'Mach Loop: a sequence of valleys regularly used by the RAF for low level flight training. Enthusiasts take to the hills to watch military aircraft fly incredibly low, some of which can be seen flying directly over the house to enter the loop.

Nearby Towns

  • Dolgellau (dol-GETH-lie): A charming market town with pubs, cafés, groceries and independent shops. Don’t miss TH Roberts in the old ironmongers — fantastic cakes and an excellent Welsh Rarebit, perfect after a day on the hills.
  • Machynlleth (mer-HUN-cliff): A vibrant town with independent boutiques, cafés, and the Museum of Modern Art — well worth a visit.

Beaches: 

The nearby coastline offers a mix of traditional seaside fun and wild beauty.

  • Barmouth: Miles of sandy beach plus all the classic attractions — pubs, arcades, donkey rides, ice cream and fish & chips.
  • Fairbourne: Hop on the miniature steam train and enjoy its wide sandy beach at the end of the line.
  • Harlech: A more rugged, dramatic beach backed by dunes, with the impressive Harlech Castle to explore.

Zip world:

For thrill-seekers, several Zip World centres are within easy reach, offering zip-wire courses, underground trampolines and the UK’s only alpine coaster — great fun for all ages.

Local amenities: 

  • Groceries: The nearest supermarkets are the Eurospar and Co-op in Dolgellau, both compact but well stocked.
  • Home deliveries: Morrisons and Asda deliver to the house 
  • Tip: Add a note asking drivers to come up from Dolgellau via Llanfachreth — otherwise they may get lost!

IMPORTANT - The house is located on a remote mountain road and guests visiting in winter should be well prepared for winter road conditions and check the forecast before traveling. If you have any concerns, please get in touch and we’ll be happy to talk this through with you. 

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Highlights
  • Dog friendly
  • Wifi
  • Large woodburner
  • Remote location
  • Breathtaking views
Location
Guest Comments

Quirky and very comfortable cottage in a glorious location, nature literally on the doorstep. If you want total peace away from other people (except a couple of friendly neighbours who even then are a ...

David