An historic 600 year old Fishermans cottage where the mountains meet the sea

Penygrisiau is one of Barmouths original buildings, it is also one of the oldest vernacular buildings in the country. The property is in the High Street and over the last 600 years the town has developed around it. The original Fisherman had enough of the sea views, they were more interested in protection from the coastal weather, as a result Penygrisiau is one of the very few buildings in Barmouth not facing the sea. You can't stay in the house without noticing the original slate sink that is a window sill. The early settlers in this Fishermans cottage used this to prepare their catch before selling, throwing the remains straight out of the window.

Translated Penygrisiau means top of the steps. The steps outside and the narrow twisting staircase means this may not be ideal for some people requiring ease of access so please be aware.

The property has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. There is a cosy living area and a well equipped kitchen. You can comfortably seat six at the dining room table If your walking or enjoying a family beach holiday the small entrance hall has plenty of storage for boots and coats. Unusually for a house in central Barmouth there is also a garden area. The garden is below street level so while you will hear the street activity above there is a good degree of privacy to enjoy a summer barbecue or enjoy a breakfast in the fresh air.

The property is full of charm and character without a straight line or an even floor in sight (except the new ensuite from spring 2018). This does mean there are imperfections. You will hear some outside noise as the windows are thin glass and the nature of the building being above a gift shop means that that sometimes a little noise reaches from below during the day, however in the evenings, when it matters it is quiet.

Its not all about the history of course. Enjoy good quality broadband and a smart television with Netflix & Prime. The weather in Wales is never ever guaranteed! There is also a selection of games and books for you to enjoy.

Information about the area can be found in a folder on the sideboard. We have visited the area for last few years and have based this on our favourite things to do and places to eat. The reason we love this place is very simple. You have easy access to the beach, the mountains and of course the wonderful lake Bala. Walk 15 minutes from the front door and you are up on the ridge overlooking the estuary. For serious walkers Cadir Idris towers above the estuary a short distance away. Be warned though. the legend says if you climb Cadir Idris and fall asleep on it you will come down either a mad man or a poet! For families with young children the beach and ice cream is a 2 minute walk. If you want a quiet beach then the stunning walk across the bridge to Fairbourne is highly recommended.

Activities are all around you. Paddle-boarding on the estuary, Wind surfing lessons or kayaking on lake Bala or for a little adrenaline rush you are 30 minutes from the Welsh national white water center. White water rafting is highly recommended. Bounce Below at Zip World Llechwedd will guarantee even the most energetic young people sleep well that night, layers of trampolines in an old coal mine is exhausting. Here you can also try the longest and fastest zip wire in the UK. Our favourite place for a day trip is Nantcol Waterfalls just outside Llanbedr. Please see the folder for more detail and more suggestions.

Our aim is simple. We would like your holiday to be amazing and for you to enjoy this historic home at the centre of so much to do as much as we do. If you have any questions or would like to know anything about the surrounding area please feel free to ask.

For more information, better deals and discounts please see our Facebook page ‘Barmouth Holiday Cottage Penygrisiau’