“Yes, the definition "this holiday" is perfectly sound, I spend a lot of time assessing destination appeal so often the "where to stay" is finding the central point for days out, with the convenience of local facilities less important.”
It turned out to be a gem of a place, spotting Kettle Cottage: Dinas Mawddwy could've been at the back of the moon for all I knew about this little town, yet it turned out to be pretty heavenly. The pub that's Y Llew Coch to Welsh speakers did us proud - and you can "re-li-on" the food, the service and conviviality of The Red Lion for sure. Local history goes pretty deep in this ancient frontier between Gwynedd and Powys, the river which came as holy but was also seen as dividing Wales, with a ford the Romans used, and for certain where warriors crossed or fled when coming to do distinct harm to people they didn't like. King Arthur, the Sword Stone, Meirion and the Mill, Camlan - thought to be where King Arthur fought, yet not luckily, pluckily enough to avoid being mortally injured. So there you have it . . .a Kettle Cottage stay which delivered a world of wonder and wandering for that first day of walking and drinking-in of this touristy treat. From here, though, the roads led everywhere .. .to huddle on a hillside where you could look down into the cockpit of a jet skimming the ground on a flight I'd fancy, one scripted to the finest degree of skill and pilot judgement. Other places - the ancient Parliament House in Machynlleth - say it easier with Mac! - and the Tabernacl, in the other direction the quite easily reached Dolgellau then Llanrwst and the magic of Gwtydir Castle, to Betwys y Coed after tea under the leaves wrapped eaves of Tu Hwnt i'r Bont beside the double arch, but weak, river crossing bridge. Each evening back to the absolute comfort of Kettle Cottage. What a find! Peter Lumley - Burnham Boy.