“To be clear, this was booked via ...”
To be clear, this was booked via Booking.Com on behalf of Sykes Cottages.
Bryn Llan more than met expectations. It is a lovely bungalow, much more spacious than expected, in a quiet residential area no more than five minutes (slow walk) to the town of Bala and from Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake) itself. The accommodation is excellent; three bedrooms (a twin and two doubles - one en-suite); a large living room and well-equipped kitchen. There is also a garden/courtyard for residents use and parking for two to three cars in front of the property.
Bala itself is well situated for excursions into the mountains of Snowdonia National Park if exploration is your desire. The town is a small town with two large convenience stores, a small number of cafes and places to eat. It also has two water sports centres and is less than a ten-minute drive to a nearby white-water activity centre (if that's your particular thing).
If you do not know this area or it is your first visit, there is plenty to see and do nearby. Bala, or more correctly Llyn Tegid, is the setting for (arguably) one of the most important myths within the Welsh Bardic Tradition, being the place where Cerridwen 'gave birth' to Talisien. For those who are interested in these things, there is much to explore and learn.
So, any downsides?
Well, the ONLY thing that passed under our radar when we booked was that there was an additional charge for gas and electricity at the property. You are asked to confirm meter readings when you arrive, check them when you depart and leave a cash payment for the electricity and gas you have used. This is not a major thing, although you may want to bear this in mind if you will be cooking a lot and using the heating. To put this in perspective, we were a family of four. We used the washing machine, a little heating the TV and electric as normal and the final bill was less than £8. We were not cooking every day, however, preferring to have barbecues by the lake or eating out.
If you are someone who MUST be connected to the internet, the property does not have a Wi-Fi connection, but the 4G signal is good and there are some local cafes and bars that do have free Wi-Fi.
In summary then...
We would have no reservations in recommending this property and would rent it again.
Whilst we were staying the owner popped by to place some plants outside the building. They were friendly and very keen that to hear how we felt about the bungalow, clearly, they feel that the property meets the needs and expectations of those visiting.
Alan and Sue
