'The Hayloft' - a peaceful rural retreat for two

Set beside the apple orchard at The Old Sheep Farm in Eryri National Park (Snowdonia), The Hayloft is a dog-friendly, one-bedroom crog-loft hideaway a short drive from the coast. Exposed beams, a wood-burner and a freestanding roll-top bath give the cottage a warm, settled feel, while stunning views stretch across the hills towards the sea. A calm, characterful and luxurious place for slow mornings, long walks and unhurried stays. The space The Hayloft at The Old Sheep Farm The Hayloft sits beside the apple orchard at the Old Sheep Farm, with shared patio areas, a firepit and barbecue, and small private patio space to the front and rear of the cottage. Inside, the cottage opens into a full-height living and dining room beneath exposed beams. A large wagon-wheel chandelier hangs from the centre of the ceiling, setting the tone for the space. Chesterfield seating, a wood-burner and underfloor heating give the room a warm, settled feel - a place to unwind after days exploring the hills, wide sweeping coast and nearby villages. On quieter evenings, the sound of birdsong and the nearby river carries through the orchard. The kitchen is fully equipped with wooden worktops, a Belfast sink, oven and hob, dishwasher, microwave, fridge-freezer and a Nespresso coffee machine - well set up for everyday cooking. The wood-burner also incorporates a small pizza oven, ideal for relaxed evenings in. Beyond the main living space, the bathroom features a deep, freestanding roll-top bath with shower over - a calm, spa-like place to soak at the end of the day. Soft towels and locally made toiletries are provided. Upstairs, the mezzanine crog-loft bedroom sits tucked beneath the eaves, with exposed beams overhead and hanging space for clothes. From here, you can look down into the living area, and on quiet nights you may hear the river and owls in the trees beyond the orchard. The double bed is dressed with soft, hypoallergenic bedding and cosy throws, creating a sheltered, restful space for slow mornings and early nights. Outside, you can enjoy your own small private patios at the front and back of the cottage, as well as explore the orchard, the Bird Garden, the enclosed dog field (if you’re bringing a four-legged guest), and several shared patio areas around the smallholding. On clear days, the views stretch across to Anglesey and Puffin Island, and there is direct access onto the Carneddau mountain range for walking and mountain biking, as well as a nearby nature reserve. For coal and logs, a washing machine, and storage for bikes, kayaks and outdoor equipment, you’re welcome to use the shared Boot Room, located in a lower barn adjacent to the Hayloft. Guest access Guests have access to the entire cottage, along with the large front patio, communal courtyard, two smaller private patio areas, Bird Garden, orchard, enclosed dog field and the shared Boot Room. Other things to note Due to the character of the building, there is limited head height in some parts of the bedroom. There are also uneven ground surfaces and areas of water around the property, so guests are asked to take care. The dog field is fully fenced with standard-height stock fencing, but dogs should be supervised while using it. Dogs are allowed downstairs only. There are chickens belonging to the smallholding that roam freely. To keep them safe, dogs must be kept on a short lead outside the dog field. Several rivers run alongside the farm and within the nearby nature reserve, and there is also a pond on the smallholding. For this reason, any children on site must be supervised by an adult at all times. Access to the property is via Valley Road through the village, which becomes a single-track country lane. Although narrow in places, it is fully accessible by car, SUV and van, with passing places along the route.