PEN Y GAMFA - Anglesey Staycation

We had a wholesome couple of nights away at Pen y Gamfa, a quaint grade 2 listed cottage on the isle of Anglesey.

This Welsh hideaway is over 200 years old and was ideal for 2 adults and 2 dogs.

Amenities include:

- Enclosed tropical garden oasis with a sun trap at the back.

- Heated floor and Aga wood burner.

- Double bed, and crog loft with queen bed.

- Well equipped kitchen & bathroom/shower.

A real hidden gem, Pen y Gamfa is tucked away in the village of Dwyran. The property is advertised on Airbnb but we booked direct on Instagram.

The charming cottage comprises a lounge, bedroom area and crog loft. The bed is part screened from the lounge and windows have shutters making the cottage lovely and cosy during the winter nights. The eco extension with living roof is a later addition.

We arrived on Friday after picking up supplies from Waitrose, Menai Bridge. We wanted to make the most of the cottage and had decided it was going to be a cosy night in.

Having checked the forecast, we set off for an early walk on Saturday. The cottage is close to the beautiful coastline including magical Ynys Llanddwyn, an island which is classed as an area of outstanding natural beauty, and Newborough forest.

However we wanted to end the walk in a dog friendly pub so opted for Rhosneigr. We parked just outside at Porth Tyn Tywyn where the fab Sauna Wales is situated and watched people run from the freezing sea into a hot sauna! We walked along the dunes and beaches with both dogs enjoying the freedom and fresh air.

First stop in Rhosneigr was a bit of retail therapy at Janet Bell Home-store. Janet is a local artist and has two shops on the island selling her work and all things Scandinavian. I challenge anyone to leave Janet Bell’s without a purchase!

Next stop was Sandy Mount House, a contemporary beach house restaurant & bar. Think cosy corners, log fires & stylish interiors and dog treats! We had a pint and some lunch then headed back to the car getting caught in the forecasted downpour!

Luckily the cottage is only 20 mins away so we got back, stripped off, put our pj’s on and lit a fire. There is something so relaxing and mesmerising about a wood burner, the dogs lay in their beds in front of a roaring fire and it really was bliss.

Anglesey is our favourite island with wonderful beaches and pretty villages all around the coastline. This cottage can be enjoyed in the winter months with its cosy vibe as well as in the summer months with its tropical garden and sun trap.

The owners Ian & Gemma obviously have a love of gardens as they have a second property in Glan Conwy and the garden there looks beautiful too. Both gardens at the properties are a slice of paradise, picture lush greenery, vibrant flowers in every color imaginable. It's like stepping into a tropical oasis. Tyddyn y Felin is five minutes away from Bodnant Gardens if you are into Garden Centres.

So on Sunday morning we headed to Malltraeth and walked along the Cefni estuary into Newborough forest. Having studied the information booklet at the cottage, we headed for Llys Llywelyn in Aberffraw for a highly recommended club sandwich before heading home.

Other great businesses to visit on the island include;

Chateau Rhiannfa, Menai Bridge - for Champagne afternoon tea;

Cafe Notos, Rhosneigr - for Bakery/Deli/Cakes & speciality coffee;

The Oyster catcher, Rhosneigr - for food, cocktails and events;

The Gazelle Hotel, Menai Bridge - for lovely bar food, entertainment and views across the strait;

Space like this, Menai Bridge - for all things interior and in house design service;

Halen Môn, Brynsiencyn - for Pure Sea Salt and locally sourced products;

Green Olive, Menai Bridge - Vegan café;

Hawthorne yard, Menai Bridge - for fresh flowers and pre-loved furniture items & antiques;

Môn Hyfryd - for Beautifully converted maisonette self catering cottages;

Dylan's, Menai Bridge - for modern waterfront dining with pizza and seafood specials & Dylan's General Stores selling fresh local

Produce and baked goods.

Let me know if you ever visit and hope you enjoy Anglesey as much as we did!