Glyn-yr-Aur - a real gem

Are life’s true riches made up entirely of stocks, property portfolios and profits before tax or do life’s legitimate treasures consist of phenomena that have more indefinable qualities that no accountant could translate into strictly financial terms? Can breath-taking mountain scenery, verdant lush pasture or rippling pine forests be transposed into any number of rubies, diamonds or gold? Or have we, in an evermore-grasping society, lost our senses, and become solely concerned with material wealth to appreciate the divine and its diffusion into the natural world? Perhaps answers to these enduring questions can be explored extensively during a stay at mountainside retreat Glyn-yr-Aur, which nestles among 127 acres of pine forest and hillside pasture at the edge of the Coed-y-Brenin Forest Park.

With arresting sunsets, stunning mountain scenery and occasional crisp azure blue skies, this corner of Snowdonia offers people the perfect opportunity to radically rethink their priorities and re-energise their souls. Intriguingly Glyn-yr-Aur translates literally in to the Valley of Gold; and takes its name from the inspiring valley in which it rests. A treasure chest of memories is undeniably one of the greatest riches that could be stockpiled and taken away from this area – to be reopened, replayed and savoured endlessly in the imagination for no cost at all. Indeed, gold of the precious metal variety was mined for generations at a disused works a few miles away from the recently renovated barn. But perhaps the flecks of gold that regularly streak across the sky at sunset, interspersed with all hues of magentas or violets, are among the real treasures to be found here at Glyn-yr-Aur.

INSIDE GLYN-YR-AUR

The views from the living room window are perhaps some of the best features of Glyn-yr-Aur. The Rhinog Mountains and the nearby Y Llethr jut out powerfully into the skyline and provide a magical backdrop to the surrounding forest landscape which is steeped in mystery and ancient folklore. Light and the captivating scenery seeps in to this exceptional holiday let from the myriad skylights, doorways and windows. Natural products such as oak, slate tiles and granite work surfaces adorn many of the fixtures and fittings to provide a property that is both modern and at the same time fastened to fabrics and structures more typical of yesteryear. Largely open plan in style, the cottage possesses a spacious living area that is replete with furniture and hi-tech extras that offer all a guest could possibly need. A large corner settee/sofa bed, satellite television, playstation 2 and broadband computer are just some of the facilities that are featured. High vaulted ceilings run through to the adjoining galley kitchen which has top-of-the-range oak panelled units that also contain a gas hob, electric oven, fridge and washing machine. Granite work surfaces and Alice in Wonderland tiling also complete the distinctive and eclectic overall scheme. The two bedrooms house 4 sturdy single beds and additional pine dressers and bedside tables. Duvets and pillow are supplied, but guests are asked to bring their own bed linen and sheets. Two shower rooms(one en suite) are also located in the cottage, which provide an impressive suite of contemporary facilities. Both have showers, washbasins,toilets and shaving points. Outside the cottage there are walks a plenty and a myriad of bike trails that offer any visitor an overflowing choice of activities. Additionally, there is also a multitude of nearby attractions, pubs and eateries to cater for all interests and tastes. A warm and friendly welcome awaits all those who make a booking and the owners hope very many people will want to take a break in this magical and entrancing part of the Snowdonia National Park.