Y Garreg Fawr, Caernarfon

Y Garreg Fawr is a small stone cottage at Llandwrog, a few miles south of Caernarfon, and its strongest card for dog owners is the garden. The plot is enclosed and a gate closes off the private driveway, so the outside space is secure enough to let a dog potter about off the lead. Guests travelling with dogs mention it more than anything else about the place, and it catches the sun for most of the day.

The cottage is compact and set up for Welsh weather. There is a large log burner, heating that warms the rooms quickly, a deep bath for after a day on the hill, and a projector for the evening. The kitchen is well equipped, though arriving guests suggest bringing basics such as milk and kitchen roll with you.

Position is the other draw. Yr Wyddfa and the Eryri passes are a short drive inland, Dinas Dinlle beach is closer still, and Caernarfon and its castle are about ten minutes up the road. It works as a base for walking days that start early and end wet.

Two things need thinking about before booking with a dog. The staircase to the mezzanine bedroom is very steep and built with alternate half treads, and dogs have not been able to manage it; owners have ended up sleeping on the sofa downstairs rather than leave a dog alone below. Pets are also not allowed on the furniture, which will not suit a dog used to the sofa at home. Cleanliness has drawn comment too, with dog odour and hair on throws and soft furnishings noted more than once. At 4.4/5, Y Garreg Fawr suits a small or medium dog that settles downstairs, and owners who want a secure garden with the mountains on the doorstep.