Idlewylde
Machynlleth, Snowdonia, Wales, UK
Nestled into the Snowdonian hills, as comfortable within the wilderness as the peregrine falcons who soar above it, Idlewylde hovers within the treetops in the valley of the River Dyfi. From the sweet seclusion to mountain vistas, hot tub to glittering skies uninterrupted by city lights, this luxury self-catering cottage is an impossibly romantic escape for couples in North Wales.
Introduction
Transformed from tumbledown sheep shelter to luxury cottage, Idlewylde retains much of its heritage while merging a smorgasbord of centuries, cultures and countries into just 63 cosy squared metres of Welsh slate. Blending the antique and modern with a dash of eccentricity, this faraway house has oodles of character and soul; a true expression of humour and a life-well-travelled on the remote edges of Snowdonia National Park.
Inside
Theatre seats from a 1920's auditorium, a turquoise parrot perched by the fire and a living moss wall set behind an antique bath so deep it could hide sirens within its depths, Idlewylde is a treasure trove of surprises. On the ground floor, a patchwork of locally-sourced materials outline where the original walls once stood while, up the steep twisting staircase, the en suite double bedroom hides Indian antiquities and sumptuous French linens.
Outside
Up a winding driveway beneath a canopy of sun-spangled leaves and over Angel River, the journey to Idlewylde is as enchanting as the destination. After days exploring the surrounding peaks of Snowdonia, retreat to the deck for a well-deserved tipple, or sink into the hot tub as night descends, the summits sparkling under the glow of the moon with snow in winter, radiating with the hue of a fine rosé when summer sunsets blaze.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 2 guests
From £1,595 per week, £1,150 per short break - Bedrooms and bathroomsThere is one first floor double bedroom with super king-size bed and en suite including an antique bathtub, separate shower and WC.
View bedrooms - FeaturesHot tub
- PetsTwo well-behaved dogs are welcome, or three on prior request
Each pet is charged at £60 per stay - Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyBabes-in-arms are very welcome. There is one cot and one highchair available.
- PracticalitiesThere is ample private parking for up to four cars. Please note that the access track is not suitable for low-slung cars. CCTV cameras cover the parking area and entrance for added security, please enquire if you would prefer these blinded for your stay. The kitchen includes an under-counter oven, Neff induction hob and slimline dishwasher, while the neighbouring utility room includes a fridge-freezer, microwave, washer-dryer and Nespresso coffee machine. The staircase within the property is steep and guests are asked to take care, especially when entering the house from the hot tub area.
- Homestay includesA welcome hamper of fresh bread, eggs, luxury chocolates and Prosecco, Starlink WiFi, plus use of a Smart TV, Ultimate Ears sound system, electric car charging point and charcoal barbecue...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more
- Private cateringSeeking a celebratory dinner or fully catered escape? Our recommended caterers will work with you to create personalised menus for your stay. Details are shared through our house book on confirming your booking.
- RetreatsFrom surf lessons to dawn yoga and adrenaline-fuelled adventures, we work with the most inspirational of experts to ensure a truly tailored stay. On confirmation of booking, these details will be shared within your house book.
- Eco-friendlyElectric car charging point, solar panels
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questions
Prices & Availability
Machynlleth
Antique stores, independent boutiques and an unquestionable bohemian vibe make up the thriving market town of Machynlleth, sat almost at the very tip of Snowdonia National Park. The weekly Wednesday market and annual comedy festival are not to be missed.
Getting there
- On the Map On the southern fringes of Snowdonia National Park, North Wales, this luxury couples' cottage sits just outside of Mallwyd village, 11 miles from Machynlleth.
- By Car Idlewylde is approximately four hours and forty minutes drive from London.
- By Train Machynlleth train station is 11 miles away, with regular routes to Birmingham and then beyond to the rest of the country.
- By Air Both Liverpool and Manchester airports are around two hours away by car.
From the owner
“We fell in love with the house as soon as we saw it. The area in and around Snowdonia National Park is truly magical and has a spellbinding atmosphere.”
The house hadn't been lived in for the past 30 years when we bought it, although was a popular sheltering spot for the local sheep, and it needed a lot of TLC to restore it to its former glory.
The renovation took three years; nothing was untouched. We were very passionate about retaining its natural beauty and have kept as much of the original house as possible, including an open fire with a bread oven in the lounge. We even sympathetically pulled up the original slate floor to damp proof the downstairs and replaced every flagstone in its original place - one stone weighs over 240kg!
When we started pulling together the eclectic mix of objects for the interior, we had a single-minded vision: beautiful and interesting in equal measure. There are stand-out pieces in every space.
The surrounding area has everything one could want: from adventure to Michelin stars, from beaches to mountains to lush, ancient countryside and intriguing local villages.
The Little Family
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Machynlleth with an insider’s perspective.
To Eat
Ynyshir Restaurant, Egwyls Fach
Recently heralded as the best restaurant in Britain and with 2 Michelin stars, this is a fully immersive culinary experience, with house DJ and a theatrical kitchen performance. World flavours, fresh fish and a menu curated around taste explosions; Ynyshir is not to be missed.
To See
Portmeirion Village
Created by Welsh architect Clough Williams-Ellis in 1976, this Italinate village on the Welsh coast offers visitors a journey into Europe from the Welsh wilderness. Botanical gardens, gelato and fine-dining can all be found within.
To Do
Bala Lake, Gwynedd
Over four miles long and a mile wide at its largest point, this glacial lake not only takes the top spot for a beautiful afternoon picnic of local deli treats, but also offers plenty of opportunities for getting on the water with two sailing clubs plus canoe, kayak and SUP hire.
To See
Red Bull Hardline, Machynlleth
Idlewylde is surrounded by a variety of world-class mountain biking and is home to the Red Bull Hardline. The world´s toughest downhill mountain bike race is a severe test of skill and nerve on the infamous Machynlleth course designed by Dan Atherton.
Guest Testimonials
Read reviews on TrustPilot and Google
A beautiful location and beautifully modified. We very much appreciate the time and effort that must have been poured into the property to make it what it is today! A truly special break which we won’t forget anytime soon. Thankyou for our lovely local goodies to savour on our arrival too!
We had a fabulous stay at Idlewylde! Although the cottage is small, it’s perfectly formed and equipped with everything needed for a very comfortable experience. Its location is ideal - far enough away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, yet just a short drive to charming towns and local attractions. The surrounding countryside offers glorious views and fantastic hiking opportunities. We thoroughly enjoyed our time here and highly recommend this delightful cottage!
The property is stunning and has everything you need. This is a truly unique location. Quiet and peaceful with the most incredible scenery. The house is cosy and welcoming. The local community were really kind and gave great advice on where to visit. We left relaxed and happy.
We had a wonderful stay, thank you very much. Your directions were excellent and both Glo Pamper and Ox & Origin made for a truly memorable weekend. The location was perfect, far enough off the beaten track to feel isolated with no light pollution yet close enough to the road to get to places. Very comfortable fixtures and fittings, and the house definitely lived up to its marketing descriptions and photos. We were extremely lucky with the weather and star gazing from the hot tub was another highlight.
I just wanted to say I had a wonderful time at the house. The weather was generally atrocious but, if I´m honest, that gave us a perfect excuse to spend a lot of time inside. The owners have done a wonderful job in renovating this place; it is truly exceptional. The attention to detail is phenomenal and I have already recommended it to many friends; I certainly plan to return. Thanks for allowing us into your home.
We were blown away by the property and the attention to detail. We couldn´t have asked for anything more. The owner had thought of everything! Thank you for a wonderful stay in beautiful Wales.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
complete an image bank request
Natural beauty
25 Beautiful Homes
December 202425 of the best autumn getaways
The Times
November 2024Good manors
Condé Nast Traveller
November 2024Ways to improve your life—from our experts
The Times
October 2024The UK´s most relaxing riverside stays
The Times
October 2024At one with nature
25 Beautiful Homes
September 2024Healing waters
Condé Nast Traveller
September 202425 of the UK´s best lakeside stays
The Times
September 2024
All Properties > UK > Wales > Machynlleth > Idlewylde
Related Collections
Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.
