Toll Bridge Cottage

• Sleeps: 2
• Bedroom: 1
• Bathroom: 1
• Minimum stay: 2-3 nights

The Mawddach Estuary is the wide, sandy meeting-place between the River Mawddach and the sea, with the bustling towns of Barmouth and Dolgellau achingly close by.

Built in 1879 as a replacement for ferry crossings, the toll bridge also houses a quaint, charming toll keeper’s cottage that sits beautifully alongside the scenic estuary for a relaxing, dog-friendly couple’s getaway.

Dating from the early 1900s, the fresh wooden interiors exude a time-capsule-like charm, with a crackling log-burner and comfy, cushion-covered seating to unwind in, over engrossing conversation and a glass or two of wine (there’s a TV ready for when you’re all talked out!)

There’s also a modern, well-equipped kitchen that comes complete with those holiday essentials – a microwave and a dishwasher – and a cosy dining nook to help you savour those freshly-cooked romantic suppers.

Time to turn in? There’s an elegant double bedroom to help you drift into a dreamy slumber – with plenty of pre-bedtime reading matter on the heaving bookshelves – and a shower room that’s perfect for freshening up after a sound night’s sleep, or a long day of exploring.

If the morning sun is shining, take your time over coffee on the scenery-showcasing terrace and watch the water and the local wildlife… and maybe wave to the occasional person or group crossing that historic toll bridge.

In the mood to do some exploring yourselves? The Mawddach Trail, a former railway track that runs from Dolgellau to Morfa Mawddach, is perfect for walkers and cyclists alike. Stretching out for nine-and-a-half miles, it’s a flat, wide route that’s suitable for everyone, and you can expect to enjoy some incredible scenery along the way.

At a glance

• A historic toll keeper’s cottage, peacefully secluded by the toll bridge over the Mawddach Estuary.
• The cottage boasts modern self-contained facilities for two guests and one well-behaved dog.
• Relax by the log-burner, over a home-cooked supper in the cosy dining nook, or out on the scenic terrace.
• Take the car – or the scenic Mawddach Trail – to the nearby towns of Dolgellau or Barmouth, or go birdwatching in the surrounding area.

Features

• Dog Friendly

More information

Spend some sun-time on the sandy beaches at Barmouth, or visit Dolgellau for a wonderful base if you’re planning on exploring Snowdonia in all its rugged, mountainous glory. The foothills of the iconic Cader Idris are close at hand – perfect if you’ve remembered to pack your sturdiest footwear.

You could also weave your way in and out of independent shops – Dolgellau also hosts a weekly farmers’ market – and stock up on supplies and souvenirs.

Meanwhile, if you’re more into birdwatching RSPB Mawddach Valley hosts two diverse, binocular-worthy sites: the woodland of Coed Garth Gell and the wetland of Arthog Bog.

Wear yourselves out doing whatever you please, before reconvening at Toll Bridge Cottage for another wonderfully cosy evening in together.

Things to note

Check in from 4pm – 10pm, check out by 10am.