Peace envelops Erw Rhys. A web of green Anglesey country lanes leads you off the main route to the cottage hiding amongst a cluster of weathered trees. No noise, no light pollution and no neighbours. No-one is quite sure when Erw Rhys was built but suffice that this solid stone cottage is ancient. It is pretty too, clinging to the mossy side of the hillside near Church Bay, with sheep fields and pine forests soaring below. There are inspirational, wrap-around sea views from this uplifting, wild spot just a twenty-minute walk from the beach.

The interior is atmospheric, cottage-cosy, full of personality and touched by appropriate detail – a chest used as a side table, storm lanterns and warm throws.

On the ground floor, there is a handsome wood burning stove which belts out heat from the vast inglenook – the perfect place to rustle up some Welsh cakes after a blustery walk! A lovely view-filled sitting room has a big friendly sofa to hunker down in after a long walk.

Local carpenter Owen made the kitchen at Erw Rhys in keeping with what was there. It is a simple country style room with parquet wooden flooring, large oak table and red and white gingham curtains through which the most awesome views can distract you as you cook.

The sweet bathroom has panoramic sea views from the roll top bath so you can watch the boats sail by from the bubbles. Or have a brisk shower after a long walk.

Downstairs is a crisp twin room and next to it a calm, uncluttered double bedroom with traditional furniture. There is no darkness or pokiness upstairs either. The large open room at the top with huge pitch pine beams has two large skylights perfect for star gazing. It is perfect for children to play or as a third bedroom for two.

As for the garden, steeply sloping in parts, it is lovely with lawns and shrubs overlooking the rolling views. If you need to join the Madding Crowd then it is close to the Wavecrest Cafe, Church Bay Inn and The Lobster Pot restaurant in nearby Church Bay. The nearest local shop is in Llanfaethlu village, about two miles away.

Hop over the lane and wander along the hedgerows to paddle and splash at the local beach at Church Bay. Or take a walk along the Anglesey Coastal Path, that skirts past Erw Rhys. Cemlyn National Trust nature reserve is on the doorstep about half a mile away with a fantastic shingle ridge, from which you may watch a host of water birds on the lagoon and walk back along the lane. On this walk, you'll pass the home of the first person to fly from Wales to Ireland, Captain Vivian Hewitt, who also created the lagoon.

Hikers, birdwatchers and peace-seekers will love this place so bring your walking boots and tramp the trails. Bring the binoculars too, you might just spot a skylark! It is an inspiring place where nature can provide the itinerary.

What people say about this cottage

Truly a stunning residence and a remarkable part of the world.

James Andrew
July 2022

Beautiful cottage, lovely view, great location, peaceful and tranquil. My 19 and 16 year old loved there time here also. We would definitely recommend it and would definitely return.

Kathryn
August 2022

A beautiful, tranquil location and a stunning, peaceful home to stay in. Highly recommend the lovely host, location and Anglesey as a whole. Very much looking forward to coming again!

Bethany
August 2023