Edwardian villa perched above Portmeirion Italianate village
A hidden hideaway for eight on a headland - bright, light and spacious with wrap around views across the Dwyryd estuary.
Wind your way up from Porthmadog to historic perfection at this hillside Edwardian villa – it’s a beautiful journey and the rewards are huge. Hafod Cae Maen is vibrantly green and peaceful surrounded by an acre of lush green - plenty of fields and woodland so you’re free to roam. The family have been on this headland for well over a century; with long luminous views over the estuary and an ever-refreshing sea breeze, time really does stand still here. You can even hear the little steam train toot towards the coast in the distance Impeccable but homely, with an effortless blend of modern comfort and period style, the evocative oak-floored library with an open fire and big views through big windows seats eight comfortably. Clough Williams-Ellis of Portmeirion fame installed the oak panelling - it oozes charm. The books alone can help keep you rooted in this room for days! For the avid reader, the studious or work conscious guest, the desk area is a bonus. You could tinkle on the piano as an interlude or just get cosy by the fire. Next door is the sitting room with wood stove, TV and many games if all that reading, and music gets too much. The airy kitchen has the old terracotta floors big windows and French doors for lots of light. A kitchen with all the gadgets and a large range cooker is delightful with a classical style and locally sourced cool slate tops. A cosy snug to watch TV or help to supervise the chef is tucked in at the side of the kitchen. A large handmade slate and oak dining table is plate ready for the group gatherings and makes for a convivial evening with wine aplenty. Here, a generous welcome hamper greets you loaded with the excellent local treats to get you started.
Head upstairs and light floods into the bedrooms. The main king bedroom is spacious with walls painted in delicate shades, white cotton bedding, firm mattresses and plump pillows. This room is all about the views – a veranda is poised ready to help you enjoy them. Or sneak a quite read on the sofa. Another peaceful king bedroom next door that overlooks lawned gardens and the estuary. Two more rooms have been designed with comfort in mind; sisal carpets, deep rich paint shades and bespoke beds create a peaceful place to lay your head. You won’t draw down the blinds as the views are mesmerising and so are the peaceful stars. Both rooms have twin beds that can convert into super kings for couples or those that like to stretch out.
The two traditional travertine lined bathrooms on the landing area are well placed, smart and stocked with fluffy white towels. You can cook together in the kitchen or use the barbecue – there’s a big dining out table in the garden – drink fine wines, pick the lavender, nod off in a deckchair - you’ll never, evertire of the view. Hafod Cae Maen was designed and built by Caton Haigh a botanist so you be sure some of the plant specimens are very rare. There are swathes of lawn and you’re surrounded by bird life and views of the estuary and mountains. As the sun rolls around, the side decked terrace area has more seating and handsome greenery and flowery scents tumble freely around you.
Children will love the huge garden and have their own little hideaway filled with outdoor games it’s a handy den – croquet anyone? Tailor-made for hot sunny days and cosy winter evenings, the terrace is perfect for seating the clan outside in all weathers. The Wales Coastal Path runs right along the boundary of Hafod Cae Maen so there’s no excuse to head for Portmeirion's beach. Take in the long walks - it’s a 10-minute stroll through the woods to Portmeirion, and a 15-minute walk across fields to Castell Deudraeth for food (you need a ticket to Portmeirion to dine). It’s also a 15-minute walk to Boston Lodge to join the Ffestiniog Railway and steam down the coast or up to the slate quarries for a game of underground golf! Or it’s only a quick drive to Portmadog with its marina, shops and restaurants. A visit to Portmerion the enchanting Italianate style village is an absolute must. The Dwyryd estuary here is a hidden gem with huge expanses of sandy gorgeousness. Morfa Bychan is also a great day out and just a short trip down the coast (Black Rock Sands) with two miles of silky sands.
Return to much comfort and shake the sand from the shoes, put your feet up and gaze at a myriad of stars as night falls.
Click on the map for local places of interest.