Bryn Elltyd is a renowned eco-guesthouse 700ft up in Snowdonia, offering relaxed, comfortable accommodation. Facilities include a drying room/sauna, Wi-Fi access, three electric vehicle charging points and satellite TV, all delivered with minimal environmental impact.
Owners John and Celia believe that green does not mean compromise. They like to think they tread lightly on the land for the sake of their grandchildren. Many organisations discuss climate change and carbon reduction, but this business has acted and runs only on renewable energy. Solar panels were installed at Bryn Elltyd in 2000, and in 2014 the guesthouse became carbon neutral.
Bryn Elltyd guesthouse is a 1883 slate manager house with a ramp that delivered slate to the Ffestiniog steam railway, which meanders around its grounds. The trains still run – Tanygrisiau station and the Ffestiniog steam train are just 200m away – but the tech on the house has evolved. This zero carbon B&B now runs entirely on renewable energy.
The guesthouse has open access to mountaineering, rambles, climbing, mine exploration, local mountain and downhill trails, fishing and waterfalls. You can explore very varied natural ecosystems, Victorian slate heritage and locked gated roads.
The locality has honest, undiscovered, unspoilt heritage with instant access to the varied landscape.
There’s on-site bike storage and disability advice available from mountain leaders and the parent of a wheelchair user. Sea beaches and cliffs are just a 20 minute drive away, and six daily buses will take you pretty much straight to the door.
You’ll only need to make one change (at Llandudno Junction) if you take a London mainline train from Euston. You’ll then find yourself at this 1883 Wrsygan Quarry manager house right in the heart of Snowdonia.
‘Bryn Elltyd is a great base from which to explore the natural splendour and rich heritage of Snowdonia National Park, particularly if you are looking for a comfortable, no-nonsense B&B where you can expect a hearty breakfast in a relaxing atmosphere. John and his wife are also very experienced in providing for disabled guests so it’s a great place to stay if you’re looking for accessible accommodation. Finally, the commitment of the owners to reduce the impact of you stay on the environment and contribute to the local economy, makes Bryn Elltyd one of the most eco-friendly places to stay in North Wales.’
RICHARD HAMMOND
GreenTraveller.co.uk
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