Cabin on the Lake

The couple's retreat on the edge of the water features a double bed with Egyptian cotton covers, cosy alpaca blankets and under-bed storage for all the belongings. An indoor wood burning stove makes it ideal snuggling up at night. A well-equipped kitchen comes with a double burner gas hob, natural powerless fridge, saucepans, crockery, cutlery and utensils.

There are several options for washing. Either notify the hosts in advance and use the shower at Gwalia Farm, heat up some hot water and put it into the cabin's pump shower in its private willow enclosure, or take some water from the hot tub and bathe down by the lake.

The 'loo with a view' offers a truly unique experience as well, with the eco-friendly Swedish-style compost toilet looking out onto the surrounding countryside.

Typically considering where the cabin is set, the great outdoors is where the real gems are to be found, with a luxury wood fired hot tub looking out across the lake and mountains. Or use the outside table and chairs to sit around the firepit and toast marshmallows in the evening.

The overhanging roof covers the outside decking too, so even when the British weather is unaccommodating guests can dine alfresco without getting wet.

Gwalia is a self-sufficient farm and there is plenty of livestock and pets on site, while depending on what time of year guests visit, a variety of wildlife will always be around.

Head a little further afield and see what Wales has to offer, with the property nestled on the outskirts of Snowdonia National Park. The Precipice, Cadair Idris and Torrent walks are ideal for hikers, while there is also perfect mountain biking areas and the hair-raising climb up Bwlch y Groes to the highest road in the country.

Machynlleth is the nearest town with its antique shops and art galleries, while the village of Aberdyfi is right on the seaside and Aberystwyth is a little larger and has plenty of pubs and restaurants.