The Old Rectory on the Lake

Formerly the private residence of a Welsh clergyman, The Old Rectory on the Lake is a quiet, welcoming property nestled among scenic forests on the northern shore of Tal-y-llyn Lake. Its current owners, John Caine and Ricky Francis, bought this charming three-bedroom stone house in the early 2000s and turned it into a homey bed-and-breakfast with all the comforts of a private home, including plush beds with Egyptian cotton linen, free Wi-Fi, free breakfast, flat-screen TVs, and free parking. The cozy restaurant was added in 2010 and is now run by co-owner Ricky, who offers guests delicious food made with locally sourced ingredients. The property’s friendly hosts, renowned restaurant, serene setting and stunning views draw middle-age and older couples, many of whom are return guests. Decor is warm and cute throughout, with wooden floors, fireplaces, and stone accents. There are no over-the-top luxuries here, but the vibe is friendly and welcoming, and rooms feel comfortable and warm.

The hotel is located off a single-lane road running along the northern shore of Tal-y-llyn Lake. The setting is quiet and serene, with only mountains, forests, and the lake around it. The area is known for its hiking and biking trails, and the lake has great brown trout fishing. The Old Rectory is also a good base for exploring the Snowdonia National Park, which is home to several picturesque villages, a 12th-century Cistercian abbey, and a handful of castles built in the 13th century, including Castell y Bere, located a 10-minute drive away. Charming St Mary’s Chapel is just down the road. 

The hotel has four cozy rooms, all decorated in Welsh country style with wooden furniture and plaid blankets. All units have flat-screen TVs, Egyptian cotton linen, free Wi-Fi, free bottled water, hairdryers, and electric kettles, but each room has its own unique details, such as a white four-poster bed, a fireplace, or an accent wall with flower-printed wallpaper. The top floor houses Craig Goch and Mynydd Rugog rooms, both offering double beds, panoramic lake and mountain views, and large bathrooms with separate showers and standalone soaking tubs. Tal-y-llyn Room is located on the ground floor and has a smaller bathroom with a walk-in shower, as well as views of the grounds. Adjacent to the main house is the Rectory Retreat, a studio complete with a small living area and a kitchen with an oven, a sink, four hot plates and a breakfast bar. The studio can be booked with or without breakfast included and can sleep up to three. It’s the only room where kids are allowed.

The Orangery is the hotel’s renowned restaurant, housed in a cozy but stylish space with polished wooden floors, yellow walls, gabled ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows offering striking panoramic views of the lake and the mountains beyond. A free, homemade breakfast is served here every morning, and a wonderful seasonal dinner menu made with locally sourced produce is offered by co-owner and chef Ricky Francis several times a week. Guests going on day trips can request a packed lunch. 

The cozy lounge located off the lobby is a favorite among guests to unwind and mingle after a day of hiking or fishing. It offers comfortable seating, a fireplace, and a wine cooler. The hotel does not have a fitness center or a spa, but it does offer an outdoor tub and a sauna. Free Wi-Fi and free outdoor parking are also available.