Bodysgallen Hall & Spa

Visitors to the Bodysgallen Hall & Spa follow a private, single-track road that winds through pretty rolling grassland onto the beautifully manicured grounds that surround this ancient and historic house. Although most of Bodysgallen Hall was built in the 17th century, the oldest part of the building -- its five-story tower -- was constructed in the 1200s, while some historically sympathetic add-ons date to the Victorian era. Restored and opened in the 1980s as one three Historic House Hotels, Bodysgallen Hall & Spa was donated to the National Trust in 2008, which has immaculately maintained its period features and ambience. Aged oakwood paneling is adorned with gilt-framed oil paintings and aristocratic coats of arms, while a blend of antique furnishings with plump homey sofas, colorful rugs, and tassel-trim drapery combine to create the timeless atmosphere of a country manor that's formal without being too stuffy. Lead-lined windows offer views over the superb and peaceful gardens, complete with expertly sculpted dwarf hedges, lily-pad ponds, and croquet lawn dotted with buttercups. 

The hotel, surrounded by picturesque fields and woodlands, is about a 10-minute drive to the North Wales coast town of Llandudno -- the largest seaside resort in Wales, located on the Creuddyn peninsula overlooking the Irish Sea. Although there's little within walking distance, the hotel is conveniently positioned for exploring local castles -- Conwy, Abergele, and Caernarfon are all within a 10- to 20-minute drive. Bodysgallen's location off the A470 also means easy road access to Llandudno Junction railway station, with direct connections to Cardiff, Manchester, and London. The majestic Snowdonia National Park, offering some of the country's most spectacular walks, is also within a half hour's drive.

The hotel has 11 guest rooms located in the main building, four Principal Suites, and seven cottage suites, some with separate seating areas and small private gardens, set in clusters around the gardens and spa. Decor is traditional, with floral fabrics, antique furnishings, and patterned wallpaper. Though generally fresh and inviting, some might find it borders on dowdy. In-room amenities include flat-screen TVs, welcome trays with free mineral water and biscuits, and luxury robes and slippers. Wi-Fi is free though limited in certain spots, and there is no self-serve tea or coffee in the rooms -- cottages do have mini-fridges and hot drink facilities. Spotless, wood-floor Victorian-style bathrooms have shower/tub combos, and come with high-end Floris products.

An excellent breakfast of either continental or traditional Welsh selections is served each morning -- though it's not included in standard rates. The Dining Room offers outstanding lunch and dinner menus in elegant surroundings overlooking the gardens, and is also known as one of the finest places in the area for Sunday roasts. Dining is generally formal -- use of smartphones is strongly discouraged. Located in a restored stone farmhouse a short walk through the gardens, the hotel's spa features a 50-foot indoor swimming pool, spa bath, steam room, and sauna, as well as six treatment rooms offering a range of massage and beauty therapies. A fitness room also provides advanced cardiovascular equipment. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property, but the signal is spotty in places.