A self-catering cottage break in Cymru provides something for everyone. Whether you’re dreaming of a cosy hideaway by the coast, a peaceful countryside retreat or a character-filled base in a bustling market town, cottages give you the flexibility to settle in, spread out, and explore Wales at your own pace. Our guide will help you plan a stay, and find a cottage that truly suits your travel style.
Ways to experience a cottage holiday in Wales
A base for exploring Wales
If you love getting out and about, a cottage makes the ideal launchpad for discovering the best of Wales. Many regions offer short driving distances between the coast, countryside and lively towns, making day trips easy to plan. Wake up beside the mountains, spend the afternoon on the beach, and round it off with dinner in a characterful village pub - all from the comfort of one well-placed base.
A modern town centre property like Plas Mawr Cottage in Conwy or Sea Watch in Y Mwmbwls (Mumbles) make the perfect base for a town and coast break.
Check out our guide to cottages by the coast.
Cottages for switching off
If you're craving calm and quiet, Cymru is full of cosy cottages that encourage you to slow down. Think off-the-beaten-track lanes, stargazing Dark Skies from a hot tub, and the gentle quiet you only find in rural corners of the country. Ideal for off-peak stays, find a place with walks on your doorstep and a welcoming sofa waiting for when you return, where you can unwind without distraction.
Couples will love a characterful countryside cottage like Hen Ffermdy in Llanon. Bring your pet along to dog-friendly luxury Glanyrafon near Llanymddyfri (Llandovery), or Old Post Office Cottage in Llanddewi Skirrid. There's a wide range of gorgeous luxury cottages to inspire your stay.
Sharing space, your way
Cottages offer room to truly be together as a family, celebrate with friends, or simply a break with your favourite people. Enjoy the privacy to spread out, cook together, relax in shared living spaces, or retreat to quiet corners when you need them.
Book a large cottage, or find a location with a courtyard of cottages so you all have your own space. Many cottages welcome pets too, and options with step-free access or ground-floor bedrooms make it easier for everyone to join the adventure.
Larger properties suitable for family or group holidays include Swansea Valley Holiday Cottages - catering for two people up to 19 across a variety of historic cottages (some accessible), and the pet-friendly Ciderhouse Cottage near Trefynwy (Monmouth).
How to plan your Welsh cottage stay
- When to book
Peak seasons, especially the school holidays and summer months, fill quickly. Booking early gives you more choice of locations, prices and property features. - Travelling with pets
Many Welsh cottages warmly welcome dogs, but amenities and rules differ. Look for enclosed outdoor spaces, nearby walking routes and clear pet policies. Take a look at our pick of pet-friendly cottages in Wales. - Access considerations
Rural cottages can involve narrow lanes, uneven paths or steps. Check access details in advance if you or your fellow travellers have mobility needs. - Off-season advantages
Visiting outside peak months often means better prices and more flexibility on length of stay. Enjoy beautiful seasonal landscapes, quieter locations and a slower pace that suits restorative breaks.
Find your perfect holiday cottage in Wales
So imagine slowing down for a bit, waking up to misty hills or the sound of the sea, lighting a fire on cooler evenings, or sitting outside to watch a summer sunset. Check out our list of lovely locations below, and plan your Welsh self-catering cottage holiday today.