Bwthyn Carregwen, Capelulo

Bwthyn Carregwen is an upside-down cottage in the hills above Capelulo, minutes from Penmaenmawr and a short drive from Conwy, with the living space on the upper floor to make the most of the views down the valley. It is a strong choice for a dog: enclosed gardens front and back, a hill path starting more or less at the door, and a dog-friendly beach within walking distance.

The enclosed gardens are the practical draw, secure enough to let a dog out without supervision, and there is a garden hose for washing sand and mud off before anyone goes indoors. The climb up the hill directly behind the cottage rewards you with sea views and the wild ponies that roam this stretch of the Carneddau, and the Sychnant Pass is reachable on foot. Conwy Morfa beach, roughly twenty minutes' walk away, opens up to dogs when the tide is out and gets consistent praise for how clean and empty it is.

Two cautions. Sheep graze right up to the garden boundary and the ponies wander the lanes, so this is lead country the moment you leave the gate. Guests have also flagged that the rear patio ends in a steep drop with no railing, which is worth knowing with a boisterous dog or small children in the party. The floors are largely hard-wearing laminate, which is excellent for muddy paws though not to every dog's taste. The other recurring criticisms are the beds and sofas being firmer than expected, and a track that gets rutted after heavy rain.

The nearest pub does not take dogs, but the Gladstone about a mile away does and serves good food. With a 4.8/5 paw rating from a long run of dog-owning guests, Bwthyn Carregwen suits a couple or family with one well-behaved dog who want mountain walking, a secure garden and a beach within reach.